What is Microfiber

Microfiber fabric is made from superfine fibers; so fine that they are 1/100th the diameter of a human hair. The tiny fibers, made of synthetic materials such as polyester and polyamides, are woven or knit in such a way that they make fabrics that are ultra-absorbent, strong, lint-free, soft and compact. The development of microfiber began in the 1950’s and 1960’s, with the first commercial introduction in the 1970’s, in the form of ultrasuede. Microfiber now sees widespread use for athletic wear, cleaning products, purses, luggage, upholstery, thermal insulation, and even basketballs.

The manufacturing process of microfiber fabric varies according to the fabric’s intended application. In some cases (such as tablecloths or upholstery), microfiber is specially made to repel liquids, while in others, its absorbent qualities are boosted. The individual fibers can be split, which makes the resulting fabric even more absorbent and suitable for picking up dust. Microfiber can be made with a fuzzy, plush feel, as seen in the ultrasuede fabrics commonly used for furniture upholstery. Microfiber takes dye well, and can be printed in rich colors and patterns.

SolEscapes has put microfiber to good use in the form of Travel Lux Microfiber Beach and Pool Towels. The excellent water-wicking qualities of microfiber mean that the towel does its job quickly, drying the body with the soft fabric. The fabric then dries quickly, reducing the chances of the towel becoming stale. Because microfiber is such a lightweight and compact fabric, it folds up very small and easily packs into a beach bag or luggage. In spite of being so packable, the towel’s size is still a generous 40” x 70” – a true large beach towel. They look great, with a beautiful sea life print in eye-catching tropical colors. The fiber content of Travel Lux Microfiber Beach and Pool Towels is 85% Polyester and 15% Polyamide.


Source: Microfiber.com, Wisegeek.com