Cuddle vs Polar Fleece? Which is the best for your project?

The word 'fleece' is usually referred to when describing a cosy pull-over/ jumper for the cooler months. Interestingly enough, the material it's made with is also called fleece. 

Fleece fabric has become one of the UK’s most loved materials for sewing, crafting, and home décor. It’s soft, affordable, easy to work with, and ideal for the colder months. But if you’ve ever shopped online for fleece fabric, you may have found yourself confused by all of the options...

Most fleece fabric is made from synthetic fibres, usually polyester. However, some fleece can also be wool based, although this can be an expensive option.

If you’re planning to buy fleece in the UK or wondering which type is best for your project, this detailed comparison will help you make the right choice.

Understanding Fleece: The Fabric Behind the Warmth

Fleece is a soft, knitted fabric made from polyester yarns that are brushed to create a fluffy, insulating texture. It was originally developed as a lightweight alternative to wool, offering similar warmth without the heaviness or itchiness.

Over time, textile innovation has created several fleece varieties, each with unique performance benefits. Regular fleece represents the entry-level version, soft, lightweight and breathable, while polar fleece is the premium grade, known for its density, warmth, and long-lasting finish.

Both are versatile and perfect for the UK climate, especially during autumn and winter, but understanding their strengths and differences can help you choose wisely and save money in the long run.

Cuddle Plush Fleece

If you're looking for a luxurious looking, plush and strokable softness, Cuddle Plush Fleece is the one for you! 

Main Qualities

• Long pile which creates extra fluffiness
• Shiny, luxurious finish, almost velvet like
• Soft and fluffy, great for aesthetic blankets and toys
• Can shed/bobble due to the long pile
• Gets softer after multiple washing

Common Uses of Cuddle Plush Fleece

• Toys, e.g. teddy bears
• Blankets and pillows
• Clothing such as jacket, jumpers, dressing gowns and oodies.
• Soft furnishings
• Hobby sewing, costumes and creative projects

Polar Fleece

Polar fleece is a very popular fabric choice amongst our customers. It's not surprising as this type of fleece has so many excellent qualities!Polar Fleece is a denser, heavier and more insulating quality of fleece. It is manufactured with a tighter weave and thicker pile, making it ideal for winter garments, blankets and outdoor use. This fabric has an anti-pill finish, ensuring that it retains a smooth surface after repeated washing and wearing. It’s designed to be functional, long-lasting, and exceptionally warm without adding bulk.

Main Qualities

• Brushed on one side for a warm and soft handle
• Highly insulating in cold temperatures
• Anti-pill surface which prevents bobbling, even after multiple washing
• Very minimal water retention and dries almost instantly
• Extra wide at 150 cm

Common Uses of Polar Fleece

• Winter jackets, gilets, and hoodies
• Camping and outdoor blankets
• Dog coats, cage liners, pet accessories and toys
• Throws, hats, scarves and gloves
• Home décor projects for the colder months

Fluffi Fabrics’ Reasonable Prices Compared To Other Stores or Suppliers

Polar fleece usually costs slightly more than regular fleece, typically £8–£12 per metre. The higher density and anti-pill treatment make it a premium fabric that lasts longer, providing excellent long-term value.

Key Comparison: Polar Fleece vs Cuddle Plush

This comparison shows that polar fleece provides superior insulation and durability for practical usage, whereas cuddle plush fleece offers an aesthetic and premium look/feel. 

Seasonal Context: Why Polar Fleece & Cuddle Plush Is Perfect for UK Winters?

From autumn through early spring, UK weather demands fabrics that can keep you warm without feeling heavy or restrictive. Polar fleece’s insulating structure traps heat close to the body while allowing moisture to evaporate, making it perfect for layering and outdoor wear and practical usage. Whereas Cuddle Plush can look attractive, whilst giving that softness, warmth and luxuriousness for a fashion statement for apparel and home.

For Winter Wear
Create thick hoodies, coats, and scarves that retain warmth even in wind and drizzle.

For Camping and Outdoor Activities
Polar fleece throws and sleeping bag liners are lightweight yet incredibly effective at trapping warmth on chilly nights.

For Home Projects
Sewing cushions, pet beds, or blankets from polar fleece adds instant cosiness to your space.

Meanwhile, regular fleece is ideal for early autumn or spring, when you want comfort without overheating.

Expert Sewing Advice

• Needles & Stitching: Use a ballpoint or stretch needle for smooth stitching and avoid skipped stitches.
• Cutting: Use sharp scissors or a rotary cutter and watch out for fraying on cuddle plush fleece due to it's long pile weave
• Seam Allowance: Allow slightly wider seams (around 1.5 cm) for polar fleece due to thickness.
• Ironing: Never press fleece directly; use a low-temperature cloth barrier to avoid melting fibres.
• Lining & Layering: Regular fleece makes an excellent lining fabric beneath polar fleece outer layers.

These sewing techniques ensure your projects retain their professional look and finish, regardless of fabric type.

Care and Maintenance

Fleece fabrics are easy to care for, which is one reason they’re so popular.

• Washing: Use a cool 30°C cycle with mild detergent.
• Drying: Air-dry for best results. Polar fleece barely absorbs any water and will dry very quickly whereas cuddle plush fleece has the opposite effect. Tumble dry at the lowest setting but try to avoid where possible.
• Avoid Fabric Softener: It can clog fibres and reduce insulation.
• Storage: Store folded rather than hung to preserve texture.

When cared for properly, polar fleece can last three to five years with regular use, maintaining warmth and shape far longer than standard fleece.

Environmental Note

Modern fleece fabrics are increasingly made using recycled polyester, reducing the environmental footprint of synthetic textiles. At Fluffi Fabrics, we actively support sustainable production by sourcing materials from suppliers using eco-friendly processes wherever possible. We have Oeko-Tex and EN71 certification. 

Why Fluffi Fabrics Is the Best Place to Buy Fleece in the UK?

Fluffi Fabrics has built its reputation on offering high-quality fabrics at fair prices. We stock both regular and polar fleece in a wide range of colours, prints and weights, carefully selected for texture, warmth and consistency.

Our Promise

• Consistent GSM and quality across all stock.
• Anti-pill polar fleece that retains its finish wash after wash.
• Competitive UK pricing without compromising quality.
• Fast nationwide delivery.
• Friendly, expert customer support to help you choose the right material.
• By combining affordability with performance, Fluffi Fabrics positions itself as the UK’s best-value destination for fleece and dressmaking fabrics.

Explore the Full Fleece Range

FAQs

1. Is polar fleece warmer than regular fleece?
   Yes. Polar fleece has a higher fibre density and traps more air, which creates superior insulation, ideal for the UK’s colder months.
2. What does “anti-pill” mean?
   Anti-pill fleece is specially treated to prevent bobbling or small fabric balls that appear after washing. It keeps the fabric smooth and new for longer.
3. Is fleece breathable?
   Yes, both types allow air circulation, though polar fleece is slightly less breathable due to its thickness.
4. Can I sew fleece on a domestic machine?
   Absolutely. Use a stretch or zigzag stitch, and avoid pulling the fabric as you sew.
5. What are the best projects for polar fleece?
   Blankets, pet beds, outdoor jackets, scarves, and camping accessories, anything where warmth and comfort matter most.

Explore the All FAQ On The Website

Conclusion

The choice between polar fleece and cuddle plush fleece depends on your project, your budget, and the level of warmth you need. Cuddle plush fleece remains a fantastic choice for an aesthetic and premium look.

But when performance and longevity matter, polar fleece may be the better option. With its superior insulation, anti-pill treatment, and thick, soft texture, it’s built for the UK winter and for projects that need to stand the test of time.

By sourcing your fleece fabrics from Fluffi Fabrics, you can enjoy both quality and value, premium performance at prices that remain accessible.