How to Care for Nylon Fabrics: The Ultimate Guide to Maintaining All Types of Nylon (Including Tricot!)

Did You Know? Nylon’s Tough as a Buffalo, But Needs a Gentle Hand

Ever tried wrangling a muddy tent, only to realize your trusty nylon’s starting to look more like a tired coyote than a wild mustang? Or maybe your favorite gym shorts have lost their snap? Nylon’s one of the most versatile, hardworking fabrics in the American wardrobe-strong as a mountain pony, smooth as a river stone, but it sure needs the right care to keep it running for the long haul. Whether you’re dealing with outdoor gear, activewear, home furnishings, or the silky-smooth nylon tricot, this here’s the most complete, detailed, and downright helpful guide you’ll find on how to care for every kind of nylon under the sun.

What in Tarnation is Nylon Fabric?

Let’s gather ‘round the campfire and get acquainted with our fabric friend. Nylon is a synthetic fiber born right here in the USA back in the 1930s, and it’s been making waves ever since. It’s tough, stretchy, and doesn’t mind a little rain; no wonder it’s found everywhere from high-tech jackets to fishing lines.

Types of Nylon Fabric: Meet the Family

·        Nylon 6 and Nylon 6,6: These are your everyday workhorses. Found in clothing, bags, industrial ropes, and even carpets. They’re strong, resilient, and ready for any rodeo.

·        Ripstop Nylon: Got yourself a tent, a parachute, or a windbreaker? That’s ripstop-woven with a crosshatch pattern to stop tears quicker than a cowboy ropes a calf.

·        Stretch Nylon: This one’s got moves! Blended with spandex, it’s the fabric behind your yoga pants and swimsuits-flexible, quick-drying, and always ready for action.

·        Microfiber Nylon: Softer than a prairie breeze, this lightweight wonder is perfect for home furnishings and cleaning cloths.

·        Nylon Tricot: The new star of the roundup! This silky, stretchy, and resilient knit is a favorite for lingerie, activewear, pajamas, medical garments, and even costumes. More on this beauty in a minute.

Explore more about the different types of nylon in our Nylon Underwear Collection and Sportswear Collection.

Why Bother? The Importance of Proper Care

You wouldn’t leave your horse out in a hailstorm, so don’t mistreat your nylon! Proper care keeps your gear looking sharp, your clothes fitting right, and your home textiles feeling fresh. Skip the right care, and you’ll end up with saggy, faded, or downright busted nylon faster than you can say “whoops.”

Learn more about why fabric care matters in this article.

1. Types of Nylon Fabrics: Know Your Herd

 

2. Special Spotlight: Nylon Tricot Fabric-The Silky, Stretchy All-Star

What Makes Nylon Tricot So Darn Special?

Nylon tricot is a type of warp-knit fabric with a unique zigzag weave-smooth as a creek stone on one side, textured on the other. It’s got a delicate, silky feel, but don’t let that fool you: this fabric is mighty tough, stretchy, and holds its shape like a champ. It’s the go-to for comfy nightwear, outerwear, pajamas, dresses, blouses, and even medical garments like compression stockings and braces. Crafters love it for making blankets, soft toys, and dolls, too.

Key Features of Nylon Tricot

·        Silky Texture: Feels gentle and smooth against the skin.

·        Stretchy: Moves with your body, perfect for close-fitting clothes.

·        Antimicrobial: Often treated to resist germs and mildew.

·        Shape Retention: Keeps its form and color, even after many washes.

·        Durable: Handles regular use, chemicals, and roughhousing.

·        Vintage Appeal: Offers a streamlined, intricate look that never goes out of style.

·        Versatile: Used in fashion, lifestyle, medical, and crafting applications.

Find tricot items in our Collection.

3. General Care Tips for All Nylon Fabrics: The Golden Rules

Washing: Keep It Cool, Cowboy

·        Cold or Lukewarm Water: Hot water’s a no-go. Stick to cold or lukewarm-nylon’s not a fan of heat.

·        Gentle Detergent: Use something mild. Harsh stuff will break down those fibers faster than a stampede.

·        No Bleach, No Fabric Softener: Bleach will turn your nylon brittle, and fabric softener can gum up the works.

·        Hand Wash or Gentle Cycle: If you can, hand wash. If not, use the gentle or delicate cycle on your machine.

·        Laundry Bag: For tricot and delicate nylon, toss items in a mesh laundry bag to prevent snags.

For a deep dive, see our Best Detergents for Nylon.

Drying: Don’t Roast Your Nylon

·        Air Dry is Best: Lay it flat on a towel or hang it up-just keep it out of direct sunlight.

·        Low Heat Only: If you must use a dryer, set it to low. High heat will melt or shrink your nylon quicker than a desert sun.

Storage: Fold, Don’t Hang

·        Fold or Roll: Hanging heavy nylon will stretch it out. Fold or roll it up and stash it somewhere cool and dry.

·        Keep Away from Sun and Damp: Sun will fade your colors, and dampness can lead to mildew.

How Often Should You Wash Nylon?

·        Activewear: After every sweaty workout.

·        Jackets and Outerwear: Only when dirty or at the end of the season.

·        Home Textiles: Every few months, or when they start looking a little rough.

4. How to Care for Nylon Tricot: The Silky Secret

Washing Nylon Tricot

·        Check the Care Label: Always start here-manufacturers know best.

·        Machine Wash: Use a gentle cycle with cold or lukewarm water.

·        Mild Detergent: Choose a detergent for delicates-no bleach or fabric softener.

·        Laundry Bag: Protect your tricot from snags and stretching by using a mesh bag.

·        Hand Wash: For extra-delicate pieces, hand washing is the safest bet.

Stain Removal

·        Act Fast: Blot stains with a soft cloth-don’t rub.

·        Gentle Soap: Use a dab of mild dish soap or a gentle stain remover.

·        Test First: Always try your stain-fighting strategy on a hidden area.

Drying Nylon Tricot

·        Air Dry: Lay flat on a towel and reshape gently.

·        Tumble Dry: Only if the care label says so, and always on low heat.

·        Avoid Hanging: Wet tricot can stretch out if hung.

Ironing and Wrinkle Removal

·        Low Heat Only: If you must iron, use the lowest setting and a pressing cloth.

·        Steam: A steamer or a steam-filled bathroom works wonders for wrinkles.

Storage

·        Cool, Dry Place: Keep tricot away from sunlight and moisture.

·        Fold, Don’t Hang: Prevents stretching and keeps the fabric looking sharp.

Longevity Tips

·        Avoid Overwashing: Only wash when needed-too much washing wears down the fibers.

·        No Harsh Chemicals: Skip the bleach, acetone, and alcohol.

·        Handle with Care: Don’t overload the washer or dryer.

5. How to Care for Nylon Clothing: From Gym Shorts to Fancy Lingerie

Activewear: Keep It Fresh, Keep It Fit

·        Gentle Wash, Cold Water: Keeps the stretch and color alive.

·        Turn Inside Out: Protects the outside from friction.

·        No Dryer Sheets: They leave a residue that messes with moisture-wicking.

See our Activewear Collection and Tricot collection for more.

Lingerie: Handle with Care

·        Hand Wash is Best: Treat it like the delicate treasure it is.

·        No Wringing: Squeeze out water gently, then lay flat to dry.

Get more delicate  tips for big and tall man's clothing.

Sportswear: Stain-Busting and Breathability

·        Spot Clean First: For sweat stains, use a gentle stain remover before washing.

·        Don’t Overwash: Too much washing wears out the fabric’s breathability.

6. Caring for Nylon Upholstery and Home Items: Keep Your Couch Comfy

Upholstery: Spot Clean Like a Pro

·        Mild Soap and Water: Dab, don’t scrub. Nylon doesn’t like rough treatment.

·        Avoid Harsh Chemicals: They’ll fade and weaken the fabric.

·        Blot, Don’t Rub: For spills, blot with a clean towel.

Drapes/Curtains: Let the Light In, Keep the Dirt Out

·        Vacuum Regularly: Use a soft brush attachment.

·        Wash Gently: Remove hooks, wash in cold water, and air dry.

For more, see the benefits of nylon underwear.

7. Caring for Outdoor Gear Made from Nylon: Ready for the Wild

Tents: Don’t Let Mold Move In

·        Shake Off Dirt: Brush off mud and leaves before packing up.

·        Spot Clean: Use mild soap and a sponge.

·        Dry Completely: Never pack a wet tent-mildew will set up camp.

Jackets & Backpacks: Keep ‘Em Trail-Ready

·        Empty Pockets: Before washing, always check for forgotten snacks.

·        Gentle Wash: Use a front-loader or hand wash to avoid snags.

·        Air Dry: Hang in a breezy spot, out of the sun.

8. Repairing Nylon Fabrics: Fix It Before It Fails

Patch Kits for Ripstop Nylon

·        Clean and Dry: Make sure the area’s clean.

·        Apply Patch: Stick-on or iron-on patches work great for small holes.

Sewing Nylon Fabric

·        Use Nylon Thread: It stretches with the fabric.

·        Sharp Needle: A fine, sharp needle makes for a clean repair.

Quick Fixes for Snags

·        Don’t Pull: Use a needle to gently work the snag back inside.

9. What to Avoid When Caring for Nylon: Don’t Make These Rookie Mistakes

·        High Heat: Melts nylon faster than butter on a skillet.

·        Harsh Chemicals: Bleach, acetone, and alcohol are all bad news.

·        Overloading the Washer: Too many clothes at once leads to friction and snags.

·        Improper Storage: Don’t leave nylon in direct sun or damp places.

10. Environmental Impact: Is Nylon Sustainable? The Honest Truth

Nylon’s tough, but Mother Earth’s tougher. Traditional nylon comes from oil, and it doesn’t break down easy, which means it sticks around in landfills. But there’s hope on the horizon:

·        Recycled Nylon: Made from old fishing nets and fabric scraps, it’s a greener choice.

·        Eco-Friendly Brands: Some companies now make nylon with less water and energy.

·        Recycle or Upcycle: Old nylon gear can become new bags, rugs, or even art projects.

Learn more about sustainability in our go-to manual for big and tall dudes. 

FAQ: Your Burning Nylon Questions Answered

What’s the best way to wash nylon fabric?
Use cold water and a gentle detergent, washing by hand or on a delicate machine cycle.

Can nylon fabric be ironed?
Yes, but only on the lowest setting and always with a pressing cloth. Steaming is safer for removing wrinkles.

How do I get rid of stains on nylon fabric?
Spot clean with mild detergent and a soft cloth. Avoid harsh scrubbing or bleach.

Can I machine dry nylon fabrics?
Yes, but use the lowest heat setting. Air drying is best to prevent shrinking or melting.

How do I store nylon clothing to keep it from stretching?
Fold or roll your items and store them in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. Hanging can lead to stretching, especially for heavy garments.

Is nylon breathable like cotton?
Nylon isn’t as breathable as cotton. It can trap heat and moisture, so it’s often blended with other fibers or designed with mesh panels for comfort in activewear. For more, check Nylon vs. Cotton Guide.

Does nylon shrink or stretch over time?
Nylon can shrink if exposed to high heat during washing or drying. It’s also naturally stretchy, especially when blended with spandex. To shrink nylon intentionally, use hot water and high heat, but monitor closely to avoid damage.

Is nylon waterproof or water-resistant?
Most nylon fabrics are water-resistant, and ripstop nylon is often treated for extra water repellency. However, not all nylon is fully waterproof. 

Is nylon fabric eco-friendly?
Traditional nylon is made from petroleum and is not biodegradable. However, recycled nylon options are available and more sustainable.

Is nylon safe for sensitive skin?
Nylon is generally safe and non-irritating, but some people may prefer natural fibers or blends for extra comfort.

Can I dye nylon fabric at home?
Yes, nylon takes dye well. Use a dye formulated for synthetics, like Rit DyeMore, and follow the instructions carefully. 

How do I fix a nylon zipper that’s stuck or broken?
Lubricate a stuck zipper with a graphite pencil or a little soap. For broken zippers, replacement is often the best option. 

How do I patch a hole in nylon jackets or tents?
Use a nylon patch kit or iron-on patch for small holes. Clean and dry the area first, then follow the kit instructions.

Is nylon good for winter or hot weather?
Nylon is wind-resistant and often used as a shell in winter gear. However, it can trap heat, making it less comfortable in hot, humid conditions unless ventilated.

Is nylon fire resistant?
Nylon is not inherently fire-resistant, but flame-retardant treatments can be applied. Always keep nylon away from open flames.

Is nylon made from petroleum?
Yes, traditional nylon is derived from petrochemicals. Recycled nylon uses pre-existing materials to reduce environmental impact.

Is nylon pricey compared to other fabrics?
Nylon is generally affordable, but specialty weaves or branded treatments (like waterproofing) can increase the price.

Conclusion: Keep Your Nylon Kicking for Years

Nylon’s a real workhorse, but even the toughest cowboy needs a little care. Wash it right, dry it gentle, store it smart, and fix it quick-do all that, and your nylon gear will stick with you through thick and thin.

So, what are you waiting for? Give your nylon the love it deserves, and it’ll keep you looking sharp, feeling comfy, and ready for whatever the day throws your way! For more tips and tricks, check out our Nylon vs Nylon Tricot fabric and keep your wardrobe and gear in trailblazing shape.