Fleece Vs Microfiber: How Do They Differ & Better?

Fleece and microfiber are two popular fabric choices known for their softness, versatility, and unique properties. Fleece, predominantly made from brushed polyester, offers excellent insulation and moisture resistance, making it ideal for cold-weather clothing and cozy blankets.

Microfiber, a blend of polyester and other polymers, provides a smooth texture, good moisture absorption, and a range of applications such as towels, cleaning cloths, and bedding.

While fleece and microfiber share some similarities, including their synthetic composition, they differ in aspects like texture, weight, breathability, and environmental impact.

Understanding these distinctions helps in selecting the most suitable fabric for specific needs and preferences.

Key Differences Between Fleece and Microfiber

Composition

• Fleece: Fleece is predominantly made from brushed polyester. It can also be made from other materials like cotton or a blend of synthetic and natural fibers. The brushing process creates a soft, fuzzy texture that is characteristic of fleece.
• Microfiber: Microfiber is typically made from a blend of polyester and other polymers such as acrylic and nylon. This combination of fibers results in a fine, lightweight fabric with a smooth texture. The specific blend of materials can vary depending on the desired properties of the microfiber fabric.

Texture

• Fleece: Fleece has a distinct texture that is soft and fuzzy. It is created by brushing the polyester fibers, which raises the surface and creates a pile of tiny loops. This texture gives fleece a cozy and comforting feel, making it a popular choice for cold-weather clothing, blankets, and accessories.
• Microfiber: Microfiber, in contrast, has a smooth and silky texture. The fine fibers used in microfiber fabrics are tightly woven or knit, resulting in a fabric that feels soft and luxurious to the touch. This smooth texture lends itself well to applications such as towels, bathrobes, and certain types of clothing.

Insulation

• Fleece: One of the key advantages of fleece is its excellent insulation properties. The air trapped within the fibers acts as a natural insulator, helping to retain body heat and keep the wearer warm. Fleece is known for its ability to provide warmth even in wet conditions, making it suitable for outdoor activities and cold climates.
• Microfiber: Microfiber, while still providing some insulation, does not offer the same level of warmth as fleece. The tightly woven or knit structure of microfiber fabrics does not trap as much air, resulting in less insulation. Microfiber is better suited for applications where lightweight and breathable fabrics are desired, rather than heavy insulation.

Moisture Resistance

• Fleece: Fleece is generally moisture-resistant. The polyester fibers used in fleece fabrics have inherent hydrophobic properties, meaning they repel water to some extent. This moisture resistance helps to keep the fabric dry and comfortable. However, it is important to note that fleece is not completely waterproof and can absorb moisture over time or under prolonged exposure to water.
• Microfiber: The moisture resistance of microfiber can vary depending on the specific type and weave of the fabric. Some microfiber fabrics are designed with a split weave, which enhances their ability to absorb moisture. This makes them suitable for applications like cleaning cloths or towels, where the fabric is intended to absorb liquids. However, not all microfiber fabrics have this split weave construction, and some may have a smoother surface that repels water to a certain degree.

Drying Speed

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics generally have a quick drying speed. The nature of the polyester fibers allows moisture to evaporate relatively quickly, speeding up the drying process. This makes fleece a practical choice for garments or items that may get damp or wet and need to dry promptly.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics, with their tightly woven or knit structure, also tend to dry quickly. The fine fibers used in microfiber fabrics allow moisture to spread out over a larger surface area, facilitating faster evaporation. This quick drying time is particularly advantageous for items like towels, bathrobes, or sports clothing that need to be ready for use soon after washing or exposure to water.

Softness

• Fleece: Fleece is known for its softness and cozy feel. The brushing process used in manufacturing fleece helps to create a plush texture that is gentle against the skin. The loops and fibers in fleece provide a comforting and soft touch, making it a popular choice for garments, blankets, and other items where comfort is desired.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics are also appreciated for their softness. The fine fibers used in microfiber create a smooth and silky texture that feels gentle and luxurious. The softness of microfiber makes it suitable for items like towels, bathrobes, and bedding where a soft and comfortable feel is important.

Durability

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics, particularly those made from polyester, are generally durable and long-lasting. Polyester fibers have high tensile strength and resistance to abrasion, making them resilient against wear and tear. Fleece garments and products can withstand repeated use and washing without significant loss of quality or appearance.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics are also known for their durability. The combination of polyester and other polymers used in microfiber creates a fabric that is resistant to pilling, stretching, and tearing. Microfiber products can maintain their strength and integrity even with frequent use and laundering, ensuring long-lasting performance.

Water Repellency

• Fleece: While fleece is moisture-resistant, it is not inherently water-repellent. The nature of the polyester fibers in fleece allows water to bead up and roll off to some extent, providing a certain level of protection against light moisture. However, fleece can absorb water over time or under prolonged exposure, which may affect its insulating properties.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics can vary in their water-repellency depending on the specific type and treatment applied. Some microfiber fabrics are treated with water-repellent finishes, making them highly resistant to water absorption. These treated microfiber fabrics are commonly used in outdoor gear, such as jackets or sports apparel, where protection from rain or moisture is important.

Moisture Absorption

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics have limited moisture absorption. The nature of the polyester fibers used in fleece makes them hydrophobic, meaning they repel water and do not readily absorb moisture. This property helps to keep fleece garments and items relatively dry and comfortable during use.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics, especially those with a split weave construction, have excellent moisture absorption capabilities. The fine fibers and textured surface of microfiber allow them to efficiently absorb and hold moisture. This makes microfiber suitable for applications such as cleaning cloths or towels, where the absorption of liquids is desirable.

Typical Use

• Fleece: Fleece is commonly used in a variety of applications. It is widely used for outerwear, including jackets, hoodies, and sweaters, thanks to its insulation properties. Fleece is also popular for blankets, scarves, hats, and gloves. Its softness and warmth make it a favored choice for cold-weather clothing and cozy accessories.
• Microfiber: Microfiber is versatile and finds use in various products. It is commonly used for towels, bathrobes, and bedding due to its softness and moisture absorption properties. Microfiber is also employed in cleaning cloths, where its fine fibers help to trap dust and dirt effectively. Additionally, microfiber can be found in certain clothing items, such as activewear or lightweight shirts, where a smooth and comfortable feel is desired.

Weight

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics tend to be relatively heavier compared to microfiber. The thickness and density of the brushed polyester fibers contribute to the weight of fleece. While this weight can provide a sense of coziness and warmth, it may be less desirable for those seeking lightweight fabrics.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics are generally lightweight due to the fine nature of the fibers used. The thin and lightweight composition of microfiber makes it suitable for applications where a lighter fabric is desired, such as lightweight clothing or travel accessories.

Breathability

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics offer moderate breathability. While the brushing process creates air pockets within the fibers that can provide some ventilation, fleece is not as breathable as natural fibers like cotton or linen. It can retain heat and may feel less breathable during intense physical activities or in warm environments.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics can vary in breathability depending on the specific type and construction. Generally, microfiber has good breathability due to its fine fibers and tight weave or knit structure. This allows air to circulate and moisture to evaporate, contributing to a more comfortable and breathable fabric.

Ease of Care

• Fleece: Fleece is known for its easy care requirements. It is typically machine washable and can withstand regular washing without losing its shape or softness. Fleece also dries relatively quickly, reducing the time needed for drying or air-drying. It is a low-maintenance fabric that retains its quality even with frequent use and washing.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics are also easy to care for. They are generally machine washable and can withstand repeated washings without shrinking or wrinkling. Microfiber dries quickly, allowing for shorter drying times. Additionally, microfiber is resistant to stains, making it easier to clean and maintain compared to some other fabrics.

Allergenic Potential

• Fleece: Fleece made from synthetic fibers like polyester has minimal allergenic potential. Synthetic materials are less likely to trigger allergies or sensitivities compared to natural fibers like wool or certain plant-based fibers. Fleece is often a preferred choice for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to other materials.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics, particularly those made from polyester, are generally hypoallergenic. They have a low likelihood of causing allergies or irritation. However, it is important to note that some individuals may still have sensitivities to certain chemicals or finishes applied to microfiber fabrics, so personal comfort should always be taken into consideration.

Pilling Resistance

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics can be prone to pilling over time. The brushing process used to create the fuzzy texture can cause the fibers to tangle and form small balls or pills on the surface of the fabric. Regular wear and washing can contribute to this pilling effect, although the severity can vary depending on the quality of the fleece fabric.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics are generally resistant to pilling. The tightly woven or knit structure of microfiber helps to prevent the formation of pills on the fabric surface. This resistance to pilling ensures that microfiber garments and items maintain a smooth and pristine appearance even after extended use and washing.

Cost

• Fleece: The cost of fleece can vary depending on factors such as the quality of the fabric, brand, and specific application. Generally, fleece made from polyester is more affordable compared to high-end or specialty fleece options. Fleece provides a cost-effective option for those seeking warmth and comfort without breaking the bank.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics can also vary in cost, depending on the quality, brand, and specific use. While some microfiber products may be more expensive due to advanced technologies or specialized treatments, there are also affordable options available. The cost of microfiber can be influenced by factors such as the blend of fibers, manufacturing processes, and additional features or benefits.

Color Retention

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics are known for their good color retention. The synthetic nature of polyester fibers used in fleece makes them resistant to fading or discoloration caused by sunlight or washing. Fleece garments and items tend to maintain their vibrant colors even with regular use and laundering.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics, especially those made from polyester, also exhibit good color retention. The synthetic fibers used in microfiber are generally resistant to fading or color loss. Microfiber products retain their colors well over time, allowing them to maintain their visual appeal even with frequent washing or exposure to sunlight.

Static Electricity Generation

• Fleece: Fleece fabrics, due to their synthetic nature, can generate static electricity. The brushing process used in fleece production can contribute to static buildup, resulting in garments or items clinging to the body or attracting small electric shocks. Antistatic treatments or measures may be applied to reduce static in fleece products.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics, particularly those made from polyester, can also generate static electricity. The smooth texture and fine fibers of microfiber can lead to static buildup, causing garments or items to cling or create small electric shocks. Antistatic treatments or measures may be applied to mitigate static in microfiber products.

Environmental Impact

• Fleece: The environmental impact of fleece can vary depending on several factors, such as the production processes, use of recycled materials, and disposal practices. Fleece made from synthetic fibers like polyester is derived from petroleum-based sources, which have environmental implications. However, efforts are being made to produce fleece using recycled polyester or more sustainable manufacturing methods.
• Microfiber: Microfiber’s environmental impact is also influenced by factors such as material sourcing, manufacturing processes, and end-of-life disposal. While microfiber fabrics often contain synthetic fibers like polyester, which have environmental concerns, some microfiber fabrics can be made from recycled materials. Additionally, advancements in manufacturing technologies aim to reduce energy consumption and minimize waste generation.

Application Versatility

• Fleece: Fleece finds wide application versatility. It is commonly used in outerwear, blankets, scarves, hats, and gloves for warmth and comfort. Fleece is also utilized in sportswear, sleepwear, and various cold-weather accessories. Its softness and insulation properties make it suitable for a range of garments and items.
• Microfiber: Microfiber fabrics are highly versatile in their applications. They are commonly used for towels, bathrobes, bedding, and cleaning cloths due to their softness, moisture absorption, and cleaning effectiveness. Microfiber can also be found in certain clothing items, such as activewear, as well as in upholstery and other household products.

Fleece Vs Microfiber: Comparison table

Feature	Property	Fleece	Microfiber
1	Composition	Predominantly polyester	Polyester blend (incl. acrylic, nylon)
2	Texture	Soft and fuzzy	Smooth and silky
3	Insulation	Excellent	Less effective
4	Moisture Resistance	Moisture-resistant	Varies, depending on type and weave
5	Drying Speed	Quick	Quick
6	Softness	Thick and fluffy	Smooth and silky
7	Durability	Generally durable	Generally durable
8	Water Repellency	Repels water	Varies, depending on type and weave
9	Moisture Absorption	Limited	Absorbent
10	Typical Use	Outerwear, blankets, sportswear	Cleaning cloths, towels, upholstery
11	Weight	Relatively heavier	Lightweight
12	Breathability	Moderate	Varies, depending on type and weave
13	Ease of Care	Easy to care for	Easy to care for
14	Allergenic Potential	Minimal	Minimal
15	Pilling Resistance	May pill over time	Resistant to pilling
16	Cost	Varies, depending on quality and brand	Varies, depending on quality and brand
17	Color Retention	Good color retention	Good color retention
18	Static Electricity Generation	May generate static	May generate static
19	Environmental Impact	Depends on manufacturing practices	Depends on manufacturing practices
20	Application Versatility	Limited to certain clothing and bedding items	Versatile, used in various products

Frequently Asked Question

To Recap

Fleece and microfiber are two distinct fabric choices with their own unique properties and applications. Fleece stands out for its soft and fuzzy texture, excellent insulation, and moisture resistance, making it a popular choice for cold-weather garments and cozy items.

Microfiber, on the other hand, offers a smooth and silky texture, good moisture absorption, and versatility in applications ranging from towels to clothing.

Both fabrics have their advantages and considerations, including cost, durability, and environmental impact.

By understanding the differences between fleece and microfiber, individuals can make informed decisions when selecting fabrics that best suit their needs and preferences.