Cotton vs Polyester: A Guide to Choosing the Right Fabric

When it comes to clothing, the fabric you choose can make all the difference. From how it fits to how it feels on your skin, the right fabric can ensure comfort, style, and confidence.

As you read various clothing labels, you’ll likely come across cotton and polyester, two of the most commonly used materials for textiles on the market today. But which one should you pick? Is one better than the other? How do they compare?

Fortunately, we’re answering all of these questions. Here’s everything you need to know about cotton vs polyester.

Cotton

Cotton is a naturally sourced fiber made from the cotton plant—and it’s been around for quite some time. Experts have found evidence of cotton being used as early as 5000 BC, and it was widespread during the Middle Ages. Today, cotton is known as “one of the most important crops for humanity,” In fact, it’s one of the top-grown crops in the world.

How exactly is cotton made? 

The cotton plant produces fluffy “bolls,” which are then separated from the plant material. After the cotton fibers are separated and cleaned, they’re ready for the next stage: spinning. This process involves twisting the fibers together to create threads, which can then be woven or knitted into fabric.

Generally speaking, cotton is known for its comfort. Since it’s hypoallergenic, it’s also an excellent option for people with sensitive skin. 

However, keep in mind that there are different types of cotton. Some are easy on the environment and gentle on your skin, while others have a more controversial story. For example, conventional cotton has been called “the world’s dirtiest crop,” because of the high amount of pesticides and insecticides used in its production. 

On the other hand, there are many sustainable and high-quality types of cotton. These include:

• Organic cotton – This type of cotton is grown using organic farming practices, which typically means no harmful pesticides or synthetic growing materials are used. This not only benefits the environment and worker safety but also ensures the clothes you’re wearing are chemical-free. 

• Recycled cotton – This innovative cotton gives new life to old fabrics. While it might be more expensive than other kinds of cotton, it helps reduce the impact of cotton on the environment.

• Egyptian cotton – Egyptian cotton is finer than other cottons. It’s known for its incredibly soft, strong, and lustrous fibers. As such, it’s often used in high-end bed sheets, towels, and clothing. 

• Supima cotton – Similar to Egyptian cotton, Supima cotton is a luxuriously soft and durable fabric, providing another excellent choice for premium cotton products. It’s made only in the United States.

Pros and Cons of Cotton

When considering cotton vs polyester, it’s important to note the pros and cons of each. 

The benefits of cotton include:

• Natural comfort – Cotton’s light, breathable fibers allow air to circulate, keeping you comfortable, especially in warm weather. 

• Durability (with care) – Cotton can be surprisingly strong, especially when wet. With proper care, your cotton pieces can last you for years.

• Hypoallergenic – Cotton is typically an excellent choice for sensitive skin. 

However, potential downsides include:

• Wrinkles – Cotton has a tendency to wrinkle, especially when compared to synthetic fibers.

• Shrinkage – Cotton fibers can shrink when exposed to high heat, so it’s important to follow proper care instructions. 

• Soaking – While cotton is usually breathable, it does not have the moisture-wicking and quick-drying properties of other materials. 

Polyester

Now it’s time to hear the polyester side of our polyester vs. cotton debate. 

Polyester was first invented in the mid-1930s, while polyester fibers were developed in 1941. Polyester itself is a synthetic powerhouse created through a chemical process, where long chains of molecules are spun into fibers. 

Thanks to its scientific origins, polyester is renowned for its strength, versatility, and resilience: It resists tearing, stretching, and shrinking. Polyester is also wrinkle-resistant and notably quick-drying which makes it a top choice for wicking away moisture and leaving you feeling fresh and comfortable. 

There are also many exciting advancements in polyester fabric technology which have led to cutting-edge clothing pieces. For example, polyester today is used for everything from ultra-luxurious pajamas to durable outdoor apparel. 

Polyester Blends

There are many different types of polyester. In fact, clothing designers and retailers often develop their own proprietary blends of polyester to meet the specific needs of their customers and clothing pieces. For instance, you’ll find that Softies’ Wellness Fabric® is made from drirelease® fabric—an innovative (and patented) blend of polyester, cotton, and spandex proven to help keep you cool, clean, and healthy with moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties.

In general, polyester blends are an excellent choice for loungewear and sleepwear because they provide benefits that can promote better sleep, such as moisture-wicking properties. They’re also easy to care for and can:

• Offer a soft, lightweight feel
• Prevent bacterial and fungal growth

Pros and Cons of Polyester

What are some of the pros and cons of polyester? 

The benefits include: 

• Quick-drying – As mentioned, polyester-based fabrics are excellent for handling moisture, making them ideal for activewear, loungewear, and sleepwear.

• Durability – Feel free to toss your polyester pieces in the wash—these fibers are strong and resilient.

• Wrinkle resistance – Unlike cotton, polyester is naturally wrinkle-resistant, saving you from unsightly creases and crinkles. 

• Comfort – Polyester blends can be incredibly comfortable because designers and retailers are able to customize their blends to ensure maximum coziness.

On the other hand, potential cons include: 

• Non-hypoallergenic – If you have very sensitive skin, you might feel itching or irritation while wearing some polyester clothing. 

• Synthetic materials – The production of polyester involves synthetic materials, which can be a downside if you prefer natural fibers.

• Breathability – Not all polyester is breathable, so be sure to choose polyester blends that promote air circulation and offer an ultra-lightweight feel. 

Choosing Between Cotton vs Polyester

Choosing between cotton vs polyester is a personal decision. The right fabric for you will ultimately depend on your specific needs and preferences. With that in mind, here are some factors to consider:

• Comfort – Consider what type of clothing you’re looking for (whether it’s activewear, loungewear, formal attire, or something else entirely), and choose a fabric that will ensure the utmost comfort. For instance, if you’re looking for sleepwear, a polyester blend can offer both softness and moisture-wicking properties to keep you feeling cozy and fresh.

• Environmental impact – How sustainable do you want your fabric choices to be? Remember that even natural materials (such as generic cotton) can have a big environmental footprint. 

• Features – Do you need your fabric to be hypoallergenic? Do you want it to be light and airy? Determine what features you value in your clothing choices.

• Cost – Every fabric will come at a different price point. While certain fabrics and blends will be more affordable, they might lack some of the more elegant designs and sophisticated features you’re looking for. 

• Durability – How do you want to treat your clothes? If you want to be able to easily wash and dry them, choose a fabric that offers enhanced durability, like polyester.

Trust Softies’ Luxurious Fabrics for the Ultimate in Comfort and Style

When deciding between polyester vs cotton, it’s important to select the fabric that will best meet your needs. Luckily, when you choose sleepwear and loungewear from Softies, you’ll not only experience luxurious comfort, but also coolness and freshness thanks to our performance technology that wicks away moisture while neutralizing bacteria and odors.

Plus, Softies’ collections are as elegant as they are functional, ensuring the ultimate in both comfort and style.