About Nylon
Nylon is one of the strongest fibres in common use.
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Common Nylon Fabrics
Nylon can be blended with most other fibres, usually to increase its absorbency, lessen the
abrasiveness, and also increase the strength and durability to the other fibre.
Most common blends include cotton, wool, viscose rayon and acetate fibres.
Recommended Uses
See cotton, wool and silk.
Lingerie, dresses, suiting, blouses/shirts, knitwear, hosiery, children's wear, beachwear,
raincoats, gloves, tights, fur fabrics, blankets, curtaining and upholstery, carpets, ropes, nets
and tyre cords.
Properties
The handle (texture or feel) of nylon is medium to hard, but is often thought of as soft, due
to its smoothness. When nylon is against the skin, the fabric can be abrasive (depending on
quality).
Nylon has very good elasticity (stretch), and is very resilient (retaining its shape after
stretching). Because of this resiliency, wrinkles don't often occur (excepting lightweight
fabrics). Nylon can be very static.
It is a strong fibre, but when wet can lose up to 15% of its strength (not usually noticed due
to its strength). It is one of the most insulating, absorbent and durable fibres in common
use, and can also be made to repel water very well, depending on how the fabric is
constructed. It can absorb up to 7% of its weight before feeling wet, and is quick drying.
Nylon can be cool to the touch initially, but can become clammy quickly if worn when
perspiring. It has a reasonably good resistance to sunlight.
Care
When washing nylon, separate whites from colours and use cold to hot water.
Dry nylon flat, line dry or put in the dryer on a cool temperature.
Use a warm iron on the reverse side of the fabric. Use only a little steam, if necessary. You
can dryclean nylon, but avoid bleaching.