A commercial serine-type protease preparation (Alcalase) was examined as a scouring agent for cotton fabrics. Application of the enzyme induced moderate changes in the composition of fibers that were mainly associated with the removal of protein and waxes. The relationship between the compositional modifications and structural transformations, which were reflected in the crystallinity index of the bioscoured cotton fibers, was demonstrated. The protease-treated textiles displayed superior whiteness and outstanding compressional resilience but exhibited a poor hydrophilicity and dyeing capacity. One-step scouring at neutral conditions, where proteolytic activity was supported by multienzyme combinations, could generate textiles with sufficient water absorbency and advanced performance. The implementation of the appropriate scouring conditions (concentration and combination of enzymes) could form fabrics with the desired physicochemical and micromechanical properties. (C) 2009 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. J Appl Polym Sci 114: 1567-1573, 2009