With a finesses greater than that of even a strand of silk, microfiber is a popular material used in the construction of many diverse products. Generally, most common microfibers are a mix of polyamides, polyesters, and nylon – these are typically put together to create a strand which, when analyzed closely enough, appears to be shaped like a star.
After this strand is formed, they are then separated into ultra-fine single fibers (in a process involving chemicals and heat), before being woven together into the final product, whatever this may be.
The number of splits affects the quality of the microfiber, and the between fibers capture dirt, debris, and moisture. With these qualities, microfiber is suited to a wide variety of applications – some you may not expect!
1: Creating More Comfortable Cycling Jerseys
As anyone who cycles for long distances knows, breathable clothing increases comfort-levels and reduces the build-up of moisture. Many cycling jerseys are made with microfiber fabrics, which absorb sweat and move it to the jersey’s exterior, where it evaporates. This prevents the wearer’s body from becoming too cold from their own moisture, while still keeping them cool.
Microfiber also boasts elastic properties, making it even better-suited to cycling jerseys: the more freedom of movement a cyclist has, the more comfortable they will be. This is particularly effective for long journeys, as part of a leisurely ride or a daily commute – wearing the right gear can greatly improve the sense of enjoyment a cyclist gets from their time in the saddle.
A softer, finer material also reduces the risk of chafing and abrasions.
2: A More Durable, Easy-Clean Handbag
When most people think of handbags, microfiber is unlikely to be the material they might typically associate with them – suede, leather, and vinyl are some of the most common choices.
However, microfiber is used to make many handbags, for the advantages it offers over alternative materials:
- a microfiber handbag will last longer than leather and suede
- microfiber is easier to clean if spillages occur
- microfiber can also be washed in a machine
- microfiber is also lightweight
This diversity and durability lends itself perfectly to the wide range of tastes, and the daily use, handbags must cater for.
3: Building Stronger, Water-Resistant Backpacks
Microfiber is also used in backpacks for the same reasons listed above. When hiking, running, or cycling, a lightweight backpack is advantageous, and the ability to toss it into the washing machine when it becomes dirty is a key benefit.
Microfiber can also be printed with designs, embroidered, or embossed: this enables brands to create backpacks featuring unique patterns, logos, graphics, and more. Due to microfiber’s water-repellent qualities, microfiber backpacks are ideal for all weathers, and can handle significant wear and tear.
4: Making a New Breed of Basketball
Anyone familiar with basketball might well assume balls are all made of rubber or leather. While this is true in most cases, microfiber is becoming more and more popular in their construction.
Basketballs are used in sports halls, outdoor courts, backyards, and arenas across the world, by casual & expert players alike. If the standard design of basketballs has served users so well over the years, what could newer microfiber-based balls offer?
The NBA introduced synthetic basketballs during the 2006-07 season, though leather ones were used again later that year. One reason for the change to microfiber was the cost: producing standard basketballs is more expensive than making those with synthetic materials; another is their versatility – microfiber-made balls can be used indoor or outdoor without any negative impact.
According to the NBA itself, the microfiber composite used in these balls offers moisture management for a superior grip and feel over alternative materials. They also negate the need to allow break-in time.
5: Helping to Improve Cleaning Materials
Microfiber’s characteristics include softness, durability, water-resistance, filtering, and absorption: these qualities make it ideal for cleaning. For years, cleaning on a large scale (such as in a hospital or medical facility, in which outstanding hygiene is paramount) relied on a heavy use of chemicals.
Today, though, hospitals, as well as general businesses, understand the high costs and effort associated with this: now, a chemical-free, water and energy-efficient approach to cleaning is demanded. Microfiber equipment has helped to revolutionize cleaning, especially in medical environments, where budgets and time often work against the janitors’ teams.
As microfiber mops demand less water for cleaning floors (around 10-20 times less than cotton mops), the risk of slippages is reduced greatly, posing less threat to personal safety than traditional apparatuses; fewer (or no) injuries equates to minimal danger of expensive lawsuits for hospitals and businesses.
As you can see, microfiber is a powerful material in today’s world, bringing affordability, durability, and safety to a wide range of applications. Businesses, hospitals, clinics, schools, and more can all benefit greatly by introducing microfiber into their day-to-day operations.
Kyle McManus is a freelance writer based in the UK. This article was prepared on behalf of Texas Microfiber.
