What is Fleece Fabric: Types, Benefits, Properties and Much More

Fleece fabric is a soft and warm material that is popular in recent years. It is used in various industries, including fashion, outdoor activities, and home décor. 

Fleece fabric originated in the 1970s as a synthetic alternative to wool. Over time, fleece fabric has evolved and become a popular choice due to its softness, warmth, and moisture-wicking properties. Notable advancements in fleece fabric production include the introduction of recycled and eco-friendly materials.

What is fleece fabric?

Fleece fabric is a soft and warm material that is used in clothing, blankets, and home decor. It is made from synthetic materials, such as polyester, and is similar in texture to wool. Fleece fabric is popular because it is affordable, lightweight, and easy to care for.

Types of fleece fabrics

 

Types	Description
Polar Fleece	A thick and warm type of fleece that is commonly used for outdoor activities such as hiking and camping. It has a fluffy texture and is often used for jackets and blankets.
Microfleece	A thin and lightweight type of fleece that is popular in the fashion industry. It has a smooth texture and is often used for activewear and layering pieces.
Berber Fleece	A type of fleece that has a nubby texture and resembles sheepskin. It is often used for blankets and home decor.
Sherpa Fleece	A type of fleece that has a fuzzy texture and resembles wool. It is often used for jackets and boots.
Sweater Fleece	A type of fleece that has a knit-like texture and is often used for sweaters and other knitwear. It is known for its durability and warmth.
Coral Fleece	A type of fleece that has a plush texture and is commonly used for blankets and robes. It is known for its softness and warmth.

 

Unique Properties of Fleece Fabric

 

Properties	Description
Softness	Fleece fabric is known for its soft and plush texture. It is gentle on the skin and provides a comfortable and cozy feel.
Warmth	Fleece fabric is an excellent insulator and is known for its warmth. It traps heat close to the body, making it a popular choice for cold weather clothing and blankets.
Moisture-wicking	Fleece fabric has excellent moisture-wicking properties, which means it can pull sweat away from the skin and keep you dry. This makes it an ideal choice for activewear and outdoor activities.
Breathability	Despite its warmth, fleece fabric is also breathable. It allows air to circulate, preventing overheating and sweat buildup.
Durability	Fleece fabric is highly durable and can withstand wear and tear. It is resistant to pilling, fading, and shrinking, making it an excellent choice for long-lasting clothing and home decor.

 

Benefits of fleece fabric 

• Affordable - Fleece fabric is often affordable compared to other fabrics, making it accessible to a wide range of people.
• Versatile - Fleece fabric can be used for a wide range of clothing and home decor items, making it a versatile choice
• Easy to Care - Fleece fabric is easy to care for and can be machine-washed and dried without losing its shape or texture.
• Lightweight - Fleece fabric is lightweight, making it easy to wear and use in a variety of situations. It's great for layering and travel, as it won't add extra weight to your clothing or bedding.
• Quick-Drying - Fleece fabric has excellent moisture-wicking properties, which means it dries quickly. This makes it ideal for outdoor activities or sweaty workouts where you want to stay dry and comfortable.
• Non-Allergenic - Fleece fabric is hypoallergenic, which means it's unlikely to cause an allergic reaction. This makes it a great choice for people with sensitive skin or allergies.
• Environmentally-Friendly - Fleece fabric can be made from recycled plastic bottles, which helps reduce waste and promotes sustainability.
• UV Protection - Fleece fabric can offer some UV protection, which is especially important for outdoor activities or spending time in the sun.

Caring for Fleece Fabric  

• Machine Wash - Fleece fabric can be washed in a washing machine using a mild detergent and cold water. Avoid using fabric softeners as they can damage the fabric's moisture-wicking properties.
• Tumble Dry Low - After washing, fleece fabric can be dried in a dryer on low heat. Avoid using high heat, as it can damage the fabric.
• Do Not Iron - Fleece fabric should not be ironed, as high heat can melt the fibers and damage the fabric's texture.
• Avoid Bleach - Bleach should not be used on fleece fabric, as it can damage the fibers and cause discoloration.
• Spot Clean Stains - If there are any stains on the fleece fabric, spot clean them using a mild detergent and cold water. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it can damage the fabric.
• Store Carefully - When storing fleece fabric, make sure it's clean and dry. Avoid storing it in direct sunlight or near heat sources, as this can damage the fabric's texture and colour.

Fleece Fabric Fashion

Fleece fabric is not just used for its practical benefits, it has also become popular in the fashion industry. Many fashion designers have taken fleece fabric into their collections. It can be used to create a variety of fashionable clothing items, including jackets, vests, hoodies, sweatshirts, and even dresses. It's available in different colors, patterns, and textures, making it a versatile fabric that can be used for a variety of styles.

One popular trend is the "fleece jacket," which is a comfortable and stylish option for cooler weather. Fleece jackets come in different styles, from classic zip-up jackets to oversized styles with trendy details. They are often paired with leggings or jeans for a casual yet fashionable look.

Another trend is the use of fleece fabric in athleisure wear, which is clothing that combines athletic and leisure styles. Many athleisure wear brands use fleece fabric in their clothing items, such as sweatpants, joggers, and sweatshirts.

Fleece fabric can also be used to create accessories, such as hats, scarves, and gloves. These items not only look fashionable but also provide warmth and comfort during colder months.

Sustainability of Fleece Fabric

Fleece fabric has an environmental impact due to its synthetic materials. However, the industry is working towards sustainability by using recycled and eco-friendly materials. Consumers can support sustainable fleece fabric production by choosing recycled or eco-friendly materials and properly disposing of old fleece items.

Final Word

Fleece fabric is a popular and versatile material used in various industries. It has unique properties, benefits, and care requirements that make it an ideal choice for outdoor activities, fashion, and home décor. As consumers, we can support sustainable fleece fabric production and incorporate it into our daily lives. 

FAQ:

Is fleece fabric warm?

Yes, fleece fabric is warm and soft, making it ideal for outdoor activities and cold weather.

Where can you buy fleece fabric?

Fleece fabric is available at Sahni Fabrics at affordable prices

How to dye fleece fabric?

To dye fleece fabric, it is essential to use a dye specifically designed for synthetic materials. Follow the dye manufacturer's instructions and ensure proper ventilation during the dyeing process.