3 Kinds of Fabrics Used in Disposable Apparel
Choosing the right apparel for your manufacturing or production facility can be a daunting task. That’s why the professionals at Total Source Manufacturing have put together this guide to understanding the differences in apparel fabrics, to use in understanding disposable garments. The starting point of most fabrics begins with polypropylene.
Polypropylene
Cost-effective polypropylene is a spunbound filament of a thermoplastic polymer, resulting in a lightweight, breathable fabric. It is durable for long shifts and comfortable when paired with features like a knit wrist cuff, such as in our Advantage I Isolation Gown or our Lab Coats that have a knit collar and knit wrist cuff. Polypropylene also provides a low lint fabric that helps reduce contaminants in sensitive environments.
SMS
Spunbonded-meltblown-spunbonded (SMS) fabric is made of 3 different layers laminated together. The first and third layers are made of spunbonded polypropylene while the middle layer is meltblown polypropylene.
Spunbonded polypropylene is pressed and heated, sealing the fabric. This provides protection against liquid or moisture contamination and particulate transfer.
Meltblown polypropylene is blown with high velocity air, creating filaments that are then layered into fabric. This can provide an excellent filtration layer.
Spunbonded Olefin
This type of durable fabric is made by blowing polypropylene filaments that are then bonded with heat and pressure to create a tough but lightweight fabric used in many different applications. Tyvek® is a common manufacturer of this fabric.
Polyethylene-Coated Polypropylene
This product combines two polymers to create a durable and lightweight fabric similar to Tyvek®. Found in our Advantage Plus Isolation Gowns, polyethylene-coated polypropylene provides an excellent barrier to liquids and splashes.
Polylatex
A non-woven fabric found in our shoe covers, Polylatex is made of a synthetic resin mixed in water to form a durable, lint-free, water resistant fabric. Heavily textured for better grip, these shoe covers offer comfortable ankle elastic.
Get Your Disposable Apparel Today
Is it time to order isolation gowns, coveralls, lab coats, aprons, shoe covers, sleeves, masks, hoods, bouffants, hair nets, beard nets, or surgical caps? We’re here to help you find the right fabric and the right product. Call us today @ 760-598-5599 or visit us @ Total Source Manufacturing to get your disposable garments in bulk.
