Overview of bio-down filler and how to wash it correctly

A contemporary substitute for conventional down, bio-down filler provides a low-weight, environmentally responsible choice for people seeking warmth without sacrificing sustainability. Because it mimics the softness and insulating qualities of natural down and is hypoallergenic and cruelty-free, this material has become more and more popular.

Notwithstanding its benefits, bio-down needs to be properly maintained to keep its loft and durability. It is essential to wash it properly to guarantee that it keeps its warmth and fluff. Knowing what methods and supplies to use will help you preserve your bio-down items for many years to come.

Aspect Details
Composition Bio-down is a synthetic material designed to mimic the lightness and warmth of natural down, typically made from recycled or eco-friendly fibers.
Washing Method Wash bio-down items in cold water on a gentle cycle, using a mild detergent. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners.
Drying Tumble dry on low heat with dryer balls to maintain fluffiness. Ensure the item is completely dry to prevent clumping.
Storage Store bio-down products in a cool, dry place, avoiding compression to maintain loft and insulation properties.

What type of filler is this

Bio-down is a white, synthetic material with a biological foundation. among the first of its kind used by textile workers.

Its characteristics are similar to those of an animal’s undercoat, but it doesn’t trigger allergic reactions in people. Dry bio-down is silky and light, with a high degree of elasticity that practically resists compression and instantly regains its original shape.

The material is made up of tiny, dense balls of fluff that can reach lengths of up to 5 centimeters. The raw material divides easily, rolls into lumps, is porous, and is easy to form. Such fluff, even in small amounts, can fill a large space.

Among the warmest materials is bio-down. It was first created to produce clothing for polar explorers, and it can tolerate temperatures as low as -40 degrees without adding weight to the item.

How the filler is made

In order to shield northern explorers from the Arctic’s 60-degree frosts, bio-down was developed in the 1970s of the 20th century. Later on, though, the material was much more widely available, and apparel producers started using it to create bulky winter apparel.

Among those who started producing bio-down were DuPont, 3M Thinsulate, and Sorona. Later on, they won an award for this kind of eco-development and patent the biopolymer they used to create the raw material.

After undergoing several technological changes, the material is now regarded as an inventive advancement in the textile sector. It is renewable in the natural world and friendly to the environment. The thermoplastic is fermented to produce the material. Furthermore, the technology of production lowers the usage of fossil fuels. For instance, 30% less energy is required to produce bio-fluff than nylon, and the greenhouse effect is decreased by 60–70%.

At the moment, factories in China, Japan, and the USA produce bio-fluff. Sustans and Dupont Sorona continue to lead the industry in its production. It is made in Russia, among other places, under the "Stayer" brand.

Types of filler

In order to utilize bio-fluff more sensibly, it was categorized using a unique marking system:

  • class "C" for creating warm outerwear and bedding;
  • brand "P" is in demand in sewing outerwear for children, as well as ski equipment;
  • class "TIB" with increased density for clothing of those who spend a lot of time in the cold: climbers, polar explorers, oil workers, tourists and sailors;
  • class "B" for insulating shoes;
  • brand "FR" – fireproof, for the production of firefighter uniforms.

There’s a mark on the label "bio down" for real bio-down.

Pros and cons of the filler

Advantages:

  • 1.5 times warmer than natural down, effective up to -40 degrees.
  • Does not "climb", retains shape, volume and is not very compressible.
  • Machine washable, dries no longer than 4 hours.
  • Lightweight, does not restrict movement and does not form creases.
  • Does not cause allergies and skin itching, does not absorb odors and does not smell itself.
  • Dry cleaning is not required;
  • Resistant to high humidity and wear over time.

Disadvantages:

  • Electrifies.
  • Easily flammable and does not withstand open fire, batteries and heaters.
  • Does not absorb moisture, so thermal underwear is often worn under bio-down clothing.
  • More expensive than natural materials.

Application areas

The primary purpose of bio-fluff, which was originally developed to shield polar explorers from wind and cold, is to stuff outerwear, which includes professional suits.

Using bio-down, one can produce:

The environmentally friendly and animal-friendly substitute for conventional down, bio-down filler, needs particular maintenance to keep it comfortable and high-quality. In order to preserve the natural benefits of bio-down filled items and keep them soft, warm, and long-lasting, this article provides helpful advice on how to wash and care for them properly.

Filler care rules

Bio-down may also raise concerns because natural down is a fickle material to maintain. They are unfounded; we will explain the nuances and how these products can be cleaned at home.

We use a washing machine:

  1. Temperature 30-40 degrees, spin no more than 600 revolutions.
  2. The “delicate wash” and “down jackets” modes are suitable for washing bio-down.
  3. Add conditioner or special balls for washing.
  4. When taking to dry cleaning, read the instructions on the label.
  5. Do not dry near a heater, in direct sunlight or in a machine.
  6. Instead of granulated powder, use a liquid detergent.

If you wash the inner pockets, fittings, and sleeve edges with laundry soap and a soft brush before washing, cleaning them will be simpler.

Hand cleansing:

  1. Wash bulky items in the bathtub or a large basin with liquid powder.
  2. Beat the item before soaking.
  3. Brush the pockets, collar and sleeves before washing.
  4. Do not wring out with all your might, let the water drain.
    After washing, rinse thoroughly in cold water so that the filler does not absorb chemicals.

Cleaners and organic/chemical solutions are intolerable to Bio-fluff. No more than once a year should you take the item to be dry cleaned.

Desiccate the object:

  1. Place it horizontally on a soft impregnating fabric.
  2. Turn it over every half hour or hour until completely dry (takes 3-4 hours).
  3. Beat the dry item.

Certain jackets are not recommended for home washing, as stated by the manufacturer on the label. This item needs to be dry cleaned on a yearly basis.

Steaming is an option for products with bio-down; the key is to select the mode based on the external material. After the insulation is straightened, we take this action.

How much does the fabric sell for??

Although products made with bio-down cost two to three times as much as those made with natural filler, their longer service life makes up for this. Generally speaking, the price of a kilogram of filler ranges from 250 to 2000 rubles at wholesale, based on the type of down, the producer, and its attributes. Low density layered insulation costs about 600 rubles per kilogram.

A cost-efficient and environmentally friendly substitute for conventional down, bio-down filler offers warmth and coziness without sacrificing moral principles. Its quality will not last forever if you don’t follow the care instructions.

It is important to handle items containing bio-down gently when washing them. The loft and insulation qualities of the filler can be preserved by using cold water, a gentle cycle, and a mild detergent. To restore these items to their original fluff, make sure they are completely dry, ideally using dryer balls.

Your bio-down items will stay warm and sturdy if you adhere to these easy maintenance guidelines, which makes them a dependable addition to your wardrobe.

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Anastasia Belova

I have been working in the textile industry for over 12 years. My main hobby is studying the properties of fabrics and their impact on our everyday life. I love to talk about new products and share practical tips on caring for different materials. My collection contains hundreds of fabric samples from all over the world, and I am ready to share my findings with you!

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