Naked Science Forum

General Science => General Science => Topic started by: thedoc on 11/10/2013 00:30:01

Title: Why do some materials attract cat fur more than others?
Post by: thedoc on 11/10/2013 00:30:01

Stephen Tucker  asked the Naked Scientists:
   
Why do some types of fabric have such an affinity for cat fur?

For example, some of my clothes are anti-wrinkle or 'non-iron', and they come out of the wash (with or without using the dyer) absolutely covered in fur. Untreated cotton clothes grab fur when worn, but not much out of the dryer. (Except fleece, which only gets furrier, but might that be influenced by the increased surface area?) Polyester exercise clothes don't seem to attract as much fur, via laundry or the environment. What is it about these fabrics or treatments that make some attract more fur than others?

Thanks, and keep up the great work!

Stephen I. Tucker
Utah State University

What do you think?