Does more polyamide make microfiber more absorbent?
Aug 17, 2026
Why polyamide helps absorbency
Polyester is hydrophobic - it gives microfiber its structure, scrubbing power and durability, but it doesn't drink water.
Polyamide (nylon) is hydrophilic - it's the component that actually pulls in and holds water, and also makes the cloth softer.
So within the normal cleaning-microfiber range, 70/30 (70% polyester / 30% polyamide) is more absorbent and plusher than 80/20, and 85/15 beats 90/10 or 100% polyester.
The usual trade-off
|
Blend |
Absorbency |
Softness |
Durability |
Cost |
Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
70/30 |
Highest |
Softest |
Slightly less rugged |
More expensive |
Car detailing, glass, delicate surfaces |
|
85/15 |
Good |
Medium |
Very durable |
Cheaper |
General cleaning, dusting, bulk use |
|
90/10 / 100% PET |
Lowest |
Firmer / can be scratchy |
Most durable |
Cheapest |
Non-split apparel, low-grade cloths |
More polyamide = more thirsty, but also more expensive and a bit less hard-wearing.
Important caveats (this is where people get confused)
Fiber split quality is more important than polyamide ratio. Our well‑split 85/15 microfiber cloth offers great absorbency and good durability. High GSM brings higher water holding capacity. Higher polyamide does not guarantee better performance without proper split process.
