Performance Fabric
Olefin
The fiber behind many performance fabrics — inherently hydrophobic, colorfast, and heat sensitive.
Independent homeowner reference. Total Home Fusion is not affiliated with Olefin. Always follow the tag and the manufacturer's own instructions.
Overview
Olefin is a fiber, not a brand, and it explains why several performance fabrics behave the way they do. It repels water at the fiber level and resists fading, but it does not like heat: hot water, steam, and hot dryers can permanently glaze it.
Background
A polypropylene-based synthetic fiber, usually solution-dyed, used across indoor and outdoor upholstery.
Company Information
- Type
- Polypropylene fiber
- Found in
- Revolution, Bella-Dura, many indoor-outdoor lines
Product Categories
- Upholstery
- Indoor-outdoor fabric
- Rugs
Construction Methods
- Solution-dyed polypropylene yarn
Materials Commonly Used
- Olefin
Cleaning Recommendations
- Cool water and mild soap; avoid hot water entirely
Care Recommendations
- Vacuum weekly; blot spills promptly even though they will not soak in fast
Protection Tips
- No topical protector needed
Florida Considerations
- Excellent humidity performance — it does not hold moisture the way natural fibers do
Common Problems
- Heat glazing
- Oil-based stains, which are its actual weakness
Common Mistakes
- Steam cleaning
- Assuming oil stains behave like water stains on this fiber