Why Do Contact Surface Textiles Matter

The surface and material of which a person is sitting on is incredibly important in reducing the risk of pressure injuries. With some textiles being specifically designed for pressure care.

Here at Seating Matters, all of our products have been clinically designed with the use of healthcare & medical coated fabrics from the industry trusted Dartex range, part of Trelleborg Engineered Coated Fabrics. Using the Dartex Performance range ensures that our products have maximum functionality with all round performance, including provide fluid proof, virus proof barriers for infection control.

Key Benefits of Dartex Performance

• 2 & 4 way stretch
• Bio-compatible
• Fungistatic
• Water resistant
• Wipe clean
• Machine Washable
• Eco flame retardant
  
  

Originally developed during the 1980's specifically for the NHS, Dartex's Performance has since been the polyurethane fabric of choice for the healthcare & medical sector.

Key Benefits of Polyurethane Rather than PVC

• Higher Moisture Vapour Permeability (MVP)
• Lower Friction
• High Stretch
• Durability

PVC coated textiles can be found in the healthcare sector, often found as a material of choice for mattress bases, wheelchair seating and chair covers. Whilst it is a cost effective method for mass production the properties of this material does not make it best suited for clinical medical products, there are some draw backs. PVC is not a breathable material, resulting in increased moisture build up.

Unlike PVC fabrics, Polyurethane (PU) fabrics offers higher moisture vapour permeability (MVP) that allow moisture vapours from the individual to pass through the contact surface and away from the patient with ease. Further comparison between the two fabrics polyurethane offers low friction which are ideal for areas of the body that are prone to skin rubbing against the contact surface to help prevent skin shears.