Overview
Nylon is a manufactured fibre made from petrochemicals.It can be extruded as a filament fibre or the filament can be cut into staple and spun.
Nylon is both lightweight and strong, making it suitable for a mix of apparel and industrial textiles.
Nylon can be recycled, with some apparel brands reclaiming lost fishing nets to melt down and turn into apparel suitable textiles.
Common Fabrics
- Organza
- Ripstop
- Lame
- Chenille
- Swimwear (knit)
- Tricot
- Mesh (sportswear)
Context of Use
- Nylon is commonly used in high performance wear such as camping gear and backpacks, outdoor apparel, sportswear and swimwear.
- Due to its elasticity and recovery nylon has been used in stockings / hosiery, with some people even referring to stockings as nylons.
- Nylon has a wide range of industrial uses such as making rope and fishing nets.
- Recycled nylon is increasingly popular in athleisure garments, such as yoga pants, and often comes from "ghost nets", fishing nets that have been lost (or discarded) in the ocean.
Care Guide
The following is a general guide to caring for this textile, however you should always refer to and follow the instructions on the care label of each garment.
How to Wash
Nylon can be machine washed or washed by hand.
Washing Temperature
Cool to warm wash. A cool wash reduces carbon emissions.
Detergents and Bleach
Nylon can be washed using regular clothing detergents.
Nylon should not be bleached.
Drying
Nylon is best air dried on a clothes line, however it can be tumble dried on a cool setting. Tumble drying can build up static.
Ironing
Being a thermoplastic, nylon can melt under hot temperatures. Nylon is wrinkle resistant but if must iron it use the coolest setting on your iron.
Storing
Nylon should be stored out of direct sunlight with good airflow
Recycle
- Nylon can be recycled and some companies are starting to make products from recycled nylon.
- Some companies may offer take back schemes or collection points for end of life nylon garments.
Further Reading
You can learn more about nylon at the following external links.