Wetting agents reduce surface tension to enable uniform water and chemical penetration during pretreatment, dyeing, and finishing. They are particularly important in scouring and bleaching, where complete fiber saturation ensures consistent results. However, traditional wetting agents often include ethoxylated compounds, APEOs, or high-foam surfactants that are persistent in wastewater and difficult to biodegrade. Sustainable alternatives now emphasize rapid wetting capability, low-foam profiles, and high biodegradability. Many modern formulations are based on plant-derived surfactants or synthetic blends engineered for low toxicity and minimal environmental persistence. Additionally, multifunctional wetting agents that combine dispersing or emulsifying properties support simplified chemical inventories and more efficient processing. Compliance with ZDHC MRSL, OEKO-TEX®, and regional water discharge standards is non-negotiable in many supply chains. Brands expect upstream suppliers to avoid substances of very high concern (SVHCs) and to demonstrate compatibility with sustainable processing protocols. Through B2B sourcing platforms, manufacturers can efficiently identify wetting agents that meet both performance and environmental requirements, accelerating compliance and process optimization across textile operations.