At Baltex, we support the medical sector with high-performance knitted spacer fabrics for wound dressings, engineered for use in a wide range of advanced wound care products. These textiles offer a unique combination of breathability, moisture control, cushioning, and customisation – making them ideal for applications where healing outcomes, patient comfort, and material performance are critical.
Key Properties of Spacer Fabrics for Wound Dressings
Spacer fabrics are three-dimensional knitted textiles made with two outer layers connected by a compressible middle layer. This structure gives them a range of advantages over flat materials in wound care applications:
1. High Breathability & Air Permeability
The open 3D structure allows for excellent airflow and vapour transmission, creating an optimal microclimate for healing. This makes spacer fabrics highly suitable for dressings that require moisture regulation without compromising oxygen exchange.
2. Effective Moisture Management
Spacer fabrics wick moisture away from the wound site and distribute exudate evenly across the surface. This helps maintain a moist healing environment while preventing fluid build-up and maceration.
3. Cushioning & Pressure Redistribution
The compressible spacer layer provides gentle padding that reduces localised pressure on the wound. This is particularly valuable for pressure ulcer prevention and for dressings used over bony or sensitive areas.
4. Conformability
Knitted spacer textiles are stretchable and flexible, enabling them to comfortably conform to body contours and joints—crucial for ensuring secure fit and contact in dynamic areas such as elbows, knees, or heels.
5. Washable & Reusable Options
In certain chronic or non-acute care settings, medical spacer fabrics can be designed for reuse. Their durability and washability make them an economical and environmentally conscious choice for long-term wound management.
6. Biocompatibility & Customisation
Spacer fabrics can be produced using biocompatible yarns such as polyester, polyamide, or even bio-based polymers. They are also suitable for functionalisation, allowing for the incorporation of:
- Antimicrobial finishes
- Drug-loading capabilities
- Hydrophilic or hydrophobic treatments
Applications in Medical Wound Care
Spacer fabrics are used in a range of wound dressing components, including:
- Wound contact layers – creating a non-adherent interface between the wound bed and absorbent materials.
- Absorptive layers – managing exudate while preserving a moist healing environment.
- Compression bandages – providing elasticity and pressure for treating venous leg ulcers.
- Burn and chronic wound dressings – offering breathable, gentle support for fragile skin.
Innovation in Action
Some advanced medical dressings now combine spacer fabrics with:
- Silver ions or antimicrobial finishes for infection control
- Hydrogels for cooling and hydration
- Growth factor carriers for enhanced healing
- Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) systems, where spacer structures assist in support and fluid management
Baltex Medical Spacer Fabrics
Whether you’re developing new wound care products or enhancing an existing range, Baltex offers a wide selection of approved medical-grade spacer fabrics. Our in-house R&D and testing capabilities ensure every solution is aligned with your performance, compliance, and innovation goals.
📩 To learn more or request samples, contact our team today.
Contact us at sales@baltex.co.uk or visit www.baltex.co.uk to request a consultation.
