What is GSM in Fabrics: Understanding Fabric GSM for Making Informed Purchases
Monday, 22nd of January, 2024
WHAT
IS GSM
Summary: GSM, or grams per square meter (as it stands for), measures the weight of fabric. The GSM metric helps decision-makers in choosing the right fabrics on a use-case basis, allowing for smarter procurement choices.
#WhatIsFabricGSM #TowelGuide
is GSM
in Fabrics
in Fabrics
Understanding Fabric GSM for Making Informed Purchases
In the world of textiles, consumers who come across the GSM tag, may grapple with deciphering the label when shopping for clothing or linens. So let's delve into what GSM in fabrics really means. So what is GSM in fabrics?
GSM, or grams per square meter, is a metric measurement defining the weight of a fabric. This measurement aids decision makers in making intelligent procurement decisions when selecting fabrics, due to the multiple types of uses.
"The higher the GSM number, the denser the fabric becomes."
The higher the GSM number, the denser the fabric becomes. For instance, a piece of clothing in the range of 180-200 GSM implies a thick material suitable for cooler temperatures (depending on the geographic location). Conversely, a shirt in the range of 130-150 GSM could be much airier and perhaps more suitable for warmer days, offering a lighter and more breathable feel.
For businesses looking to procure more budget-friendly options like promotional shirts for example, might choose a shirt in the range of 100-110 GSM, acknowledging their limited usage.
This principle extends to towels, upholstery linens, and various clothing items used in different seasons.
Here's a simple categorized breakdown of fabric GSMs to enhance clarity:
Light Weight Fabrics
Chiffon, linen, organza, cheesecloth, lace, voile, mesh.
Medium Weight Fabrics
Face towels, hand towels, bath towels, pool towels, sateen, oxford, velvet, taffeta, charmeuse
Heavy Weight Fabrics
Face towels, hand towels, bath towels, pool towels, upholstery fabric, canvas, brocade, poplin, denim
"Does GSM impact the price tag? Absolutely. Because Fabrics with higher grams per square meter (GSM) require more raw materials in production."
Therefore, when assessing the GSM value, it's crucial to consider the intended purpose of the purchase.
Now, let's tackle a crucial question: Does GSM impact the price tag?Absolutely.
Because Fabrics with higher grams per square meter (GSM) require more raw materials in production. And is why a 210gsm luxury linen shirt could command a higher price than its 130gsm beach shirt counterpart.
Also, a fabric that is thicker (higher GSM) does also mean that the durability of the material increases. Heavier fabrics are built to withstand the rigors of washing, drying, and regular wear.
Which is why when hotels purchase towels for example, an intelligent buying decision they can make is to purchase towels at a higher GSM. Reputed hotels put their towels through industrial wash cycles after use, thereby requiring products that can withstand longer use. This in return impacting the hotel's profitability on the balance sheet.
While metric measurements like GSM are very common for fabric weight assessments, some parties prefer to express weight in ounces per square yard, known as Imperial weights (oz/yd2).
Whichever the measurement, when making intelligent procurement decisions, always understand the use-case of the fabric, and it's durability. At the same time, not every fabric has to be of a huge GSM number for it to be good.
To make it clear, a 900 GSM fabric would probably be a terrible choice as a towel. But could be a pretty good choice as a bathmat instead.