If you're serious about your outdoor furniture, you'll be interested in olefin fabric. While cotton is the world's most popular fabric with over 29 million tons produced yearly, it's not the best choice for every product. Cotton is a poor choice for outdoor, industrial, or heavy-duty use because it's not stain- or water-resistant without byproducts and isn't durable. Fabrics like nylon and polyester are better choices, but olefin beats them in durability, stain and water resistance, and comfort. While widely used, few know what it is. This guide explains what olefin is, how it's produced, and why it's the superior choice. That's why we're using it in a variety of products. Keep reading to learn more!
What Is Olefin Fabric?
Olefin is a synthetic fabric derived from ethylene and propylene, with propylene being the primary source. See how olefin compares to Sunbrella fabric - olefin vs sunbrella.
The History of Olefin Fabric
Propylene, the primary chemical used to produce olefin, is a byproduct of oil production. Originally burnt off, this chemical found a new use in the mid-1900s. Olefin fabric was first created in Italy in 1957. Because the production process is simple and doesn't require much machinery or tech, its use quickly spread. Smaller companies could produce it, aiding its uptake in the industrial world. Production of olefin began in the United States just three years later.
How Is Olefin Produced?
The process to produce olefin is a far cry from wool or cotton. Because olefin is derived from chemicals, producing it involves a complicated chemical process. First, the chemicals, including propylene and ethylene, are melted down at 110-135 degrees Celsius. Once melted, they are fed through a spinneret, a large device similar to a showerhead with small holes. The melted chemicals are forced through, forming long fibers that are then allowed to dry. Once dry, they can be woven into fabric for products like cushions and pillows. Before olefin can be used, it needs to be dyed. Olefin fabric is very tough to dye once woven. Instead, the chemicals are dyed long before they are made into fibers using a solution dye added directly to the chemicals before or during melting.
Benefits of Olefin Fabric
Since its invention, olefin fabric has seen widespread use due to its easy production and benefits. A few benefits of olefin include:
It's the Eco-Friendly Choice
One of the biggest benefits of olefin is how eco-friendly it is. Compared to cotton or wool, the chemical process may sound like the furthest thing from eco-friendly. But the production process involves very little byproduct, meaning the ingredients are completely used. Nothing needs to be thrown away, recycled, or processed. Olefin is also reusable. Once a product is no longer needed, it can be broken down to its original fibers, which can then be rewoven to create new olefin fabric. Olefin fibers can be recycled and re-extruded up to 10 times before they are no longer usable.
Incredible Strength
The thick weave and strength of the chemical fibers allow olefin to be incredibly durable. Compared to weaker natural fabrics or those with a loose weave, olefin can be used to create products that need to be tough, including outdoor rugs, automotive interior fabrics, and wall coverings. The strength of olefin fabric also means that the products can hold up to years of use, making it a great choice for products like outdoor bean bag chairs or patio cushions, especially in hotel environments.
It's Water-Resistant
Because the fibers are synthetic, they are incredibly moisture resistant. They repel and wick moisture, causing droplets to pool and sit on the top of the fabric rather than seeping in. This pushes water to the outside of cushions and pillows, rather than being drawn into the interior. Because olefin fabric wicks moisture, it also dries very quickly when wet. It's also ideal for use around pools, as it is resistant to the effects that chlorine has on other fabrics.
Abrasion Resistant
Another side effect of the strength of olefin fabric is that it is resistant to abrasions and wear, meaning it won't easily puncture or wear out in high-use spots.
It's Resistant to Mould and Mildew
As mentioned above, olefin wicks moisture away, preventing water and other liquids from reaching the interior of pillows or cushions. Because olefin fabric dries very quickly, water doesn't have a chance to sit on the fabric for an extended period. Both of these factors make olefin fabric resistant to mould and mildew. Cotton and many other natural fabrics hold onto moisture, allowing mould or mildew to form if not properly dried. Olefin eliminates this issue, making it ideal for use on products that may come into contact with water or moisture.
It's Stain Resistant
In the same way that liquids are wicked away from the surface, olefin fabric also repels stains. Even tough stains, like wine or oil, can often be cleaned away with ease.
Colour and Patterns Won't Fade
Olefin fabrics are made to be heavy-duty and durable, as well as resistant to threats like mould, mildew, and moisture. As mentioned previously, olefin is dyed while still in the production stage, with the solution dye added to the chemicals before or during the melting process. This locks in colours. Once dyed and finished, the olefin fibers can be woven to create patterns. Whether you choose a solid colored product or a pattern, you'll get a fabric that won't dull or fade over time, staying sharp and bright for years to come, even in direct sunlight.
Easy to Clean
Because stains don't stick and water runs right off, olefin is very easy to clean, making it ideal for use in automobile interiors or on outdoor furniture. The only exception is oil-based stains, which may be difficult to clean. Find out how to clean olefin fabric.
No Static-Charge
This isn't a benefit that most consider, but if you hate static cling, you'll love olefin. Olefin fabric does not transmit static charge.
What is Olefin Fabric Used for?
The many benefits of olefin mean that is used for a wide variety of purposes. One popular use in outdoor furniture, including outdoor patio furniture cushions, outdoor rugs, outdoor bean bag chairs, and throw pillows. The fabric's water resistance, stain resistance, and fade resistance mean that it can stand up to rain, dirt, and sunlight over time. Another popular use is in automotive interiors. The fabric won't puncture or wear easily, stains won't stick, and your seats will be easy to clean. Upholstery and wall-coverings can also be made from olefin. The patterns and colours won't fade in the light or wear in spots where people sit or frequently brush against them. Olefin is also used for a variety of industrial purposes, including use for filters, bags, and geotextiles.
What to Look for in an Olefin Fabric
Not all olefin fabrics are created equal. If you want to enjoy the many benefits, choose a high-quality product. When shopping, choose items with a tight weave. A loose weave may negate some of the fabric's benefits, like strength. Besides a tight weave, fabric that has been properly dyed is also a must to ensure that it doesn't fade over time. Another thing to consider is whether it is designed for outdoor use. Basic olefin fabric on its own is not designed for use outdoors, meaning bright colours and punchy patterns may quickly fade. However, olefin is incredibly popular for outdoor use because it is so easy to clean, lightweight, and resistant to bugs and mildew. For that reason, manufacturers have engineered new olefin fabric that is resistant to sunlight. Ensure that you're choosing the right olefin fabric for your outdoor patio cushions, throw pillows, curtains, and other fabric products. Check the label or ask the manufacturer if the fabric is designed for outdoor use and is resistant to fading in the sun. The olefin fabric we use is more fade resistant than Sunbrella and will last for five years in sunlight. Beware of imitation products using Sunproof Olefin. Sunproof Olefin is a cheap inferior fabric that usually tears within 12 months.
Caring for Olefin Fabric
While olefin fabric is resistant to moisture, stains, mould, punctures, and more, that doesn't mean that it is completely maintenance-free. Olefin is great for use in many different environments, but it is also heat sensitive. Avoid exposing your fabric to extremely high temperatures or else it may melt. Most households won't run into this issue very often, but it is something to consider when olefin is used in industrial environments. If you need to iron your olefin fabric, set it on the lowest temperature setting. If you need to wash your olefin and dry it afterwards, set your dryer to tumble dry with gentle or no heat. If you can, it's best to hang the fabric to dry instead.
Choosing Your Olefin Products
Olefin is a great choice for everything from outdoor bean bags to automotive interiors. Durable and long-lasting, it will help you create bright, beautiful lounge spaces that you'll enjoy for years to come. Now that you know the best fabric to use, it's time to learn the other factors you'll want to consider when choosing products. Check out this post next to learn what you need to consider when choosing outdoor cushions.