What to Look for in Textiles - 2020 Addition

 
 

KEY ATTRIBUTES FOR TEXTILES IN OUR NEW COVID-19 WORLD

Tessa Koch, Textile Expert

Attributes traditionally necessary only in health care environments are now important everywhere. Moving forward our work environments will need to be cleanable yet comfortable.  Textiles will need to preform but also add softness and a calming, cozy feeling to the built environment.  Stinson has thousands of options that will do just that!

What to look for depending on application:

  1. Bleach-Solution Cleanability for disinfecting purposes.

  2. Heavy-Duty Physical Properties- more than just abrasion but all physical properties:

    • In Woven Textiles a minimum of 50,000 double rubs. Also consider Seam Slippage, Breaking Strength and Brush Pill.  The Association of Contract Textiles (ACT) Industry Standards are a minimum guideline.  You can find this information at www.contracttextiles.org

    • For a Coated Textiles, I.E. Vinyl, Polyurethane and Silicone, a minimum of 100,000 double rubs.  Always confirm compatibility with Cleaning Protocol to extend the life of the product and increase sustainability. 

  3. Fluid Barrier Protection – prevents fluids from passing through the upholstery and getting to the foam.  If fluids get into the foam, it can quickly build up mold, mildew and bacteria.

  4. Antimicrobial Protection – provides feeling of security and serves to protect the surface of the material.  Antimicrobial additives make no ‘health claims’ but can help minimize transference of bacteria.

  5. Enhanced Fade Resistance – for outdoor areas and indoor areas that receive an abundance of natural sunlight.

  6. Soil/Stain Resistance – NanoTex, Greenshield, InCase, Sunbrella with Assure Technology, etc. help to prolong the life of the surface material by providing additional durability while also protecting against spills and stains.

Resources from CF Stinson:

Crypton cleaners are practical & easy to use. They offer a:

  1. Purple Upholstery Stain Remover: (for removing “remove grease, oil, tar, shoe polish, butter, cosmetics, crayon, gum, lipstick and more from all fabrics with a W or WS cleaning code.”)

  2. Gold Upholstery Stain Remover: (for removing “food and beverage stains such as beer, wine, milk and powerful enough to help remove more difficult stains such as blood, mildew, urine and vomit.”)

  3. Upholstery Disinfectant & Deodorizer: (which is “designed to safely and effectively remove odors while refreshing the fabric surface. Note: When used in conjunction with Crypton fabrics, this product is an EPA registered, hospital-grade quaternary disinfectant”)

  4. Leather & Vinyl Cleaner: (used “to safely clean treated leather and vinyl. Gently cleansing the surface, it helps break up dirt, grease and grime as well as other difficult stains.”)

  5. Leather & Vinyl Protector: (used to “help restore beauty and luster to leather and vinyl. For the best results - apply with a clean & dry cloth.”)

  6. Mess Eliminator: (used to “help remove pet stains and odors. For added freshness, use in conjunction with the Upholstery Disinfectant and Deodorizer.”)

See more on Crypton Cleaners by clicking here.

As a Textile Consultant, I (Tessa) am happy to answer any questions and point you in the direction of just the right fit for your project’s unique requirements and aesthetic!

 
Amanda JacobsonDesignComment