Microfiber
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Microfiber or Microfibre is fiber with strands less than one denier. Fabrics made with microfibers are exceptionally soft and hold their shape well. They are also used for some cleaning applications, because of their exceptional ability to absorb oils.
[edit] Functional uses
Microfiber performance apparel has become a very popular alternative to cotton apparel for athletic wear, such as a cycling jersey, because the microfiber material wicks moisture away from the body, keeping the athlete cool and dry.
Microfiber is also widely used by car detailers to handle such tasks as removing wax, quick detailing, cleaning interior, cleaning glass, as well as drying. Due to its fine fibers which leave no lint or dust, microfiber is a popular choice of towel for avid car detailers and enthusiasts. Chamois leather is also used.
Care should be exercised when using Microfiber for cleaning of sensitive surfaces. Microfiber by nature accumulates dust, debris, and particles inside its material. Sensitive surfaces can easily be damaged by Microfiber cloths. A solution is to wash and dry microfiber cloth after each use, care should be taken to use prescribed washing and drying methods to ensure proper handling. Microfiber cloths which are not washed and dried carefully and strictly according to washing instructions will lose their effectiveness and become more dangerous in cleaning sensitive surfaces (such as all high tech coated surfaces e.g. CRT, LCD, and plasma screens).
Microfibers used in table cloths, furniture, and car interiors are constructed to repel liquids and consequently are difficult to stain. Microfiber table cloths will bead liquids until they are removed, usually advertised showing red wine on a white table cloth that wipes clean with a paper towel. Microfiber is also used to clean mop heads.
Microfiber underwear have been said to cause problems with yeast infections for some women.[citation needed]
Microfiber textiles tend to be flammable and emit toxic gases when burning. Microfibers are made with synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon, which are made from petrochemicals. Microfibers are not made from a renewable resource and they are not biodegradable.
