Spandex Fabric – a popular material in the fashion industry, sports, and many other applications. This type of fabric has become an important part of modern life. In the following article, let’s find out what Spandex fabric is? The advantages and disadvantages of this Spandex fabric, shall we?
1 What is Spandex fabric?
What is Spandex fabric?
Spandex fabric, also known as Elastane, Lycra, or Elastane. This type of fabric is popular due to its high elasticity. Spandex fibers are created through the crude draw process of a long polymer chain called polyurethane. The notable feature of this fabric is its ability to stretch 5-8 times its original size.
Although it is called Spandex fabric, in reality, in the current garment industry, no product is made entirely from 100% Spandex fibers. Instead, Spandex fabric is usually blended and woven with other synthetic, semi-synthetic, or organic fibers, as Spandex fibers are very expensive.
2 Types of Spandex fabric
Cotton Spandex
Cotton Spandex
Cotton Spandex is a combination fabric that combines the advantages of both cotton and Spandex. It has high stretchability, quick moisture absorption, and creates a soft and light feeling. This fabric is often used to make shirts, t-shirts, men’s underwear, and women’s lingerie. With a smooth surface and less dirt retention, cleaning and preserving Cotton Spandex fabric becomes easier.
Poly Spandex
Poly Spandex
Poly Spandex is a fabric created by blending polyester and Spandex. This material stands out with good stretchability, high aesthetics, and excellent breathability. Poly Spandex fabric is often used to produce dresses, t-shirts, and party attire.
Len Spandex fabric
Len Spandex fabric
Len Spandex fabric is a perfect choice for cold weather due to its good stretching ability and anti-shrinking feature. This material provides a smooth and warm experience for users.
3 Advantages and disadvantages of Spandex fabric
Advantages
Disadvantages of Spandex fabric
- Poor moisture absorption: As it is often made from synthetic fibers, Spandex has low moisture absorption and sweat-wicking capabilities.
- Susceptible to chemicals and quick damage: Although it has relatively stable durability, Spandex is easily worn out by chemicals, especially from bleach.
- Yellowing after use: Due to its ease of dyeing, after a period of use, products may start to appear yellow, reducing aesthetics.
- Easy flammability and heat retention: Since Spandex does not have good heat resistance, it can easily catch fire and retain heat.
4 Applications of Spandex fabric
Applications of Spandex fabric
Spandex – a widely used fabric in the garment industry, is applied with many outstanding advantages. Spandex is often used to produce various types of clothing such as swimsuits, underwear, skinny pants, ski pants, tight-fitting pants, and comfortable sportswear.
In addition, Spandex is also used in many other products such as orthodontic braces, belts, seat covers, gloves, bed sheets, … because of its color and cost advantages.
5 How to care for garments and items made from Spandex fabric
How to care for garments and items made from Spandex fabric
Spandex is a sensitive fabric to strong chemicals, so when washing or ironing, you should avoid directly pouring chemicals onto the fabric. Instead, wash by hand with warm water and use mild detergents.
Also, Spandex is sensitive to heat, so after washing, you should avoid high-temperature impacts on clothes, limit ironing, and avoid using a dryer.
For swimsuits, to prevent clothes from being stretched due to heat or sudden changes after use, you should hand wash with normal temperature water.
Finally, you should not expose clothes directly to sunlight to preserve Spandex fabric longer and avoid damage.
With many outstanding advantages, Spandex fabric is increasingly applied in various fields. Besides, it cannot be denied that it also has notable disadvantages. To make the most of the benefits of Spandex fabric, you should understand both its advantages and disadvantages and use it appropriately.
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