What is the difference between spunlace and spunbond nonwoven fabrics?
- dkfiber2004
- 5 days ago
- 2 min read
Do you know the difference between spunbond nonwoven and spunlace nonwoven fabrics?
In the industrial textile market, spunbond and spunlace are two of the most widely used types of nonwoven fabrics. While they may look similar at first glance, their manufacturing processes, physical properties, and end-use applications are clearly distinct.
In this post, we will explore the key differences between spunbond and spunlace nonwoven fabrics.
1. Difference in Manufacturing Process
The most significant difference between spunbond and spunlace nonwoven fabrics lies in their manufacturing processes.
Spunbond is produced through a continuous process in which long filament fibers are directly extruded, laid into a web, and thermally bonded. This method is highly efficient and well-suited for mass production.
In contrast, spunlace involves entangling short staple fibers within a web by applying high-pressure water jets. This results in a more complex and delicate production process.
Category | Spunbond | Spunlace |
Process Method | Melting polymer and extruding filaments, then thermal bonding (Long fiber) | Entangling short fibers with high-pressure water jets (Short fiber) |
Bonding Method | Thermal bonding | Water jet entanglement |
Fiber Type | Mainly PP, PET filament | Mainly viscose, PET staple fiber |
Production Speed | Fast (suitable for mass production) | Slow (used for precision products) |
2. Physical Properties and Product Characteristics
The second key difference lies in their physical properties and product characteristics.
Spunbond fabric is made by thermally bonding long filament fibers, which results in excellent strength, heat resistance, and shape retention.
These features make it well-suited for use in packaging and industrial materials.On the other hand, spunlace fabric is widely used in skin-contact applications due to its soft texture and high absorbency.
Category | Spunbond | Spunlace |
Physical Strength | Strong and highly durable | Soft and flexible |
Thickness | Adjustable in various ranges | Thin and dense |
Breathability | Good | Excellent |
Touch | Slightly coarse | Soft (similar to cotton) |
Absorbency | Low | Excellent (has absorbent properties) |
3. Comparison of Main Applications
The third difference lies in their primary applications.
Spunbond fabric offers excellent durability but tends to be relatively stiff, less absorbent, and has coarser filaments, resulting in a less soft touch.
These characteristics make it ideal for industrial and hygiene products where structural stability and cost efficiency are key.
In contrast, spunlace fabric has a higher production cost and is therefore used in premium products that require softness and skin-friendliness.
Application | Spunbond Nonwoven | Spunlace Nonwoven |
Hygiene | Mask outer layer, diaper backsheet | Wet wipes, feminine hygiene product topsheet |
Medical | Surgical gowns, protective clothing | Dressings, medical gauze |
Industrial | Agricultural nonwoven, geotextile for construction | Premium cleaning cloths, industrial wipers |
Consumer Goods | Nonwoven shopping bags, bedding interliners | Facial cleansing pads, cosmetic mask sheets |
Each nonwoven fabric has its own distinct advantages, so it is important to choose the right type based on the intended application.
If strength and cost-efficiency are the priorities, spunbond nonwoven is the better option. If softness and absorbency are more critical, spunlace nonwoven is recommended.
DK FIBER supplies high-quality GRS-certified polyester staple fiber, suitable for both spunbond and spunlace production.
If you are looking for polyester staple fiber tailored for spunbond or spunlace manufacturing, feel free to contact us anytime.
