All about the fibers: Can you use fabric softener on your synthetic wigs? Part 2

Fabric softener is designed to help make clothes feel softer and fluffier in the laundry, as well as reducing static buildup. It can also be used to deodorize clothing items and leave them smelling fresh. Synthetic hair is actually made from a number of different materials that are similar to nylon in terms of their chemical structure. Synthetic hair is exactly the kind of material for which fabric softener was invented.

What is the chemical composition of nylon? How does it compare to other synthetic materials like polyester or acrylic? And what are some of the unique properties that have made nylon such a versatile and useful material over the years? These are just a few of the questions we'll be exploring in this article, as we take a closer look at the fascinating world of synthetic fibers. So if you're ready to learn more about one of the most important materials in our modern world, keep reading!

Synthetic fibers are made from a wide range of different materials with varying chemical compositions. Some of the most common synthetic fabrics include nylon, polyester, acrylic, spandex, and rayon. Each one has its own unique properties and uses, ranging from clothing to industrial machinery to medical technologies.

Perhaps the most well-known synthetic material is nylon, which was invented in the 1920s by chemist Wallace Carothers at DuPont. Unlike other types of synthetic fibers that are spun into thread like natural fabrics, nylon is actually a plastic-like compound that can be shaped into any form using special manufacturing techniques. This makes it ideal for use in things like carpets and tents as well as everyday clothing items like tights, pantyhose, and even hair extensions and wigs.

Another popular synthetic material is polyester, which was first developed in the 1930s as a replacement for silk and is now widely used to make everything from upholstery fabric to raincoats to insulation. Like nylon, polyester can be manufactured into many different forms using specialized techniques like extrusion or injection molding.

And while nylon and polyester are perhaps the best-known synthetic fabrics, there are many other materials that also fall under this category. Some of these include acrylic (commonly used for things like rugs and sweaters), spandex (a stretchy fabric often used for sportswear), rayon (used in things like clothing, thread, and filters), and many others.

So what sets synthetic fibers apart from natural ones? The main difference is that synthetic materials are typically created in a laboratory using some combination of chemicals, whereas natural fabrics like cotton and wool are spun from plant or animal-based products. This allows for more control over the properties of the material and makes it easier to create new versions with specific characteristics, such as greater durability or elasticity.

At first, nylon, polyester, and other synthetic fibers were actually quite stiff and difficult to work with, which is why it wasn't widely adopted for clothing and textiles at the time of its invention. However, as new manufacturing techniques were developed and materials like fabric softener became available, nylon soon became one of the most popular synthetic fabrics around. Today, it continues to be used in everything from tights and pantyhose to carpets and tents. And while it may still be a bit stiff at times, modern advances in technology have made nylon easier than ever to work with and customize for specific purposes.

There are a number of chemical similarities between kanekalon, nylon, and futura (heat-friendly synthetic) fiber. Like kanekalon and nylon, futura fiber is made from synthetic materials that have been designed to mimic the properties of natural hair. This includes its texture, color, and flexibility, as well as its ability to be customized through different manufacturing processes. Additionally, all three of these materials tend to be durable than natural hair and resistant to wear and tear. However, one major difference between them is that kanekalon tends to be softer and fluffier than nylon or futura fiber, making it a better choice for certain applications such as wigs or hair extensions. Futura fiber is more elastic and has a higher melting point, making it less prone to styling damage due the use of heat-tools. However futura fiber also retains static much more than kanekalon -- which may make fabric softener a way to prevent static cling that contributes to the artificially "clumpy" look heat-friendly synthetics take on as you wear them.

If you do decide to use fabric softener on your synthetic hair, just be sure to use cool water and rinse, rinse, RINSE! And remember, while fabric softener may help keep your wig looking great, there are many other steps you can take to maintain its appearance over time! Regular cleaning with proper synthetic safe wig shampoo and conditioner is key and should also be part of your routine.

So, can you use fabric softener on your synthetic wigs? While there is no definitive answer to this question, most experts seem to agree that it won't do any major damage. As long as you're using fabric softener in moderation and following the instructions on the bottle, it's probably safe to add a little extra shine and fluffiness to your synthetic wigs. Just remember that caring for your synthetic hair takes more than just washing it with fabric softener – regular cleaning and styling are also important factors to consider. With these tips in mind, you'll be able to achieve the look and style you want for your synthetic hair. 

We'll see you again in the second installment. It will be all about the fabric softener.