Fleece is among the most popular fabric used for making modern clothing, blankets, and many other accessories. Primarily, fleece is made of polyester fibers which have many advantages. In the early stages of making clothes from polyester, manufacturers faced some troubles and sorted out some disadvantages as well, but modern clothing science have eliminated most of them. Fleece in present times is one of the most desirable fabrics in clothing.
Function
Fleece is a fabric that is generally used for making blankets and throws. Fleece is also used very often for making workout clothes, outdoor clothing such as jackets, sweatshirts, scarves, and other functional and stylish attire.
Composition
Fleece is primarily a woolen-type fabric made from synthetic fibers. It is usually 100% polyester but it can also be combined with natural fibers including cotton, wool and some other synthetic fibers as well including spandex or rayon. Some manufacturers uses chemicals to make it waterproof, or by combining it with Teflon as well.
Manufacturing
With the help of modern technology, manufactures uses petroleum made material such as Terephthalic acid, Ethylene Glycol to make Fleece wear. Some manufacturers also use recycled plastic soda bottles. Once the fiber is created, it is spun into yarn which is woven and knit into fabric. Before giving it a desired length or finishing, the surface of the created fabric is brushed with wire brushes.
Advantages
Using Fleece fabric has many significant advantages. Fleece is very easy to sewn and it launder very well and easily. Because of its unique making, this fabric dies quicker than any other fabric and its water-repellent nature comes very handy for wicking sweat, moisture away from the body. This is the main reason of fleece becoming widely popular for active wear and athletic wear. Despite being extremely warm, this fabric is also very lightweight, soft and comfortable as compare to other fabrics used for making clothes. People allergic to wool can use fleece as an alternative fabric which not only is functional but stylish as well. It also offers a range of choices for colors, prints and patterns. Lastly, since this fabric can be made with recycled plastic, it is also considered as the only eco-friendly fabric used for marking apparel and accessories.
Varieties
Fleece made fabrics are available in many finishes and textures. With a soft nubby surface, Berber fleece is a flecked multicolored fabric. By curling the surface nap Sherpa and Shearling fleece, manufacturers can give it lamb's wool look. By trimming all the fibers evenly, Plush fleece provides a smooth touch.
Important Note
Fleece products are highly flammable, if left untreated. Consumers must check whether the fleece product has been treated to make flame retardant or not.
