Microfiber

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Microfiber is fiber with strands less than one denier. Fabrics made with microfibers are exceptionally soft and hold their shape well. They are also used for some cleaning applications, because of their exceptional ability to absorb oils.

[edit] Functional uses

Microfiber performance apparel has become a very popular alternative to cotton apparel for athletic wear, such as cycling jerseys, because the microfiber material wicks moisture away from the body, keeping the athlete cool and dry. Microfibers were also initiated for use in the military and for many federal agencies, such as in the Future Force Warrior Program. This allows for more rapid drying of the soldier, as well as less moisture skin irritation during combat or surveillence.

The NBA used a microfiber ball so players could handle the ball better. This would come about because mirofiber has the ability to absorb oils, meaning that sweat from players touching the ball would be absorbed, making the ball less slippery. However, it received a negative response from most players, including Shaquille O'Neal and Allen Iverson. Soon after, the regular leather ball returned, much to the relief of many players.

Microfiber is also widely used by car detailers to handle such tasks as removing wax, quick detailing, cleaning interior, cleaning glass, as well as drying. Due to its fine fibers which leave no lint or dust, microfiber is a popular choice of towel for avid car detailers and enthusiasts. Chamois leather is also used.

Care should be exercised when using microfiber for cleaning of sensitive surfaces. By nature it accumulates dust, debris, and particles inside its material. Sensitive surfaces can easily be damaged by microfiber cloths.^{[citation needed]} A solution is to wash and dry microfiber cloth after each use, care should be taken to use prescribed washing and drying methods to ensure proper handling. Microfiber cloths which are not washed and dried carefully and strictly according to washing instructions will lose their effectiveness and become more dangerous in cleaning sensitive surfaces (such as all high tech coated surfaces e.g. CRT, LCD and plasma screens).

Microfibers used in table cloths, furniture, and car interiors are constructed to repel liquids and consequently are difficult to stain. Microfiber table cloths will bead liquids until they are removed, usually advertised showing red wine on a white table cloth that wipes clean with a paper towel. It is also used to clean mop heads.

Microfiber underwear have been said to cause problems with yeast infections for some women.^{[citation needed]}

Microfiber textiles tend to be flammable and emit toxic gases when burning. They are made with synthetic fibers such as polyester and nylon (often constructed from polypropylene), which are made from petrochemicals. Microfibers are not made from a renewable resource and they are not biodegradable. However, the petroleum energy used in fertilizers, pesticides, transportation and processing to produce cotton and other renewable resource fibres may outweigh direct use of the petroleum as base stock for producing fibre.