Acrylic – a material (not) worth getting to know better?
The fashion industry is developing at a dizzying pace. New technologies make it possible to create materials with specific properties at extremely low prices. This is why the fast-fashion industry is flourishing – collections can be changed literally in the blink of an eye, thus responding to current trends. However, little is said about the consequences of such actions.
One of the fashion elements that has recently come under scrutiny is acrylic – a synthetic material used extensively in the fashion industry. Due to its imperfect nature, we should think twice before purchasing clothes made from this fabric. In today's world, as more and more people are becoming aware of the environmental impact of clothing production and the rights of workers in the fashion industry, buying acrylic clothing seems irrational. Read this article to discover all the secrets of this material. We invite you to read on!
What is acrylic? What material is it?
Wondering what acrylic actually is and what kind of material it is? We're here to explain. Thanks to its properties, acrylic has found applications in many fields, including clothing and textile production. It's a shortened form of polyacrylonitrile, a synthetic fiber created through a chemical reaction. Shockingly, it's a chemical compound belonging to the same group as acrylic paints, varnishes, and adhesives. These reactions guarantee the hard and durable material that is acrylic.
These characteristics make this material frequently used in clothing production. However, this isn't the only property of acrylic that attracts clothing manufacturers. The main attraction is price. Acrylic is used as a cheaper alternative to natural fibers such as wool or cotton. However, be careful, as it has absolutely nothing in common with these materials. Before making a purchase, it's worth checking the label to see what the material contains. Price can be misleading, as manufacturers sometimes sell acrylic clothing for the equivalent price of natural fibers, just to enjoy even greater profits.
---Acrylic – fabric composition
Acrylic is a synthetic fabric made from acrylonitrile, an organic chemical compound that provides the material with resistance to damage. Acrylonitrile is a synthetic polymer belonging to the polyamide group. In other words, acrylic is a petroleum derivative. Other ingredients, such as carbon, water, and various chemical additives, are also used in acrylic production, affecting the material's final properties.
What else characterizes acrylic? The material's properties extend beyond its durability. Combining acrylic with other ingredients guarantees flexibility, softness, and the ability to change the fabric's color. The acrylic fabric production process is also crucial, involving spinning fibers on specialized machines and structuring them, allowing for the creation of various patterns and textures. The use of modern technologies allows for the modification of fabric properties to meet the manufacturer's needs.
Acrylic material – opinions about the fabric
Acrylic is a fabric that has gained significant popularity in the clothing industry in recent years. Acrylic knits are soft and durable. Due to its properties, this fabric is often used as a replacement for wool. However, despite its several advantages, this material is also highly controversial, and opinions are divided. Some believe that acrylic knits are comfortable and pleasant to the touch, and that they retain their shape even after numerous washes. Others, however, complain that the fabric can pill and cause an unpleasant feeling on the skin.
There's no doubt that opinions depend largely on individual user preferences, but also on awareness of ecology and the state of the environment. Those even remotely interested in the fashion industry likely know that the acrylic production process has a negative impact on the environment, and for this reason alone, it's best to avoid it altogether. Its production requires enormous amounts of water. High CO2 emissions and harmful working conditions in factories are also a problem. If you want to learn more about acrylic, expert opinions will certainly prove helpful.
---Acrylic (material) – advantages and disadvantages
Like any material, acrylic has its advantages and disadvantages. One of the biggest arguments in favor of acrylic knits is their durability and resistance to damage. Furthermore, acrylic is quite pleasant to the touch, which is superior to, for example, polyester. Another advantage of acrylic fabric is its ease of cleaning. Acrylic is machine washable and requires no special care.
Unfortunately, that's pretty much the end of the good things about acrylic. Its drawbacks far outweigh its advantages, so it's worth considering carefully whether buying clothing made from this fabric is a good idea. Acrylic fabrics can pill and cause an unpleasant, scratchy feeling on the skin, especially for those with sensitive skin. Furthermore, the fabric isn't breathable, which can lead to sweating, irritation, and unpleasant odor. It's also worth noting that acrylic fabric can't replace wool in terms of its exceptional texture and softness.
Despite these drawbacks, acrylic remains a popular material, especially in the production of everyday clothing and accessories. Acrylic fabrics are durable, easy to clean, and above all, inexpensive, which is a significant consideration for many when choosing wardrobe items. It's worth noting, however, that for a slightly higher price, you can purchase natural fabrics like cotton, which are a much better choice for our sensitive skin.
---Acrylic (fabric) - Q&A
We've already explored the properties of acrylic fabric. We also know its advantages and disadvantages. In the following section, you'll find answers to frequently asked questions about this fabric. Familiarize yourself with them, and acrylic will hold no secrets for you. Find out what else is worth knowing about it.
Is acrylic a good material and pleasant to the touch?
Acrylic is a synthetic fiber that typically imitates wool without causing allergies, making it a popular choice for those who can't wear natural fabrics. Acrylic is quite soft and pleasant to the touch, but not as pleasant as natural fibers. Unfortunately, acrylic is difficult to describe as a good material. On the one hand, it's distinguished by its durability, making it a popular choice among clothing manufacturers. On the other hand, acrylic is a petroleum derivative, making it not the best choice for clothing that comes into direct contact with our skin.
Is acrylic warm and keeps you warm?
Synthetic materials don't guarantee warmth. Although acrylic is meant to imitate wool, it can't replace its exceptional thermoregulatory properties. Unfortunately, because it's a synthetic material, it also lacks breathability. It's often used in outerwear for colder days. Unfortunately, this isn't the best solution. Acrylic is also often found in sweaters and T-shirts. It can be found in women's, men's, and children's clothing, but it's worth avoiding.
Does acrylic sting?
Acrylic shouldn't irritate, as compared to other synthetic materials, it's quite soft and pleasant to the touch. However, in some cases, it can cause itching or burning, especially in people with sensitive skin. It's worth remembering that this material is derived from petroleum derivatives, so such reactions can be quite common.
Does acrylic pill and ball up?
Unfortunately, this is one of acrylic's drawbacks – it's susceptible to pilling and pill formation. This phenomenon is particularly noticeable after several washes, especially if the garment is worn under a jacket or coat. Acrylic has low abrasion resistance. To prevent this, wash acrylic separately and use a wash cycle for delicate fabrics.
How to wash acrylic – does it shrink in the wash?
Acrylic is quite durable, but it's still recommended to be careful when washing. It's best to wash acrylic at a low temperature on a delicate cycle to avoid pilling and pills. Acrylic can shrink in the wash, so it's always worth checking the care label before washing. Following these tips will ensure your acrylic garments last a little longer.
Does acrylic "breathe" and allow air to pass through?
Acrylic isn't the best material for breathability and airflow. It doesn't guarantee any airflow. Therefore, wearing acrylic clothing can increase sweating, which can lead to skin irritation. This effect can also cause discomfort and unpleasant odor.
Is acrylic flexible and stretchable?
Acrylic is quite flexible, meaning it can be stretched without damaging or losing its shape. It's not as stretchy as, for example, elastane, but it allows for free body movement and conforms to the body.
Is acrylic an artificial and bad material?
It's worth emphasizing the difference between artificial and synthetic materials. The former are chemically treated natural fibers, while the latter are fibers made from non-naturally occurring ingredients. Acrylic therefore belongs to the second group, synthetic materials. These materials are believed to be harmful to the human body and also have negative consequences for the environment.
Ironing and acrylic
Acrylic is a material that can easily deform when exposed to high temperatures, so ironing clothes made from this fabric should be done with caution. It's best to iron from the inside out at a low temperature (up to 110 degrees Celsius). Avoid using hot steam or ironing directly onto the fabric to avoid damage. Following these few tips will help preserve the acrylic's properties for longer.
We hope this post has shed some light on acrylic, and the tips it contains will help you make a decision about buying clothes made from this material. On the one hand, a major advantage of acrylic is its price, which is worth its weight in gold for many people these days. On the other hand, acrylic is a synthetic material that can negatively impact our skin. So, which clothes are better to choose? Above all, choose natural fabrics like cotton, which are very popular in the clothing industry and don't cost a fortune. When choosing new clothes, shop responsibly. Explore the Bombshe collection and choose clothes made from natural fabrics that will complement your wardrobe and become part of your individual style.
