Vinyl vs. Fabric – Which Is Better For Your Trade Show Banners?

Banners are one of the original marketing tools. They have been used to display royalty, the family crest, country flags and more.  Although these banners began in fabric, modern technology has given us more material options for creating colorful displays, such as vinyl.  But which one is better, vinyl or fabric? Hopefully, this helps you choose between vinyl and fabric for your next trade show banner.

Fabric trade show Banners

Fabric trade show banners have been used for centuries and are still used today.  They are light weight, flexible and can easily be folded during travel and storage. These are great for traveling to multiple trade shows because of their flexibility and durability during transport.  However, use caution when cleaning fabric trade show banners.  Stains can spread if too much water is added. After cleaning, let the fabric dry completely before putting it into storage. Mold could grown if the banner is folded and stored while damp.

Many people find fabric, especially tension fabric, to be the better option for creating a high-end look for any display or booth.  Fabric printing also uses a “green” solution for dye sub printing, which is significantly less damaging than solvent printing.  This helps the fabric maintain its durability for a longer life span.

Vinyl trade show Banners

Vinyl trade show banners are a great choice for outdoor displays.  They are easy to clean with soap or mild detergents. Harsh detergents can damage the glossy coat on vinyl banners.  Unlike fabric banners, vinyls should never be folded for storage.  They should be rolled and placed in a tube container or tied with rope.  Folding can cause permanent creases.  When rolling up a vinyl banner, roll with your image on the outside for the best storage results.

Whether you are looking for a long-lasting banner for outdoor or indoor, consider the benefits and downfalls to each material. Think about where you will store your banner, how often you plan to use it and how long you  want it to last.