Will Microfiber fabric's performance deteriorate due to excessive water absorption?

Due to their extremely fine diameter (usually less than 1 denier) and special surface structure, microfibers have a large specific surface area and capillary action, which can quickly absorb water.
This property makes microfibers show excellent water absorption in applications such as cleaning cloths and towels.
However, excessive water absorption may affect certain properties, as follows:

Possible performance degradation caused by excessive water absorption
Changes in physical properties
Reduced softness: When microfibers absorb a large amount of water, the friction between the fibers increases, which may cause the fabric to become hard as a whole, affecting its softness and comfort.
Weakened elasticity: Being wet for a long time may change the molecular structure inside the fiber, resulting in reduced elasticity, especially in the case of frequent washing and use.
Reduced tear resistance: Excessive humidity will weaken the strength of the fiber and increase the risk of tearing or breakage, especially in high-intensity use scenarios.
Functional impact
Reduced cleaning efficiency: The cleaning ability of microfibers depends on their capillary action and electrostatic adsorption. If the fiber is completely saturated, the adsorption capacity will be significantly reduced, affecting the cleaning effect.
Poor breathability: Excessive water absorption may cause the gaps between fibers to be filled with water, hindering air circulation and thus reducing the breathability of the fabric.
Extended drying time: Excessive water absorption will lead to slower drying speed, which may cause mold growth or odor problems, especially in humid environments.
Impact on long-term durability
Accelerated fiber aging: Long-term exposure to high humidity environments or frequent water absorption/drying cycles may cause aging of fiber materials, especially for polyester or polyamide microfibers.
Reduced dyeing stability: Excessive water absorption may cause dye migration or fading, especially in the case of poor quality dyeing processes.

How to reduce the performance degradation caused by excessive water absorption
In order to reduce the negative impact of excessive water absorption on the performance of microfibers, the following aspects can be taken into consideration:
Optimize material design

Mixed fiber ratio: By adjusting the ratio of polyester and polyamide (such as 80:20 or 70:30), the balance between water absorption and durability can be controlled.
Coating treatment: Adding a waterproof or hydrophobic coating to the surface of microfibers can limit excessive water absorption while retaining its cleaning properties.
Improve production process
Increase fiber density: By increasing fiber density, the wear resistance and tear resistance of fabrics can be enhanced, and good performance can be maintained even in the water-absorbed state.
Strengthen finishing: Antistatic, antibacterial or mildew-proof treatment can be used to reduce the side effects caused by excessive water absorption.
Proper use and maintenance
Avoid long-term soaking: Try to avoid soaking microfiber products in water for a long time to reduce the possibility of water saturation.
Timely drying: Dry in time after use to avoid the fiber being in a wet state for a long time.
Gentle cleaning: Use neutral detergent and avoid high-temperature cleaning or strong rubbing to protect the fiber structure.

Considerations for different application scenarios
Cleaning use
For products that require high water absorption, such as cleaning cloths, excessive water absorption may lead to reduced cleaning efficiency. Therefore, it is recommended to use it in batches or wring it out regularly to restore performance.
Apparel use
In sportswear or outdoor clothing, excessive water absorption may cause the fabric to become heavier and less breathable, affecting wearing comfort. Therefore, such products are usually treated with waterproof or quick-drying.
Home use
In towels or bedding, excessive water absorption may lead to prolonged drying time and easy breeding of bacteria. Therefore, it is more appropriate to choose microfiber products with antibacterial treatment.

Microfiber fabrics may indeed cause certain performance degradation due to excessive water absorption, such as reduced softness, elasticity and cleaning efficiency. However, these negative effects can be effectively reduced by optimizing material design, improving production processes, and correct use and maintenance methods. In addition, when choosing microfiber products, appropriate materials and treatment processes should be selected according to specific uses to ensure