Guide to Buying and Maintaining VELCRO Brand Products

Many consumers are familiar with VELCRO® brand products but may not fully understand their composition, applications, or maintenance. This article addresses common questions about these versatile fastening solutions.

Contrary to popular belief, VELCRO® is not a generic term for hook-and-loop fasteners. It's the brand name of products manufactured by Velcro Companies, including Velcro USA Inc. The brand encompasses various items, from industrial-grade hook-and-loop tapes to household organization products.

Hook-and-loop fasteners consist of two complementary components: the rough "hook" side and the soft "loop" side (also called the "pile" side). When pressed together, the hooks catch in the loops, creating a secure but reversible bond. Modern versions include various configurations and specialized technologies like self-mating and single-component systems.

VELCRO® brand products are most commonly referred to as hook-and-loop fasteners, though alternative terms include touch fasteners or hook-and-pile closures. These come in multiple forms:

• Tapes: Fabric strips with adhesive backing
• Shaped components: Dots, squares, or custom-cut pieces
• Specialty items: Cable ties, mounting solutions, and industrial-grade fasteners

While retail packages typically include both hook and loop components, commercial users can purchase sides separately to meet specific requirements. Attachment methods vary by application:

1. Sewing: For textile integration
2. Adhesive bonding: Using pressure-sensitive or solvent-activated backing
3. Welding/RF sealing: For permanent industrial applications

The appropriate adhesive depends on material compatibility and environmental factors. VELCRO® brand plastic adhesives bond permanently to various surfaces, including PVC, rubber, and leather. Proper application requires:

• Clean, dry surfaces
• Even adhesive distribution
• 24-hour curing time for maximum strength

Hook components may accumulate debris over time. Cleaning methods include:

• Using a stiff brush or spare hook component to dislodge particles
• Preventative measures like keeping hooks covered when not in use
• Engaging hooks with loops before washing to prevent lint accumulation

For adhesive residue removal, citrus-based cleaners are recommended, though spot testing is advised.

Beyond standard retail offerings, Velcro Companies provides:

• Bulk quantities
• Custom cutting and shaping
• Specialized industrial solutions

Various industry-specific certifications are available for VELCRO® brand products, including:

• ROHS compliance
• Military specifications
• Fire resistance ratings
• FDA approval for food-contact applications