Abstract: A three-dimensional hydraulically entangled nonwoven composite structure made of nonwoven fibrous web and a fibrous material integrated in the nonwoven fibrous web by hydraulic entanglement is disclosed. The nonwoven composite structure has a greater ability to maintain an embossed pattern when wet and has the ability for the structure to recover after it has been compressed, to a greater degree than previously found. Also disclosed is a method of making an embossed hydraulically entangled nonwoven composite fabric.

Abstract: A multi-ply fabric is provided that includes an inner ply positioned between two outer plies that contain both thermoplastic fibers and absorbent staple fibers. The plies are ultrasonically bonded together. The material used to form the inner ply may be selectively controlled to optimize certain properties of the fabric for a particular application, such as strength, bulk, absorption capacity, absorption rate, handfeel, etc.

Abstract: A nonwoven composite fabric is provided that contains one or more abraded (e.g., sanded) surfaces. In addition to improving the softness and handfeel of the nonwoven composite fabric, it has been unexpectedly discovered that abrading such a fabric may also impart excellent liquid handling properties (e.g., absorbent capacity, absorbent rate, wicking rate, etc.), as well as improved bulk and capillary tension.