Source:Textile Review

This article reviews the special types of finishes andwashes given to knitted garments. The merits and demerits of the varioussofteners and their suitability for knitted garments is discussed herein. Theproper procedure and precautions to be exercised have also been highlighted. A number of advantages accrue from softening, whichhave been mentioned. The special types of washes given to knit garments havebeen highlighted.

Softening and washing treatments are important for knittedgoods besides wovens. These treatments do impart the desired effect on thefabrics. Besides the normal types of softening and washing treatments, specialtypes that are suitable for knits are discussed in this paper. Various types ofsofteners such as anionic, non-ionic, cationic and reactive softeners are used.Each of these have a particular effect on the fabrics. Though there areadvantages in these methods, there are problems encountered. These arediscussed in this paper.

Softening of knitted goods

To soften the knitted goods, softening is done by usingsoftening agents. Because it is tubular form, normally exhaust method isapplied using winch machine softeners like anionic, nonionic, cationic andreactive softeners may be used. Reactive softeners produce permanent softeningeffect. Silicone emulsion is also used as softening agent for knitted goods.

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About the Authors

The authors are associated with NIFT TEA College of KnitwearFashion, Tiruppur

Originallypublished in TextileReview; July 2009