What is Fleece?

Introduction

What is fleece? This versatile fabric has become a staple in many wardrobes, especially for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking comfort in colder climates. This guide covers everything about fleece. We'll look at where it came from, what makes it unique, its different kinds, and how people use it. You'll see why so many people like fleece for all sorts of things.

What is Fleece?

It is a soft, lightweight, and warm synthetic fabric made primarily from polyester fibres. It's designed to mimic the insulating properties of natural wool while offering improved moisture-wicking capabilities and a more affordable price point. What is fleece's main appeal? Its ability to provide warmth without bulk makes it ideal for layering in cold weather.

History of Fleece

Fleece was first developed in the late 1970s by Malden Mills (now Polartec) as an alternative to wool. With its lightweight, breathable, and insulating properties, it has revolutionised outdoor clothing and quickly became a staple in both outdoor gear and fashion.

Properties of Fleece Fabric

What is fleece known for? Its unique properties make it a favourite among manufacturers and consumers alike:

1. Warmth: Excellent insulation properties
2. Lightweight: Provides warmth without heavy bulk
3. Moisture-wicking: Keeps skin dry by moving sweat away from the body
4. Quick-drying: Dries faster than many natural fabrics
5. Breathable: Allows air circulation, preventing overheating
6. Durable: Resistant to wear and tear
7. Effortless care: Machine washable and quick to dry

Types of Fleece Fabric

There are several types of fleece, each with specific characteristics:

1. Polar fleece: The most common type, known for its warmth and softness
2. Microfleece: Thinner and lighter, ideal for layering
3. Sherpa fleece: Has a textured side resembling sheep's wool
4. French terry fleece: Smooth on one side, looped on the other
5. Lycra spandex fleece: Contains elastane for stretch and recovery

How is Fleece Made?

The process of making fleece involves several steps:

1. Fibre production: Polyester fibres are created through chemical processes
2. Knitting or weaving: Fibers are formed into a base fabric
3. Brushing: The fabric is brushed to create a soft, fuzzy surface
4. Shearing: Excess fibres are trimmed for an even surface
5. Finishing: Anti-pilling treatments may be applied

When working with fleece, it's essential to use appropriate cloth-cutting tools to ensure clean edges and accurate fabric sewing patterns.

Benefits and Uses of Fleece Fabric

So, What is fleece used for? Its versatility makes it suitable for various applications:

1. Outdoor clothing: Jackets, vests, and pullovers
2. Athletic wear: Base layers and warm-up gear
3. Casual wear: Sweatshirts, pyjamas, and loungewear
4. Accessories: Hats, scarves, and gloves
5. Home textiles: Blankets, throws, and pet bedding

Care Tips for Fleece

To maintain the quality of your fleece items:

1. Wash in cold water to prevent shrinkage
2. Avoid using fabric softeners, which can reduce moisture-wicking properties
3. Air dry or tumble dry on low heat
4. Brush gently to restore softness after washing
5. Store folded to maintain shape

Comparing Fleece with Other Fabrics

What is fleece's advantage over other fabrics? Let's compare:

1. Fleece vs. Wool: Fleece is lighter, dries faster, and is generally more affordable
2. Fleece vs. Cotton: Fleece offers better insulation and moisture-wicking properties
3. Fleece vs. Down: Fleece maintains insulation when wet, unlike down

How to Choose Quality Fleece Fabric?

When selecting fleece material for clothing, consider:

1. Weight: Heavier fleece provides more warmth
2. Pile density: Denser pile offers better insulation
3. Anti-pilling finish: Reduces the formation of small balls on the surface
4. Stretch: Some fleece fabrics incorporate spandex for added flexibility

At TradeUNO, we offer various high-quality fleece fabrics suitable for multiple projects. Our expert crew can help you pick the fleece that best suits your needs, ensuring you get the best stitch material for your garments or accessories.

Conclusion

Due to its simplicity and utility, fleece has significantly altered outdoor and casual clothing. It is mostly used for warm jackets and soft blankets, and its qualities are valuable to manufacturers and do-it-yourself enthusiasts. Knowing its properties can help you choose the best fleece for your needs, emphasising its significance in textile innovation in terms of warmth, durability, and comfort.

FAQs

Is fleece better than cotton?

Fleece and cotton have different strengths. Fleece is superior for insulation and moisture-wicking, making it better for cold or active conditions. Cotton is more breathable and comfortable in mild temperatures. The selection relies on the specific use and personal preference.

Is fleece good for winter or summer?

Fleece is primarily designed for colder weather, making it excellent for winter use. Its insulating properties trap heat effectively. However, lightweight microfleece can be suitable for cool summer evenings or as a layer in air-conditioned environments. For hot weather, other breathable fabrics are generally preferred.

Is fleece waterproof?

Standard fleece is not waterproof, but it is water-resistant to some degree. It can repel light moisture but will eventually become saturated in heavy rain. Some manufacturers produce waterproof fleece by adding a water-repellent coating or laminating it with a waterproof membrane.

Is fleece OK for the skin?

Fleece is generally skin-friendly and hypoallergenic, making it suitable for most people. Its soft texture is comfortable against the skin. However, some individuals with very sensitive skin might experience irritation due to static buildup or the synthetic nature of the fabric.