If you don’t know what polyamide fabric is, don’t worry. You’re in the right place to learn about it. In fact, you might have already worn it!
It also goes by a different name. We’ll unveil that shortly. We’ll discuss how polyamide fabric is compared with other types such as polyester.
You might also be surprised to see whether or not it’s good for your skin. We’ve worn all kinds of fabric and can tell you some of the best and the worst. The real question is: where does polyamide fabric fit there?
We’ll also discuss care instructions so you can properly handle polyamide fabric when the time comes to clean it. With that said, let’s talk more about polyamide fabric and its purposes.
What is Polyamide Fabric?
Polyamide fabric is also known as nylon. Now that you know it by its commonly known name, let’s discuss a bit of the history behind it. It was developed by DuPont in the 1930s. It was created using filaments that were long and thin.
Polyamide is also elastic. The material was first used to make stockings for women.
Because of its softness, polyamide was created to be a direct competitor of silk. It was also considered one of the cheaper alternatives to a material that was not only expensive but also lacked elasticity.
Since its creation, polyamide fabric (or nylon) has been used in various types of clothing. Now, you can find it in tights, underwear, sportswear, or even stockings. Many sportswear companies swear by it as it is believed to increase performance and comfort simultaneously.
Is Polyamide Fabric Good for the Skin?
It is said that synthetic fabrics are notorious for the skin because of the toxic chemicals believed to be used in their production. Nylon is considered to be one of them, according to a study by Stockholm University.
Even though nylon was mentioned in the study, it placed a more emphasized focus on polyester. Does it mean that you shouldn’t wear nylon at all? The jury is certainly out. But one thing is for sure that if this study’s findings are proven to be true, polyester may be out of the question for us. You might be thinking the same thing.
Speaking of polyester, let’s see how it differs from polyamide fabrics.
Polyamide Vs. polyester: Similarities and Differences
Before moving on to the chief differences, let’s talk about how polyamide and polyester are alike. For one, they are both polymers. The fibers of their fabric are long chained, and the molecules located deep into the fabric are linked to one another.
These chains are chemical bonds. In polyamides, these linkages are known as amide linkages.
Another thing the two fabrics share is that they are moisture-resistant for the most part. However, the water absorption and drying process are rather different. Polyamides can absorb water but will be slow to dry. Meanwhile, polyester can resist water and thus absorb a lesser amount. For this reason, it will dry faster.
Polyamide is considered to be very comfortable in terms of feel. On top of that, it’s soft and flexible. However, it may have the tendency to produce quite a bit of static. In terms of feel, polyester is known for being a bit rougher. However, there have been variants of the fabric that will ensure a softer feel.
In the area of durability, polyamide takes the top spot. It’s more durable and can also be stretched. Polyester is stretch resistant but can also be resistant to the formation of pilling. Even though this is considered a good thing, the benefit comes with a bit of sacrifice. That sacrifice comes in the form of aesthetics. Polyester isn’t so aesthetically pleasing. But it makes up for it in other areas.
The Care Process
The good news is that both polyamides and polyesters are easy to care for. However, they will melt at higher temperatures. The melting point for polyamides is approximately 490 degrees (F), whereas the melting point for polyester is 10 degrees warmer at 500 degrees (F).
Polyamides cannot be cleaned with solvents and thus cannot be dry-cleaned. However, they need to be washed on a cold cycle and will need to drip or air dry. The drip dry method is considered best because of the high heat dryers can produce.
Thus, polyamide can melt or burn in the dryer if the heat is too hot. However, it can handle low to medium levels of heat if the fabric is ironed. Also, you should not use bleach when cleaning this fabric. The reason for this is that it can compromise its structure. If washed often, it may get pilled.
Be sure to wash it at least once a week.
One of the things that can be perplexing is that in terms of use, polyamide fabric can be wearable for at least 2-5 years before you dispose of it. Meanwhile, it’ll take close to 40 years to decompose in a landfill.
Does this mean polyamide fabric is worth spending your money on? You be the judge in terms of that. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to consider alternative fabric choices so you can wear them as long as you like.
Conclusion
If polyamide fabric is something you are interested in purchasing, that’s up to you. It has its upsides and downsides. As a synthetic fabric, it’s proven to be wearable and more comfortable compared to others.
We like it because it stretches a bit and is actually comfortable to the touch. Sure, its time of service may be shortened. But it’s best for you to wear it as little as possible in order for it to last a long time.
Remember, polyamide fabrics have special care instructions. Make sure to read the tag before washing or drying it.
