flannelette

Flannelette is a soft, brushed fabric commonly made from cotton or a cotton blend. It has a fuzzy, raised surface created by a finishing process that raises short fibers, producing a warm, comfortable feel against the skin. The term is regional in use: in British English, flannelette typically refers to a lightweight, brushed cotton fabric used for bed linens and sleepwear, while flannel is a heavier fabric with a similar nap, and can be made from wool, cotton, or synthetic fibers.

Manufacture: Flannelette is usually woven from carded cotton yarns and then finished by mechanical brushing or napping on one or both sides. The brushing lifts short fibers to form a nap that improves softness and insulation. The weight and weave tightness vary, influencing warmth, drape, and durability. Patterns are common, including solid colors, checks, and stripes.

Uses and care: It is widely used for bed sheets, pillowcases, nightwear, and lightweight shirts. Care typically involves machine washing in warm or cold water; dry on low heat or line dry to preserve the nap. Overheating during drying or ironing can flatten the nap and reduce softness, and repeated washing may cause some shrinkage.