Denim is a multifaceted fabric and one of the most common types of fabric in the market. It is usually associated with blue jeans and jackets. However, there are different types of denim fabrics and an understanding of the different kinds is necessary to get the best result.
This short guide will expose the best types of denim fabric, the pros and cons of each, and maintenance.
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What is Denim Fabrics: Explained
Denim fabric is 100% cotton that is rugged and durable. It is a well-built cotton warp-faced fabric in which the weft runs through two or more warp threads. This twill weaving makes a diagonal ribbing that differentiates it from cotton duck.
Denim was originally an 18th-century textile worn mostly by physical laborers because of its durability and sturdiness. But recently, people of all ages and classes have made fashionable clothes using various types of denim fabrics.
Best Types of Denim Fabric: Pros, Cons, and Maintenance
Denim is a versatile, durable heavy-weight cotton fabric, and the main raw material in making jeans. Let’s consider the best types used in our daily life. We will also consider their advantages, disadvantages, and tips on how to care for each.
1. Selvage Denim
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Selvage denim is a self-edge fabric that is traditionally loom-woven to prevent the material from unraveling. It is a high-quality handmade denim because the weaving process is more complex than regular denim.
Pros
- Best used in the seams of jeans because of its high quality.
- Unique edge-finishing that does not unwind.
- Clean and natural edges are stitched with colors like red, yellow, green, brown, etc.
Cons
- Selvage denim is very costly compared to other types of denim.
Maintenance
- Turn inside out before laundering, and wash in mild, soapy, cold water.
- Avoid using a dryer to dry it.
2. Raw Denim
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Raw denim is also called dry denim or unwashed denim. It is the first stage of denim that is unwashed or untreated. It is dark blue, stiff to the body, and long-lasting if unwashed.
Pros
- Has personalized fade patterns.
- Top-quality, durable, and customizable fabric based on one’s preference.
Cons
- Uncomfortable and stiff to wear for the first few weeks.
- The fading pattern may not go down well with everybody.
- More care is needed than other types of denim.
Maintenance
- Avoid washing or soaking raw denim for the first six months to allow for self-fading patterns.
- When necessary, turn inside out and clean the soiled area with a damp sponge or cloth.
3. Acid Wash Denim
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Acid wash denim has undergone a bleaching technique using chemicals like acid or chlorine. This process makes the denim marble-like with different patterns and color variations.
Pros
- The added chemicals make the fabric visually appealing.
- Has a unique and edgy look.
Cons
- It is not applicable in every situation and daily life.
- Fabric gets damaged, or its lifespan is shortened due to the heavy chemicals used.
Maintenance
- Avoid further chemicals when washing the denim to prevent damage.
- Wash with cold water and gently on the washer.
4. Stretch Denim
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Stretch denim is a denim fabric with infusions like lycra, elastane, or spandex to give it a stretchy quality.
Pros
- Allows for more movement, elasticity, and comfortability, and is commonly used for tight jeans.
- Great choice for an active lifestyle because it provides plenty of give.
Cons
- It may become loose over time due to constant wash and wear.
Maintenance
- Avoid regular washing to prevent it from wearing out quickly.
- High heat on stretch denim will weaken its elastic properties.
5. Organic Denim
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Organic denim is 100% organic cotton and constructed without synthetic chemicals like pesticides and fertilizers, making it eco-friendly.
Pros
- Gentle and mild on the skin because it is free from harmful chemicals.
- It permits better airflow and is comfortable to wear.
Cons
- More expensive than other types of denim because of labor-intensive and sustainable farming activities.
- Not a conventional denim fabric and scarce to find.
Maintenance
- Use mild soap in cold water and avoid vigorous scrubbing.
- Turn it inside out and iron to preserve its color and texture.
6. Poly Denim
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Poly denim is manufactured from blended yarn like polyester and cotton. The polyester fiber added to poly denim fabric makes it high in strength and durable.
Pros
- Lightweight, soft to feel, easy to wash and dry.
- More resistant to wrinkles and comfortable to wear.
Cons
- The polyester added makes it sticky to sweaty bodies, especially during hot seasons.
- The manufacturing process involving fossil fuels makes it environmentally unfriendly.
Maintenance
- Wash with cold water to avoid excessive wear and fading.
- Do not expose the fabric to high heat; air-drying is best.
- Iron at low heat to preserve its appearance and stretch quality.
7. Indigo Dyed Denim
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Indigo denim is a common type of denim fabric where the warp thread is dyed with indigo (blue dye), and the weft thread is white or left undyed.
Pros
- Unique deep blue hue that is instantly recognizable.
- Sturdy and durable because of the indigo dye used.
Cons
- New indigo denim tends to be stiff until it is softened from regular wash and wear.
- Less suitable for hot weather because it can be less breathable and heavy.
Maintenance
- Wash sparingly to preserve its color and texture.
- Turn it inside out before washing it to maintain its color.
Conclusion
Denim fabric successfully surmount barriers of gender and age as the preferred fashionable fabric for everyone. Selecting the best type of denim for your needs can be daunting, but the perfect choice lasts longer, especially when you follow the maintenance tips provided here!
And if you’re seeking a perfect option for your polyester and cotton fabrics, do not hesitate to consider Fabknitter. We are a renowned manufacturer and supplier in China with global relevance.