Dan Eisen: Microfiber garments can be washed
Source: Vero Beach Press-Journal (subscription) (Original Article)
When DuPont came out with its polyester microfiber called micromattique, I tested it and issued a technical report on the cleaning serviceability. Microfiber is an important development in fiber technology. Continuous filament fibers emerge from a spinneret thinner than the fibers of natural silk. This allows the manufacturer to manufacture high-fashion fabrics that look like natural silk but without the cost.
I have found that many fabric experts find it difficult to distinguish a microfiber polyester from natural silk. Microfiber can be made of man-made and synthetic fibers including polyester, nylon, acrylic and rayon. Polyester is the most common microfiber used.
Microfibers are used in high-fashion clothes including suits, jackets, blouses, dresses, and evening and wedding gowns. The fabric can be constructed as a satin, taffeta, knit, velvet and suede-like fabric. It also is used commonly for furniture covering.
PROBLEMS
Many manufacturers mislabel high-fashion garments as microfiber. Even though the garment may be washable, they do not want a high-fashion garment labeled as washable. The label may state:
Dry-clean only
Spot clean only
Do not dry-clean. Do not wash.
High-styled microfiber garments with unserviceable trimming may be mislabeled as a dry-clean only garment. All microfiber fabrics made of polyester, acrylic and nylon can be hand washed, providing the lining or trimming also is washable. Professional dry cleaners wet-clean many evening gowns with labels that say dry-clean only. Furniture covers made of polyester microfiber can be spot-cleaned with a mild detergent and water.
WASHING PROCEDURES
For microfiber fabrics of polyester, nylon and acrylic, put knits and fragile garments in a net bag. Use a gentle cycle with warm water and a mild detergent.
Use a two-minute drying cycle on a warm setting.
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For fragile polyester microfibers, either …continue reading