What is flannel fabric?
Flannel is a woven fabric that has been brushed to raise the fibers into a soft, fuzzy nap. The brushing is what makes flannel — not the weave or the fiber. Traditional flannel is made from wool or cotton. Synthetic flannel exists but does not have the same warmth, breathability, or feel as the natural fiber versions.
What is flannel?
Flannel is a soft woven fabric that has been brushed on one or both sides to raise loose fiber ends into a fuzzy surface. This raised nap is what gives flannel its distinctive soft feel and warmth — the fibers trap air close to the body. Flannel can be made from any woven fiber, but cotton flannel and wool flannel are the traditional and highest-quality versions. The brushing process is applied after weaving, making flannel a finish type rather than a specific weave structure.
What is flannel fabric made of?
Traditional flannel is made from cotton or wool. Wool flannel is heavier and more insulating, used in tailored trousers, jackets, and suits. It has excellent drape and holds its shape well. Cotton flannel is softer, more affordable, and easier to care for — it is the standard material for flannel shirts, pajamas, and bed sheets. Synthetic flannel is also produced (typically from polyester) but lacks the breathability and feel of natural fiber flannel.
Is flannel the same as plaid?
No. Flannel is a fabric; plaid is a pattern. The two are frequently confused because flannel shirts are very often made in plaid patterns, but they describe different things entirely. A flannel shirt can be solid, striped, or plaid. A plaid pattern can be woven into cotton, wool, denim, or any other fabric — and has nothing to do with the brushed finish that defines flannel. "Flannel plaid shirt" correctly names both the fabric (brushed cotton or wool) and the pattern (crossed stripes).
Is flannel warm?
Yes. The brushed surface of flannel traps air between the raised fibers, providing insulation. Cotton flannel is significantly warmer than plain-weave cotton of the same weight. Wool flannel is warmer still. Flannel bed sheets trap body heat more effectively than standard percale, which is why they are a common choice for cold climates. The warmth comes from the nap, not from any particular fiber — though natural fibers (wool, cotton) regulate temperature better than synthetic flannel.
Is flannel a natural fabric?
It depends on the fiber. Flannel is a process applied to woven fabric — if the base fabric is cotton or wool, the flannel is natural. Cotton flannel and wool flannel are natural fabrics. Polyester flannel is synthetic. When buying flannel shirts or bed sheets, check the fiber content label: "100% cotton" or "100% wool" indicates a natural fabric; "polyester" or "microfiber" indicates synthetic.
How do you wash flannel?
Cotton flannel can be machine washed in cold or warm water and tumble dried on low. Avoid high heat — it accelerates pilling and can cause shrinkage in the first few washes. Wash flannel before wearing for the first time to remove any finishing chemicals and pre-shrink the fabric. Wool flannel should be dry cleaned or hand washed in cold water and laid flat to dry. Cotton flannel softens further with each wash.
What is the difference between flannel and fleece?
Flannel is a woven fabric (cotton or wool) that has been brushed to create a soft nap. Fleece is a knitted fabric, almost always made from polyester, that mimics the feel of wool. Flannel breathes and is a natural fiber when made from cotton or wool. Fleece does not breathe well, is synthetic, and sheds microplastics with washing. Flannel is better for shirts and bedding; fleece is used primarily in outdoor and athletic outerwear where synthetic insulation is the design goal.
Every brand in The Plain Thread directory uses natural fibers. Browse wool and cotton clothing brands.
Browse natural fiber brands