What Fabric is Fleece? The Cozy Science Behind Your Favorite Blankets

Whatever the cold winds blow in, fleece creeps about in the cold-hoodies, throws, and jackets, and the soft and cushy blankets that we like to snuggle down under. But have you ever stopped to think about what fleece really is?

There is this widespread mythology popular in the psyche of people that fleece is something made out of the wool of sheep. It is purely synthetic, though. No wonder many might be wondering about the whole soft and somewhat “woolly” feel of it. So, let us go all fuzzy and see what actually fleece is and why it is considered the fabric of comfort worldwide for a warm winter along with bulk fleece blanket orders.

What Is Fleece Made Of?

Fleece is synthetic, generally manufactured from polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a kind of polyester. Some kinds might be blended with other synthetic fibers to give it a slight stretch or a bit more durability. What makes fleece unique is its brushed surface that scatters tiny air pockets to trap body heat, hence creating a warm environment.

Despite its name, fleece is not wool and is in fact totally synthetic. It tries to mimic the insulation of wool but being lightweight, generally machine washable, and usually less expensive for fleece blankets.

Fun Fact:

Some fleece can be made from recycled plastic bottles, thus rendering it an eco-friendly option if produced under proper conditions.

The Making Process of Fleece Fabric

The fleece-making process begins with polyester chips being melted and spun into yarn. These yarns are knitted into fabric and are then brushed to raise the fibers so as to give fleece its softness and warmth.

Here is a simplistic breakdown:

•             Polyester chips are melted and extruded into fibers.

•             Fibers are spun into yarn.

•             Yarn is knitted into fabric.

•             Fabric is brushed and napped to create the fluffy texture.

This brushing step is critical: it increases the surface area of the fibers, inducing heat retention. The end product? Something that is breathable, lightweight, and comfortable.

Different Types of Fleece

Depending on the slight nuances in texture, weight, and application, these types primarily stand:

•             Polar Fleece: By far the most common type—warm, light, used for blankets and outerwear.

•             Microfleece: Thinner, softer, used for the lining of garments and baby blankets, et cetera.

•             French Terry Fleece: Only gets brushed on one side, which offers a smoother feel with less weight.

•             Sherpa Fleece: Very fluffy, usually for jacket lining and heavy blankets.

•             Slub Fleece: Gives a textured, heathered look–just more chic, yet equally soft.

When buying fleece blankets bulk, the kind of fleece you select can go a long way in serving the purpose you are aiming for- be it cozy giveaways, hospital supplies, or winter goods.

Why Fleece Is So Popular

There’s a reason fleece remains an ace option for winter textiles:

1. Warmth Without Weight

The fleece insulates you from the cold but does not weigh one down. It goes well with layering and blankets that feel smooth and snuggly but are not heavy.

2. Breathable and Moisture-Wicking

Unlike wool, fleece doesn’t retain moisture. Instead, it pulls it away from the body; hence athletes and outdoor brands readily endorse the use.

3. Hypoallergenic and Vegan-Friendly

One would go for fleece if they were allergic to wool or wanted something cruelty-free.

4. Inexpensive and Easy to Care for

Fleece will wash well, dry quickly, and hold up well through camping trips or in kids’ rooms, and for this reason, it sells really well in large quantities for fleece blankets to hotels, charities, and promotional uses.

Who Buys Bulk Fleece Blankets?

Currently, placing a bulk fleece blankets order is common in different industries and for different causes:

•             Hospitals and Clinics: For that little bit of extra comfort and warmth in medical settings.

•             Charities and Disaster Relief: Lightweight, portable, and warm—just right for an emergency kit.

•             Schools and Camps: Custom fleece blankets are hot commodities for teams and events.

•             Corporate Giveaways: An affordable appreciated give-away.

•             Retailers and Boutiques: Cheap inventory that customers actually need and want.

Bulk fleece blankets are not just good on price but good for clients through seasons or settings.

Sustainability and Fleece

Environmental impact must be one concern regarding synthetic fabrics. While fleece is made from plastic, many producers now recycle materials, with PET bottles being very common in the production of eco-fleece.

When ordering fleece blankets bulk, ask if their stock is made from recycled content or if they have environmentally friendly alternatives. It’s a small step that really counts.

Fleece Is Just Beyond Fluff

So, what does fleece mean? It is one of those man-made wonders, arising from the synthetic fiber, a few treatment steps when fine sided up, so to speak, and through insulating by holding heat ambience-so-to-speak. Whether you are buying one throw for your couch or fleece blankets bulk for your organization, you are paying for immense comfort, warmth, and versatility over the years.

As you warm yourselves up this season, remember: that blanket you are wrapped in may have been made from a recycled plastic bottle-one of the very best winter friends now.