The present invention is directed to a hydroentangled flame retardant
nonwoven fabric, and more specifically, to a cellulosic flame retardant
fabric comprising a self extinguishing fiber so as to minimize the total
percentage of fabric weight lost upon burning in accordance with
technical bulletin 604. Use of natural fiber fabrics in bedding
components is desirable due to the softness and durability associated
with the fabrics; however, natural fiber, such as cellulose, is highly
flammable and therefore lacks the ability to provide the proper
flammability protection often sought out in bedding components. In
accordance with the present invention, a small amount of
self-extinguishing fiber, such as a modacrylic fiber, was blended with
the natural fiber and hydroentangled to form a nonwoven composite fabric
that is soft, flame retardant, and suitable for bedding articles.