Cellulose ethers, such as methyl cellulose (MC) and carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), are widely used in the textile industry for a variety of applications, due to their unique properties, such as water solubility, film-forming ability, and chemical stability. Some of the common applications of cellulose ethers in the textile industry include:

1. Textile sizing: Cellulose ethers are used as sizing agents in the textile industry to improve the strength, smoothness, and uniformity of fabrics. They can form a film on the surface of the yarns, providing better adhesion and protection against abrasion during weaving and finishing. MC is commonly used in textile sizing, due to its low viscosity and good film-forming ability.
2. Printing: Cellulose ethers are used as thickeners and rheology modifiers in textile printing to control the viscosity and flow properties of the printing pastes. They can improve the print definition, color yield, and penetration of the dyes into the fibers. CMC is commonly used in textile printing, due to its high viscosity and water retention capacity.
3. Dyeing: Cellulose ethers are used as leveling agents and dispersants in textile dyeing to improve the uniformity and penetration of the dyes into the fibers. They can prevent the formation of clumps and specks of dyes, and improve the dye uptake and color fastness of the fabrics. MC and CMC are commonly used in textile dyeing, due to their good dispersing properties and chemical stability.
4. Finishing: Cellulose ethers are used as finishing agents in the textile industry to improve the softness, hand, and drape of the fabrics. They can form a thin film on the surface of the fibers, providing better lubrication and reducing the friction between the fibers. MC and CMC are commonly used in textile finishing, due to their low viscosity and good film-forming ability.

Overall, cellulose ethers are versatile materials that can provide a range of benefits in the textile industry, including improved strength, smoothness, color yield, and softness of fabrics. Their compatibility with other materials and ease of use make them a popular choice for textile manufacturers around the world.