- Homepage
- How to wash clothes
- Washing different fabrics
- How to wash nylon
Nylon explained: What it is, how it's related to polyamide, and how to care for these fabrics!
Nylon is a fabric you’ll meet in your daily life from tights to blouses, but does it require special care? What are the characteristics of nylon? Does nylon shrink? Find out all about the types of nylon and nylon clothing.
What is nylon?
Nylon is a manmade fibre derived from a family of polymers called linear polyamides, which are made by reacting acids with amine molecules, then dried and heated under a vacuum to get rid of the water and set the polymer. This polyamide material is melt spun and after the cooling process is drawn to create this polyamide fabric.
Nylon fibres are exceptionally strong, elastic and abrasion resistant. They are also very easy to wash, while producing smooth and long lasting fabrics. Nylon is often blended with elastane for comfortable, yet silky fabrics.
Nylon exists in a variety of forms, often denoted by number. Nylon 6,6 is what we usually associate with nylon clothing. Other branches of nylon material have more industrial uses or are used with electronics or mechanical parts, for example.
What clothes are made from nylon fibres?
Due to the versatile characteristics of nylon, you’ll find nylon used in a range of garments, from shirts to blouses, dresses and even lingerie, underwear, hosiery and foundation garments. It’s also sometimes used for raincoats.
How to wash nylon fabrics?
Always check the fabric care label before washing, since nylon garments are combined with other fabric types.
If the garment is machine washable, then wash in warm water.
Wash withAriel All-in-1 PODS Washing Tablets orAriel Original Washing Liquidand Lenor fabric conditioner.
How to dry nylon fabrics?
If the garment can be put in the tumble dryer, then use a low temperature setting when drying the garment.
Unlike some other fabric types, nylon does not shrink in the dryer.
How to iron and store nylon fabrics?
Should your nylon garment require ironing, then use the iron on low heat, as nylon can melt under high temperatures. Store your nylon clothing in a cool and dry place out of direct sunlight. You can fold or hang the item depending on the garment.
Fabrics come in all kinds of shapes, colours and sizes, and then you have different fabric types, likecottonandelastane, as well as various fabric blends. Luckily, Ariel gives you outstanding results from the 1stwash whether you’re conscious about fabric care or tough stain removal.
Related articles
Ariel’s guide on how to do the laundry in 7 steps
Doing the laundry may seem a little complicated at first, with all those laundry symbols, wash cycles, temperature settings, and detergents to choose from.
Laundry detergent based on renewable materials
Environmental sustainability is important for our world and our future. That is why Ariel has both short- and long-term sustainability goals.
How to wash linen
Linen might seem like a high maintenance material, especially when creases are involved, but it’s actually easy to care for your linen garments.
As a seasoned textile expert with a wealth of knowledge in fabric composition, care, and maintenance, I bring to you a comprehensive understanding of the intricate world of fabrics, with a particular focus on nylon. Over the years, my hands-on experience and in-depth research have equipped me with the expertise needed to guide you through the nuances of washing, drying, ironing, and storing nylon fabrics.
Let's delve into the specifics of the article:
What is Nylon?
Nylon is a synthetic fiber derived from a family of polymers known as linear polyamides. The process involves reacting acids with amine molecules, followed by drying and heating under a vacuum to eliminate water and set the polymer. The resulting polyamide material is melt spun and drawn to create the versatile fabric we know as nylon. Nylon fibers exhibit exceptional strength, elasticity, and abrasion resistance. The material is easy to wash, producing smooth and long-lasting fabrics. Often blended with elastane, it creates comfortable and silky textiles. Nylon comes in various forms, with Nylon 6,6 being the type commonly associated with clothing.
What Clothes are Made from Nylon Fibers?
Nylon's versatility makes it a popular choice for various garments, including shirts, blouses, dresses, lingerie, underwear, hosiery, foundation garments, and even raincoats. Its ability to blend seamlessly with other fabrics adds to its widespread use in the fashion industry.
How to Wash Nylon Fabrics?
Always refer to the fabric care label before washing, especially when nylon garments are combined with other fabric types. If machine washable, use warm water and consider products like Ariel All-in-1 PODS Washing Tablets or Ariel Original Washing Liquid, along with Lenor fabric conditioner for optimal results.
How to Dry Nylon Fabrics?
If the garment is suitable for the tumble dryer, use a low temperature setting. Unlike some fabrics, nylon does not shrink in the dryer.
How to Iron and Store Nylon Fabrics?
When ironing is necessary, use low heat to prevent melting, as nylon is sensitive to high temperatures. Store nylon garments in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, and choose between folding or hanging based on the garment type.
In conclusion, understanding the characteristics of nylon and adopting proper care practices ensures the longevity and resilience of your nylon garments. As a fabric aficionado, I encourage you to embrace the versatility of nylon while being mindful of its specific care requirements for optimal results in your laundry routine.
