Why Polyester Is Different From Natural Fibres

What polyester is

Polyester is a synthetic fibre made from petroleum-based plastic. It is inexpensive, widely used and often blended into garments to reduce cost or add stretch and wrinkle resistance.

How it behaves on the body

Polyester is less breathable than natural fibres and can trap heat and moisture against the skin. Many people find natural fibres like cotton, linen and hemp more comfortable, particularly in warm conditions.

End of life

Natural plant fibres are biodegradable when untreated. Polyester is plastic-based and does not biodegrade in the same way; it can also shed microfibres in washing. This is one reason some shoppers prefer natural-fibre clothing.

Reading blends

Check the composition label. A garment described simply as cotton may still be a blend. 100% cotton, 100% linen or 100% hemp tells you there is no synthetic blended in.

OMIT leaves the plastic out: 100% cotton and 100% linen, no polyester in the loop. Read the fibre story.