The Voice Of The Food Service Industry In New England
In
my November article I talked about the three most prevalent types of table
linen: 100 percent polyester, 50 percent polyester/50 percent cotton and
100 percent cotton. This article will be devoted to 100 percent poyester
table linen.Polyester is made from ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid. Under a microscope, polyester is smooth, even and closely resembles a solid plastic rod. It absorbs very little water, cannot be repaired easily, dries easily and consequently tends to build static electricity.
Some of the advantages of polyester are excellent color retention and resistance to moths and mildew, bu it does tend to lose some strength when exposed to prolonged sunlight. It irons well and has good crease retention, but extreme care must be used when ironing 100 percent polyester table linen, since the fibers melt at 480 degrees fahrenheit. Some polyester manufacturers have modified the fiber so that its texture resembles cotton, and its absorption qualities are improved.
Polyester table linen can be woven in rice, damask and check patterns, and there is a large selection of colors from which to choose.
Unfortunately, polyester cannot be repaired easily, decorator folds cannot always be accomplished, washers and dryers must be under loaded for best laundering results, and snagging in washer and dryers occurs if cylinder has any rough surfaces. Also, not all have the feel of cotton, and starch can be tricky.
With proper care, however, polyester table linen can make a very pleasing appearance in your dining room setting.
If polyester table linen is your choice, your linen supplier should be able to help you sort out the different polyester fabrics to suit your needs, and your detergent supplier can help with laundering procedures.
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This site is managed and maintained by ImageMATTE.