Covered elastane, how the elastic thread is wrapped

Short answer: Covered elastane is an elastic thread wrapped inside another fibre, so it does not lie bare against the skin. The result is fabric that gives and springs back, and feels softer. Here is what it means for fit and washing.

What elastane is

Elastane is a very stretchy man-made fibre that can be pulled far and spring back again. It is used in small amounts alongside other fibres, so clothes can follow the movements of the body. On its own the thread is thin and smooth, which is why you rarely see or feel it in the fabric itself.

What covered means

Covered elastane means the elastic thread is wrapped in another thread that lies around it like a sleeve. Think of a spring packed inside yarn. The outer thread is what you see and feel, while the elastane works out of sight on the inside.

Why the outer thread makes the difference

The wrapped thread is rubbed less directly against the skin. The fabric feels more even and less slick and rubbery than if the elastic lay completely bare. For many people that gives a milder feel, but it is personal, so try the clothes on if you are unsure.

Fit that gives way

When the elastic is wrapped, the fabric can stretch with the body and return to shape without the garment turning loose and flat. You notice it at waistbands, at the heel and over knees and elbows. Pick the size that sits close without pinching, and the thread has the least to do.

The heel shows it too

One place where you clearly feel the elastic working is socks, where the fabric must hold on around foot and calf without sliding down. Here the thread should give enough grip without cutting in. Look at bamboo socks and feel where the fabric stretches when you pull on the cuff.

What heat and washing do to the elastic

High heat is the elastic's worst enemy, because it can make the thread slack, so the fabric loses its spring. Wash at a low temperature according to the care label, and do not dry clothes on a radiator or in a tumble dryer on high heat. Fabric softener can leave a film on fibres, so leave it out.

How to tell the elastic is tired

When clothes sit loose where they used to sit close, or a waistband turns wavy and does not spring back, the thread has lost some of its strength. This happens slowly with use and washing. If you have pieces you wear a lot, you can see replacements among bestsellers from Copenhagen Bamboo.

Clothes for many body shapes

The elastic means the same size can suit many shapes, because the fabric adapts instead of standing stiff. That is especially practical for clothes you wear every day and in many positions. You can find useful sizes in the range for men, and you can feel how the fabric gives to judge the fit.

Frequently asked questions

Is covered elastane the same as ordinary elastane?

The fibre itself is the same. The difference is that the thread is wrapped in another fibre, so it does not lie bare. That affects the feel of the fabric, while the ability to give and spring back is kept.

Can I tell whether clothes contain elastane?

Check the label in the garment, where the composition is listed. You can also pull the fabric lightly: if it springs back when you let go, there is usually elastic in it. The label gives the surest answer, though.

How long does the elastic last?

It depends on use, washing and heat. Gentle washing and air drying help a lot, and the elastic rarely loses strength suddenly, but slowly over many washes and days of wear.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.