Many people believe that workwear fabric is an easy decision. All you need to do is choose the material that will be most comfortable for your employees, right? Wrong! It’s not as simple as it seems. There are many different types of materials and each has its own unique properties which should be taken into consideration before making a final decision.

For example, cotton is one of the oldest fabrics there are because it was first used by ancient civilizations like Egypt and Greece; but this material can shrink or stretch after washing which makes it less desirable for workwear fabric. Polyester, on the other hand, doesn’t shrink but it does fade over time so if longevity is important then polyester may not be ideal either. This just goes to show how important it is to choose the right fabric for your business.

Differences between workwear fabrics?

The different fabrics are what they’re made of, either natural fibers or man-made synthetic ones. Synthetic worked wear materials like polyester and nylon are extremely durable because they can withstand a lot of damage and they often have a high abrasion resistance. These fabrics, however, do not absorb moisture so if your employees work in warm areas these could be harmful to their health.

different kinds of fabrics

Natural fibers on the other hand are more desirable because they can still be used even if they get wet. However, some natural fabric materials like cotton and wool can shrink or stretch which means you want to purchase clothing and accessories made from these fabrics in the right size.

When it comes to safety clothing, there are a few popular types of fabric that are often used. These fabrics have been specifically chosen because they meet certain safety standards and offer a range of benefits for the wearer. Some of the most common fabrics used in safety clothing workwear include:

Cotton – Cotton is a natural fiber that is soft and absorbent. It is often used in workwear because it is comfortable to wear and can withstand a lot of wear and tear. Cotton also absorbs moisture which makes it ideal for use in warm environments.

Cotton

Polyester – Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is strong, durable, fade-resistant and feels soft. It is often used in work clothes because it can withstand a lot of wear and tear while also preventing the wearer from getting wet. Depending on the quality of the polyester, it can be used in both hot or cold environments.

Polyester

Nylon – Nylon is a synthetic fabric that is durable, easy-care, and stain resistant. It is often used in workwear because it can withstand ripping, tearing, and abrasion. This fabric is especially popular among businesses that are looking for fabrics to create workwear items such as raincoats or windbreakers.

Rayon – Rayon is a natural fabric made from cellulose fibers taken from wood pulp, cotton, or bamboo. It is often used in workwear because it is strong and durable while also remaining breathable and comfortable. This fabric can be worn during hot or cold weather and is even resistant to wrinkles.

What are the benefits of choosing the right material?

using the right fabric can lead to less fatigue among employees. This is because the right material will be more comfortable and allow for better movement, which reduces the amount of energy required to do their job.
using the right fabric can lead to increased productivity. This is because employees will feel more comfortable in their clothing and be less distracted by discomfort or pain. In some cases, it has even been shown that using the right fabric can improve personal safety in the workplace.
Durability is another benefit to using the right fabric because it will last for longer and therefore you won’t have to worry about replacing or repairing workwear as often. Your employees might also be less inclined to lose or damage their work clothes so there would be less need for replacement which means lower cost.
Workwear fabric can also be used to protect sensitive skin types because some fabrics don’t contain irritants which can cause discomfort or pain among employees with especially sensitive skin. It might not seem like a benefit but it can actually be much more expensive replacing an employee who is out because their skin can’t handle your workwear fabric.

Using the right material gives you the opportunity to reinforce a culture of workplace safety that is highly encouraged throughout your business. Your employees will feel safer and more secure if they know they’re wearing safe and reliable workwear.

What are some of the common requirements of workwear?

Workwear is often subject to specific requirements related to the safety of the wearer. For example, it may be necessary for workwear to be flame retardant, chemical resistant, waterproof or high visibility. In some cases, it is also important for workwear to be moisture-wicking or able to withstand extreme temperatures.

Common Fabric Weights for Workwear

Weight Meter

Workwear fabrics come in a variety of weights and applications. Here are some of the most common:

Lightweight fabrics (150-210GSM): These are perfect for hot weather or jobs that require a lot of movement. They include cotton, cotton blend and rayon.

Medium-weight fabrics (235-270GSM): These are good for general use and jobs that require some protection from the elements. They include polyester, cotton and nylon.

Heavyweight fabrics (350GSM+): These are best for jobs that require protection from outside elements, such as cold weather or harsh chemicals. They include canvas, denim and twill.

Tips on how to choose the right workwear fabric for your business

When choosing the right fabric for your workwear, there are a few things to consider. Here are some tips to help you make the best decision:

1. Pick the right fabric. Not all fabrics are created equal – some are more comfortable than others, while others are more durable or resistant to certain elements. Choose a fabric that is suited to your specific needs and preferences.

2. Safety is essential. Your workwear must be safe and reliable, especially if it involves contact with dangerous substances, hazardous conditions, or other safety hazards. In these cases, it is a good idea to seek out the fabric that has been treated or tested to ensure your employees’ protection from harm.

3. Don’t forget about the budget. Workwear fabrics come in a wide range of prices and quality levels, so it is important to know what type of fabric you want before setting a budget for your purchase. You should also consider how often you will need to replace your workwear, and whether you want it to be durable or disposable.

Our suggestion

POLYESTER/COTTON: When choosing a fabric for workwear, polyester/cotton blends are a good option because they are hard-wearing and comfortable. They can be washed often without fading or creasing, and they keep their shape well. Polyester/cotton blend clothes are also suitable for profile or uniform clothes. And the cost is less than pure cotton.
100% Cotton: a good choice for workwear because it is comfortable and easy to care for. It can be machine washed and dried without shrinking or losing its color, and it doesn’t wrinkle easily. Cotton is also a good choice for employees with sensitive skin. Also can combine with flame retardant treatment.
COTTON/POLYAMIDE: The cotton/polyamide blend is a comfortable fabric suited for clothing intended for dirty environments. Cotton/polyamide does not absorb moisture so easily and dries much faster than pure cotton. The fabric is comfy to wear and can take a lot of wear and tear without losing its appearance. This is a good fabric for workwear in challenging work environments. But the price is higher than the other fabrics.

Conclusion

Choosing the right fabric is crucial for your business. It will dictate how comfortable and safe your employees are at all times, which means it pays to make sure you’ve got the perfect material for their needs. Whether you need winter wear, abrasion resistant, high durability, waterproof fabrics or other popular fabric, we can help find what you want through our wide selection of materials that suit every budget. Contact us today to learn more about choosing the best fabric for your company!