Fabric filters will allow finer material to pass, just hold one out in the sun, you will see the tiny holes. But the issue with K&N type filters is with the drop-in variety. Mainly the outer rubber seal is sometimes too thin for a particular OEM air box. The result is unfiltered air actually getting past the air filter element and allowing fine dust into your engine.
I've had this issue with multiple drop-in K&Ns. The only one that actually fit correctly was on my SV650 motorcycle. I've done oil analysis on that bike, and it returns clean in terms of air filtration. Though that filter is large in comparison to the motor and rarely is around any dust. I wouldn't use a fabric/oil filter in the desert or any vehicle that off-roads.
Highly recommend if you decide on a K&N type filter that's not part of an aftermarket intake system, to make sure that it fits tight and snug in the stock box. It should have a fair bit of resistance when trying to secure it. If not, than return it.
Considering paper filters are $20-30, offers the best filtration of the smallest particles, last 3 years and no-mess replacement over a cloth/oil type that needs to be washed, dried and then oiled. Hopefully not over oiled so you don't get any sensor issues, it just makes sense to go paper.