The difference between holofiber and silicone.

Synthetic outerwear insulators have become a great alternative to natural ones - down or sheepskin. They are much more practical, rarely cause allergies, and their heat-saving properties are no worse. One of the most important advantages is the problem-free washing of clothes with synthetic filling. All this led to an increase in interest in such materials. A legitimate question arises - which is better? Or, for example, what is the difference between holofiber and silicone?

Definition

Holofiber is a nonwoven fabric, consisting of the smallest polyester fibers, empty inside and twisted into a spiral. Thanks to this, it does not wrinkle and easily returns to its original shape. In addition, the spring structure forms a kind of air cushion, which perfectly retains heat. The material is completely safe, does not cause allergies and is used for sewing baby clothes, including products for newborns. It is quite cheap and durable, does not require any specific care and without loss of quality can withstand repeated washing at 40 degrees.

But what is the difference between holofiber and silicone? When it is indicated in the characteristics of outerwear that the filler in it is silicone, we mean only a siliconized synthetic winterizer. In many respects, it is much better than the usual synthetic winterizer, but at the same time retains its heat-shielding properties. We can say that this is the next generation of fillers from such a material. It consists of thermally bonded polyester fibers, not adhesive, that is, it does not contain harmful substances. And the silicone treatment allows the synthetic winterizer to keep its shape much better, recover quickly and retain heat well. However, over time, it can roll down, stray into lumps. To prevent this, things with a similar filler are quilted.

Due to the appearance of lighter materials, the same holofiber, thinsulate, synthetic fluff, siliconized filler is now not so often used in warming outerwear. More often it can be found in pillows and blankets - here its use is quite justified. It is hypoallergenic, does not absorb odors, bacteria and other organic matter do not multiply in it. Such bedding is not difficult to wash, in addition, it is lightweight and perfectly retains heat.

Comparison

Although the chemical composition of these fillers is similar, there are differences in production technology and properties.

Manufacturing technology

The main difference between holofiber and silicone is the structure of the fibers that make up the basis of the material. In the first, they are hollow and twisted into springs, and in the second, they are simply treated with silicone and thermally pressed.

Properties

Siliconized synthetic winterizer is an elastic, lightweight, thin non-woven material that drapes well and keeps warm. It tolerates washing well, but can clump into lumps.

Holofiber has improved characteristics: it is not subject to migration, that is, it will not roll and form thickenings, while being thin and light due to its fiber structure it retains heat much better. It does not absorb odors and moisture, is non-toxic, perfectly keeps its shape - it can be crumpled as you like, the material is quickly restored.

Use

Given the properties of these fillers, they are now used in slightly different ways. Holofiber, due to its greater lightness and better thermal insulation, has become more often used when sewing outerwear, including children's clothing. It almost replaced the siliconized synthetic winterizer. The latter is often used in the manufacture of bedding.

Table

Holofiber Silicone
Hollow fibersFilled fibers
Does not clumpCan clump
Used when sewing clothesUsed when sewing bedding
More expensiveCheaper
Lighter and bulkierSlightly heavier and thinner
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