The utilization of DMEU in conjunction with a small concentration of tetraethoxysilane (TEOS) helps to improve the tensile strength of the treated material and decreases the yellowing of the material[8] The production of DMEU is through the condensation of formaldehyde with ethylene urea:[9] The reaction proceeds around 200 °C (392 °F) but this temperature can be brought down to around 70 °C (158 °F) in the presence of an acid catalyst.

Because DMEU inhibited new hydrogen bond formation, it also hindered the spreadability of cotton fibers under pressure.

Another common problem from treatment of DMEU is the yellowing of the treated fabric, because of the acidic conditions with high amounts of heat.

[12] Currently, DMEU is used along with other formaldehyde urea derivatives for cotton fabrics of varying tear strength, color, softness, and ease of care.

Many DMEU-related cyclic urea derivatives used to synthesize urea-formaldehyde resins also have applications in treating paper, but DMEU has not proven useful in this regard.

[13] DMEU is a formaldehyde derivative and thus has been known to cause irritation of the skin and allergic reactions from those who are exposed to the resin for extended periods of time.

Additionally, DMEU is considered carcinogenic to humans based its inclusion as a formaldehyde derivative.