Terry is a type of fabric with a plush texture that is soft to the touch and has highly absorbent qualities. Terry cloth features a high loop pile, which may be on one or both sides of the fabric.
Cotton is the principal material used to manufacture terry cloth, but it may also include polyester, rayon, linen, or blends of spandex or Lycra to add stretch.
Their are different types of terry cloth.
Standard terry cloth has the loosely woven loops on both sides of the fabric that is recognizable in household towels. Usually woven from cotton or a cotton-polyester blend, this type of terry cloth is very plush and absorbent. Because the plush thread loops are straight lines, damage may unspool it and leave barren spots on the fabric.
French Terry cloth has no loops on one side of the fabric. It is a medium to lightweight material that is more elastic than standard terry cloth. The absorbency and plush texture of French terry cloth makes it a popular choice for casual wear and sports clothes.
Knit terry cloth has similar properties to French terry cloth and resembles it by having loops on only one side of the fabric. Knit terry cloth consists of interlocking loops of yarn bound together. This gives it the soft texture and stretchy qualities of knitted fabrics, with the absorbency of terry cloth.
Micro terry fleece has tightly woven loops on both sides of the fabric. Unlike other types of terry cloth, the manufacture of micro terry fleece primarily uses polyester and includes no natural fibers. This makes the cloth extremely soft and increases its absorbency. The density of the weave makes it practical for warm outer garments and baby clothes.
Is baby terry really micro terry because it is small tightly woven loops? In other words, are "small" loops the baby version of cloth with "larger" loops?
What is the difference between terry cloth & fleece?
They have similar characteristics but are made from different materials.
Terry cloth is made out of cotton or a cotton-polyester blend. This material is woven into loops using a loom, which allows the fabric to become soft and plush to absorb more moisture than a flat fabric would.
Fleece is not a natural material and is made instead of 100 percent polyester. Fleece is durable and lighter in weight. Fleece does not absorb water because it is made of polyester.
Learn more about baby terry and other terry fabrics.
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