The spelling of "durable press" may seem confusing to some, but it's all about its phonetic transcription. In IPA, it is spelled as /ˈdʊr.ə.bəl ˈprɛs/. The stress is on the first syllable, with the vowel sound in "durable" pronounced as "uh" or "uh-r" and the sound of "press" as "ehs." The phrase refers to the ability of certain fabrics or textiles to resist wrinkles, shrinkage, and creases, making them long-lasting and low-maintenance.
Durable press is a term commonly used in the textile industry to refer to a specific fabric finishing process that enhances the fabric's longevity and crease resistance. The term is typically associated with garments and textiles that require minimal maintenance and retain their smooth appearance for an extended period, even after multiple washes and uses.
The durable press treatment involves subjecting the fabric to various chemical processes that aim to impact its molecular structure, making it less prone to wrinkling and stretching. This treatment usually involves the application of heat and pressure, which helps to set the fabric in a wrinkle-resistant state.
Fabrics that undergo the durable press process typically exhibit properties that make them more resistant to wrinkling, shrinking, and stretching. As a result, they require less ironing or pressing after laundering, thereby reducing the time and effort involved in garment care.
Common examples of durable press fabrics include polyester blends and cotton blends, which are widely used in the production of clothing items, such as dress shirts, trousers, skirts, and uniforms. These fabrics are designed to withstand repeated washings, maintaining their shape and appearance while also offering improved comfort and durability.
Overall, durable press fabrics offer practicality and convenience to consumers by reducing the need for extensive care and maintenance, making them suitable for everyday use and long-term durability.
The word "durable press" has its roots in the textile industry. The term "durable" means long-lasting or able to withstand wear and tear, while "press" refers to the process of pressing fabric to create a desired finish or effect.
The concept of durable press emerged in the mid-20th century when advances were made in textile technology to create fabrics that were wrinkle-resistant and required minimal ironing. These fabrics could retain their smooth appearance even after multiple uses and washes.
The term itself was first used by the American company the Chemical Fabrics Corporation in the 1950s. They developed a chemical treatment for textiles that provided wrinkle resistance, and named it "Durable Press", highlighting its durability and pressed appearance. Over time, "durable press" became a commonly used term in the textile industry to describe any fabric or garment with wrinkle-resistant properties.