What Is Polyester Fleece Fabric? Properties, Applications & Wholesale Insights

Polyester fleece has become a staple fabric in the global textile market, particularly for cold-weather apparel, home textiles, and outdoor gear. Known for its warmth, softness, and affordability, polyester fleece is a high-performance synthetic material widely used in both mass-market and specialty products.

In this guide, we explore what polyester fleece is, how it’s made, and why it’s a valuable material for B2B textile sourcing and product development.

1. What Is Polyester Fleece?

Polyester fleece is a soft, insulating fabric made from 100% polyester fibers, typically brushed on one or both sides to create a plush, fuzzy surface that traps warmth. Originally developed in the 1970s as a lightweight alternative to wool, fleece has become a go-to material for cold-weather products.

Key characteristics:

• 100% synthetic (polyethylene terephthalate)
• Brushed surface (usually double-sided)
• Lightweight but highly insulating
• Moisture-wicking and breathable
• Non-fraying and anti-wrinkle

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2. How Is It Made?

The manufacturing process of polyester fleece typically includes:

• Knitting polyester yarn into a lightweight fabric (usually circular knit)
• Brushing one or both sides to raise fibers and create a fuzzy nap
• Shearing to even out the texture
• Optional treatments like anti-pill coating or flame retardancy

Modern fleece can also be made from recycled PET bottles, adding eco-friendly value for sustainability-focused brands.

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3. Types of Polyester Fleece

Polyester fleece comes in several variations, depending on finish, weight, and use:

Type	Features	Applications
Polar Fleece	Thick, soft, double-sided brushed	Jackets, blankets, pet wear
Microfleece	Ultra-light, single-layer, fine nap	Linings, baby clothing, lightweight throws
Anti-pill Fleece	Treated to reduce pilling after washing	Garments, home textiles
Sherpa Fleece	Textured, wool-like surface	Lining for coats, blankets
Bonded Fleece	Two layers fused for structure & warmth	Outdoor gear, hoodies

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4. Advantages of Polyester Fleece

For both manufacturers and consumers, polyester fleece offers a balance of performance and cost-efficiency:

• ✅ Excellent warmth-to-weight ratio
• ✅ Quick-drying and moisture-wicking
• ✅ Hypoallergenic and easy to wash
• ✅ Durable and wrinkle-resistant
• ✅ Versatile across apparel and home markets

From a sourcing standpoint, fleece allows for bulk dyeing, sublimation printing, and custom surface treatments, making it highly adaptable.

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5. Common Applications by Industry

Apparel

• Jackets, sweatshirts, lounge sets, thermal base layers
• Pet apparel, gloves, scarves, hats

Home Textiles

• Fleece blankets, throws, baby swaddles
• Mattress pads, heated blanket covers

Outdoor & Sports

• Hiking and camping gear
• Equestrian blankets
• Sleeping bag linings

Promotional & Retail

• Custom logo throws
• Branded leisurewear

Fleece products are particularly popular in fall/winter seasonal campaigns, and are ideal for high-margin, soft goods in e-commerce.

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6. B2B Considerations for Polyester Fleece

When sourcing or developing fleece-based products, consider the following:

• Weight (GSM): Ranges from 150 GSM (microfleece) to 350+ GSM (polar fleece)
• Anti-pilling treatment: Especially important for apparel and heavy-use items
• Fire-retardant options: Required for specific export markets
• Color customization: Pantone matching available for OEM production
• Certifications: OEKO-TEX®, GRS (if recycled), REACH-compliant for EU markets

Bulk production typically starts at 1,000 meters per color, with lead times of 15–30 days depending on finishing requirements.

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Conclusion

Polyester fleece is one of the most versatile and scalable fabrics in the textile industry. Its lightweight warmth, easy care, and affordability make it ideal for a wide range of end products. For wholesalers, manufacturers, and private label brands, understanding the types and qualities of fleece opens up significant opportunities in seasonal and cold-weather product lines—particularly when paired with sustainability or anti-pilling features.