BIOTHANE Myths
BioThane® has rightfully earned a commendable reputation for its low-maintenance and easy-to-care-for qualities. While we celebrate its benefits, it is equally important to be aware of its limitations, as no product is without its constraints. As an experienced shop that is committed to supporting our customers and delivering accurate and transparent information, here's an overview of the pros and cons we've encountered with BioThane:
• TRUTH: BioThane is Waterproof -- Yes, BioThane® is indeed waterproof thanks to its PVC coating and high quality polyester core. Renowned for its exceptional strength, UV-stability, and non-stretch properties, BioThane outperforms imitation "waterproof webbing" products made with nylon webbing and inferior coatings. BioThane® products do not require specialized finishes for end-sealing to protect the product or increase its longevity and maintain its waterproof attributes.
• MYTH: BioThane is Smell and StainProof -- BioThane is impressively odor and stain resistant and easy to clean with soap and water in most cases. However, it is not entirely 'stink or stain-proof.' Certain permeative substances, such as skunk spray, may leave a lingering odor that regular cleaning might not entirely eliminate. Refer to our Care Section above for more information and tips on how to clean and maintain your gear if usual maintenance does not do the trick.
• TRUTH: BioThane is Resistant to Mold and Mildew -- The material's composition, including its waterproof properties, makes it less susceptible to the growth of mold and mildew compared to natural materials like leather. Regular cleaning and proper storage can further enhance BioThane's resistance to organic materials.
• MYTH: BioThane is Chew/BiteProof -- BioThane® is durable, not indestructible. BioThane demonstrates exceptional strength and abrasion resistance, but it is not invulnerable to sharp objects like teeth. Avoid allowing pets to bite or chew on BioThane, as it can be marred or punctured. Damage to the outer PVC coating alone does not compromise strength, but if the inner polyester webbing is affected, integrity is reduced.
• MYTH: BioThane is Vegan -- BioThane® is not certified vegan. The manufacturing process may involve dyes, additives, or processing agents that can include animal-derived byproducts. Because these components and processes can vary, BioThane® cannot be represented as a verified vegan material.
• TRUTH: BioThane is Fade Resistant -- BioThane holds its color very well under normal use. Most items will look like new for the life of the product. Prolonged exposure to sunlight, however, can cause some fading over time. Neon colors (such as the Fluoro Pink and Blaze Orange) may experience faster fading, and color transfer can occur. Storing such colors separately is recommended to prevent direct contact and potential color transfer.
• MYTH: BioThane is Like Man-Made Leather -- It’s tempting to compare BioThane® to leather because it can look similar at first glance, but in reality, they are almost polar opposites. Leather softens and stretches over time, developing character and a patina that feels personal. BioThane® stays more consistent. It will not stretch, it will not soften with age, and it does not require oils or conditioning as part of its care.
Where BioThane® really shines is in its practicality and variety. It comes in a huge spectrum of colors and is built to handle life as it comes, whether that means rain, mud, travel, or adventure, with minimal fuss. It is not a leather substitute. Instead, it is its own thing: reliable, colorful, and low-maintenance.
• TRUTH: BioThane Can Handle Cold Temps -- BioThane also does well in lower temps, retaining its flexibility and brittleness not becoming an issue until temps of -49°C| -56°F are reached.
• MYTH: BioThane Will Stay Soft Forever -- This is probably the least discussed trait we have encountered regarding BioThane. Unlike leather, which gets softer with use, BioThane's pliability decreases over time. While these changes usually take years to occur and are considered a normal aging process of the material, the exact lifespan will vary based on environmental exposures and each animal's unique body chemistry. Per BioThane directly:
"Biothane is a man-made PVC product and as such, additives are included in the manufacturing process which make the material soft and flexible. A combination of abrasion, sunlight, heat, cold, oils from the dog, water, time, and other such various environmental exposures, will eventually work out these additives, decreasing the flexibility of the material over time and perhaps even lead to cracking."
BioThane Corp. is working on identifying more exact causes that exacerbate a decrease in pliability or cracking of the material. If you have ever experienced a decrease in pliability or cracking of Beta BioThane® (whether it was purchased from SCCo. or another shop), we invite you to fill out this survey -- results of which are shared directly with BioThane to aid them in their efforts.
----
Overall, BioThane stands out as an excellent product, demanding very little in the way of maintenance compared to alternative options. Nevertheless, it's important to acknowledge that, like any product, it has its limitations. Our primary objective is to empower and educate our clients, enabling them to make informed decisions aligning with their preferences and their pet's lifestyle. If any questions arise or if further assistance is needed, please don't hesitate to contact us. We are always here and eager to assist you.