Textile and Apparel Science

Microfiber Shedding at Home Laundering: Evaluation of Washing Options for Clothing Made of Synthetic Materials

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Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of different washing options on microfiber shedding during the home laundering process of synthetic clothing with different washing cycles. An experimental research design, consisting of 4 (washing options) x 3 (polyester clothing types) x 3 (washing cycles) x 2 (repetition) was used for this study. The findings revealed that the use of washing bag, laundry ball, and lint trap did not reduce microfiber shedding of synthetic clothing. In fact, the use of laundry ball accelerated microfiber shedding. It also presented the effects of different washing cycles on microfiber shedding of synthetic clothing. The study findings urge the needs of educating consumers to choose right washing options to minimize microfiber shedding. The findings also have implications to develop effective washing options which can facilitate laundering process and minimize the negative environmental impact by controlling microfiber pollution at home laundering.

Keywords: microfiber shedding, home laundering, synthetic clothing, washing options

How to Cite:

Salahuddin, M. & Lee, Y., (2022) “Microfiber Shedding at Home Laundering: Evaluation of Washing Options for Clothing Made of Synthetic Materials”, International Textile and Apparel Association Annual Conference Proceedings 78(1). doi: https://doi.org/10.31274/itaa.13442