Crypton was birthed in 1993,  over 17 years ago in a basement home in Michigan. The founders Craig and Randy Rubin set out to create a new generation of textiles that were moisture-resistant and easy-to-clean, yet still stylish, breathable and soft to the touch.Crypton is still based in Michigan in West Bloomfield, with a sustainable manufacturing facility in Kings Mountain , North Carolina.

What makes a High Performance Textile and why is Crypton different than other manufacturers of this type of textile.

First, let’s look at the characteristics of a High Performance Textile.

• Repelling capabilities. -The textile must resist the absorption or passage of liquids or other substances. The barrier must be able to keep off or out the substances it comes in contact with.
• Stain Release-Must be able to be cleaned so that the stains can be lifted from the textile in a way that does not damage the fabric.
• Moisture Barrier- The textile must protect the components it covers. It needs to keep moisture from degrading the foam or material it covers.
• High Abrasion Resistance – The textile must be able to withstand a large amount of friction and rubbing from heavy use with low fiber damage. Usually, a minimum  of 50,000 double rubs.

So How does Crypton excel in the High Performance Textile arena? Why Crypton over other High Performance Textiles?

Most any High Abrasion Resistant Fabric can be made into a Crypton. It is not a fabric or finish it is a Process!
Most other manufacturers of High Performance fabrics make a finish. A finish as you know is something that can be taken off or something that wears off over time. The Crypton process makes the textile a new product.

 It actually changes the molecular structure of the textile!

So while other manufactures products wear down over time, Crypton actually continues to repel liquids and substances long after the other manufacturers product have failed. Crypton is the only textile solution offering permanent stain, moisture, mildew, bacteria and odor-resistant protection.

 It is actually bathed in a special solution, then ran through wheels to smooth it out. Finally, it is heated in an oven at 325* or higher. The textile then becomes a permanent barrier.

Crypton textiles are very easy to clean. It has excellent stain release properties.

• Use an enzyme  base detergent such as Tide or Crypton’s upholstery cleaner.
• Apply sparingly and rub with a SOFT bristle brush.
• Don’t forget to Rinse!
• Upholstery should be cleaned once – twice per year in addition to spot cleaning to maintain a clean and healthy environment.

Did you know that Crypton is bleach Cleanable!

It actually performs as a Solid Surface.

It is CEPA approved and is the ONLY disinfect-able fabric in the World!

Crypton offers free of charge to their customers a program called Crypton Care. They offer Free training sessions for maintenance employees and are available to answer any cleaning or care questions you may have FREE of Charge. Professional cleaning services are also available with Crypton Care at a charge determined by the size of the job.

Something that really makes Crypton stand out is it’s Moisture Barrier. It is the Only fabric on the market currently that can warrant its backing with a guarantee not to allow passage of liquids. This is HUGE especially in Healthcare and Educational environments. This  actually allows for cleaning and disinfecting the textile, leaving the owner with peace of mind that the product is clean and germs have not been transmitted to surfaces below. 

Speaking of germs lets talk about antimicrobial versus antibacterial. What is the difference and why is using one property over the other a wiser choice.

Antimicrobial- This is often referred to as Silver Ion technology. It SLOWS down the growth of germs but doesn’t stop them.

Antibacterial- KILLS germs. It doesn’t just slow down the process but actually eradicates the germs.

I am sure at this point you are certain you would rather have a product with antibacterial capabilities. That being the case Crypton currently is your only option! Because of it moisture barrier capabilities and manufacturering process it is the only manufacturer of High Performance textiles that can boast that claim.

So What’s new with Crypton?

Crypton Manufacturing  has come out with a couple of new products. One is call “Incase“.It runs about 1/3 of the cost as  patented Crypton fabrics. It has the same stain release and repelling properties as the original Crypton but without the moisture barrier. This is recommended more for high commercial use where excessive germs are not as much of an issue. It is antimicrobial but not antibacterial. Incase offers a less expensive alternative for the right environment.

Crypton has also partnered with Signature for a new carpet product.  Currently it is broadloom only, but within a year carpet tiles are expected to be available. It is the 1st carpet that is completely cleanable. It offers the same patented Crypton technology; repelling properties, stain release and the antibacterial moisture barrier. The fibers are treated all the way through.

On the more fun side. Crypton has a great retail shop. Available are items such as aprons, pillow cases, pet products. Fun practical items.

Thanks Michelle for all the great information. Hopefully, I have successfully enlightened you  on the world of High Performance Textiles and Why Crypton.