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You’ve seen it everywhere: from furniture, tea towels and accessories to sportswear or towels; microfibre is part of our day to day, sometimes even without us noticing … But do you really know what microfibre is? Today we present you one of the most versatile fibres in the textile world. Learn about the advantages of microfibre.

Microfibre is an ultra-fine synthetic fibre, with a diameter of half a strand of natural silk (so you get the idea … about 100 times thinner than a human hair!). To be exact, the microfibre is a nonwoven fabric, that is, a type of textile produced forming networks of fibres joined by mechanical, thermal and chemical techniques; without the need to be woven or turned into a thread during its production. The properties of the microfibre depend mainly on the fibres that compose it.

If you want to purchase a convertible dress made with premium quality microfibre you can adapt to your needs, here at Lucy and Loo you will find it!

What is Microfibre made of?

One of the most common synthetic materials in the composition of the microfibre is polyester, although nylon and other types of polyamides are also very common depending on the final use that will be given to the textile. It may seem that the fabric is not very ecological compared to natural fabrics, but it should be mentioned that during its production process no type of pesticide is used. In addition, in the processes of stamping, water is not required, so it involves less waste than you need for example cotton, where copious amounts of water are used to dye it.

Microfibre suppliers alter and combine various types, thicknesses, lengths and fibre paths to create the different types of microfibre textiles, depending on the functionality that you want to give the final product. For example, using according to what types of fibres, it can become an ultra-absorbent or extra-soft textile.

What is Microfibre used for?

Thanks to the innumerable properties that the microfibre can offer according to the diverse types of fibres that compose it, this nonwoven fabric is perfect for a wide range of possibilities.

One of the most common uses of microfibre is for cleaning products, especially mops and cloths for cleaning windows and floors. This is due to the great capacity it has to absorb water (up to 7 times more than its own weight!) And also, to the ease of trapping bacteria on dirty surfaces. The fibres are produced with a special path with small hooks with which the dust and liquids are retained in the tissue, preventing the risk that germs and diseases can appear in kitchens, hospitals and any place that needs to be especially clean. The small fibres that make up the microfiber are so tiny that they are anti-abrasive, avoiding scratching and damaging the surfaces on which it is cleaned, even using cleaning products.

On the other hand, its outstanding absorbent nature makes the microfibre a very popular option for sportswear. The nature of the fabric repels the humidity of the body, keeping it cool and dry thanks to its breathable factor. In addition, the type of elastic microfiber used in this type of garments allows them to adapt perfectly to any movement, offering total comfort and durability.

Unlike absorbent microfibres, when this fabric is used for clothing or upholstery, the fibres do not have these hooks since they do not need to have absorbent character for that purpose, but their priority is to be soft and comfortable. With them you can create clothes of all kinds, such as coats and skirts or even as imitation fabric of natural suede leather; factor that makes it an economical and popular choice, also as a fabric for upholstery.

Origins of the Microfibre

Although microfibre is a common fabric that we use practically every day, few people know 100% how this product was developed. Its first production took place in 1950, although it was not found useful to this type of fabric at first.

Among the different curiosities that hide the origins of the microfibre, it is worth mentioning that it was neither more nor less than the Japanese who managed to make one of the most promising prototypes in the 1960s and also the first ones to produce women’s swimsuits with ultra-textile. Fine in 1970. However, it was a total failure, because the swimsuits absorbed the water and became too heavy a garment.

The Europeans learned from that mistake and in 1990, the microfiber began to be commercialized in the European market, being Rubbermaid the first important brand of this type of fabric, in 2007.

Types of microfibre

There are two types of microfibre according to the layout that is applied in the fibres of the same, dividing them between separate or flat fibres; depending on how the fibres of the textile have been joined to create an excellent product.

In different microfiber textiles, the fibres are separated during the production process, increasing the surface of the fabric and offering greater water absorbency. Due to its thousands of microscopic loops that are created by separating fibres, textiles of this type are perfect for trapping dirt without damaging or scratching the surface where they are used.

On the other hand, in flat microfiber textiles, functionality ceases to be related to the ability to trap dirt or to create sportswear, since they do not have the same ability to absorb moisture. To be able to recognise if a microfibre fabric is separated or flat, you just have to run your hand over the surface: if it is a separate microfibre, the fabric will be much less slippery on the skin.

Advantages of wearing our microfibre dresses

  • Non-abrasive
  • Hygienic
  • Durable
  • Soft to the touch
  • It can be treated with anti-bacteria chemicals
  • Light
  • Repels moisture
  • Absorbent
  • Resistant
  • It does not leave residues when wearing it

When you choose one of our dresses at Lucy and Loo, you are not buying one model alone but many. In only a few steps you can take your convertible dress and make it look like a new one.