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Homehome› Textile Q&A› Printing & Embroidery› What is the difference between pigment dye and reactive…
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What is the difference between pigment dye and reactive dye in fabric? Which is better for garments?

The choice of dye type significantly affects the colour fastness, feel, and durability of the finished fabric. Understanding the difference helps buyers ask the right questions of suppliers:

FeatureReactive DyePigment Dye
Bond to fibreChemical bond forms — dye becomes part of the fibreMechanical bond — dye sits on fibre surface with binder
Colour fastnessExcellent — withstands 50+ washes with minimal fadingModerate — may fade after 10–20 washes
Hand feelSoft — no change to fabric handSlightly stiff — binder adds texture, softens after washing
Best forCotton, linen, viscose — wherever softness and wash durability matterPolyester blends where reactive dyes don't work well
CostHigherLower
Environmental impactHigh water and chemical use during processingLower water use but binder chemicals
💡 For cotton kurtis and suits that end customers will wash frequently, insist on reactive-dyed fabric from suppliers — better colour longevity means fewer customer complaints about fading.
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