PERFORMANCE FABRICS: Textile Tips from the Experts at Fiber-Seal
Often when you are working on a project, there are so many elements that you must consider it is difficult to be an expert in everything. At Fiber-Seal, we are textile experts and are here to support you. Check-in with us when you are selecting fabrics and carpeting for help with cleanability, as we provide maintenance to thousands of clients.
Let's talk about PERFORMANCE FABRICS to help with your selection process.
✓ WHAT ARE PERFORMANCE FABRICS?
The term "performance" fabrics is mistakenly thought to describe one type of fabric. In fact, the types of fabric that fall into this category are many and varied. It is a very broad term that encompasses fabrics that offer some degree of resistance to any or all of the following: staining, fading, microbial growth, and abrasion/wear.
✓ CLEANABILITY
At Fiber-Seal, we know that no fabric is perfect. Performance fabrics have their strengths, but none are bulletproof. For example, stains such as lipstick, crayon, ballpoint pen, and oily foods are not easily wiped up. They need to be removed with professional care.
Pre-testing must always be performed before cleaning to check for potential problems.
✓ FIBER CONTENT
Performance fabrics can be made using a wide variety of different fibers. Some performance fabrics are made solely with synthetic fibers such as acrylic, olefin, and nylon. Others are made with a blend of synthetic and natural fibers. Those that are made with a blend will not be as fade-resistant or cleanable as the 100% Solution Dyed fibers.
RECOMMENDATIONS WHEN SELECTING PERFORMANCE TEXTILES:
Always look at the fiber content. The mere word "performance" does not tell the entire story of the fabric.
No performance fabric comes with spot cleaning service - spot cleaning fabric and carpets can be tricky depending on the fiber content and the stain.
For more comprehensive information - see our TEXTILE TIP (Print and keep for reference).
Don't hesitate to contact us for questions as you are making your selections; we can advise on the cleanability of a fabric. We are also happy to protect the samples that you are considering.