Terry Cloth Fabric Manufacturers

Industry Knowledge

How is terry cloth fabric constructed to achieve its looped texture?

Terry cloth fabric achieves its looped texture through a weaving process that involves the interlocking of warp and weft yarns, creating loops on the surface of the fabric. The loops are responsible for the fabric's absorbent properties and plush feel. Here's a more detailed explanation of how terry cloth fabric is constructed to achieve its looped texture:

1. Warp and Weft Yarns:

Terry cloth fabric is woven using two sets of yarns: warp yarns and weft yarns. The warp yarns run vertically along the length of the fabric, while the weft yarns run horizontally across the width of the fabric.

2. Extra Yarns:

In the weaving process, extra yarns are introduced to create the loops. These extra yarns can be either warp yarns or weft yarns, depending on the specific weaving technique used.

3. Pile Warp or Pile Weft:

There are two main methods to create the looped texture in terry cloth fabric:

Pile Warp Method: In this method, additional warp yarns (pile warp) are inserted along with the regular warp yarns. These pile warp yarns are woven in a way that creates loops on the surface of the fabric.

Pile Weft Method: In this method, additional weft yarns (pile weft) are introduced during the weaving process. These pile weft yarns are woven over and under the regular weft yarns, forming loops as they are pulled to the fabric's surface.

4. Loop Formation:

As the weaving progresses, the pile warp or pile weft yarns are woven in a specific pattern to create loops. These loops are formed by floating the extra yarns over several regular yarns before they are pulled back to the surface, creating a looped structure.

5. Cutting (Optional):

After weaving, the fabric may undergo an additional step called "shearing." In this step, the loops on one or both sides of the fabric are cut to a consistent height. This creates a smoother surface known as "velour terry" while retaining the fabric's absorbent properties.

6. Finishing Processes:

The woven terry cloth fabric undergoes various finishing processes, including washing, dyeing, and heat-setting, to set the loops and improve the fabric's overall appearance, softness, and durability.

7. Quality Control:

Throughout the weaving and finishing processes, quality control measures are taken to ensure that the loops are uniform in size, evenly spaced, and securely anchored to the fabric.

The combination of the weaving technique, the introduction of extra yarns, and the looping process results in the characteristic looped texture of terry cloth fabric. This unique texture is responsible for the fabric's exceptional absorbency and makes it a popular choice for products like towels, bathrobes, and other items that require moisture-wicking properties.

What material or process does the water absorption of Terry Cloth Fabric come from?

The water absorption of terry cloth fabric primarily comes from its unique looped structure and the specific fibers used in its construction. Both factors contribute to the fabric's exceptional absorbent properties. Here's how these elements work together to create the fabric's water absorption capabilities:

1. Looped Structure:

The looped texture of terry cloth fabric plays a crucial role in its water absorption. The loops on the fabric's surface create a larger surface area with plenty of spaces for water to be trapped and held. When the fabric comes into contact with water, the loops absorb and retain the moisture, effectively wicking it away from the skin or surface.

2. Capillary Action:

Capillary action is the phenomenon by which liquids are drawn into small spaces due to the interaction between liquid molecules and the surface of the material. The looped structure of terry cloth fabric enhances capillary action, allowing water to be drawn into the loops and held there.

3. Fiber Choice:

The choice of fibers used in terry cloth fabric also contributes to its absorbency. Natural fibers like cotton are highly absorbent by nature, as they have the ability to absorb and retain moisture. Cotton fibers have a high surface area and are hydrophilic, meaning they have an affinity for water.

4. Yarn Density and Fabric Weight:

The density of loops and the fabric's weight also influence its absorbency. Fabrics with a higher density of loops and a heavier weight tend to be more absorbent, as they can hold more water due to the larger number of loops present.

5. Pile Height:

The height of the loops, also known as the "pile height," affects the fabric's water absorption. Longer loops can hold more water and allow for better moisture retention.

6. Construction Quality:

The quality of the weaving process, including the uniformity of loop formation and their secure attachment to the fabric, also affects the fabric's absorbency. Well-constructed terry cloth fabric with consistent loop patterns tends to have better water absorption properties.