Key Difference – Cotton vs Polyester
Cotton and polyester are two types of fabrics that are commonly used in the textile industry. The main distinction between cotton and polyester is that cotton is a natural material, while polyester is a synthetic product.
What is Cotton?
Cotton is the most widely used fabric worldwide. It is a natural fabric made from the fibers of the cotton plant. Cotton, being a natural fiber, allows the fabric to breathe, which means it absorbs and releases perspiration quickly. As a result, cotton garments stay fresh throughout the day. Cotton does not cause irritation, and even people with very sensitive skin can wear it. It is wise to dress infants and children in cotton as much as possible, as their skin is much more sensitive than adults. The cotton fabric feels very light and soft against the skin. Cotton is primarily used for textiles, not only as clothing but also as bed sheets, curtains, quilts, and blankets. However, cotton has a disadvantage when it comes to durability: it fades more quickly, and the colors given to the fabric do not last long.
Although using cotton may seem better both for you and the environment because it is a natural product, examining the production processes and the amount of energy released, along with pollutants, reveals that cotton is no less of a culprit than synthetic fabrics in terms of toxins and chemicals used during its production. Another factor to consider is that cotton is perhaps the most pesticide-dependent crop, consuming nearly one-fourth of all pesticides used worldwide.
What is Polyester?
Polyester is a synthetic fabric. It is nearly indestructible and never fades. Polyester fabrics keep sweat close to the body, not allowing it to be released from the fabric. This means that the fabric is not breathable, and you start to feel smelly in a few hours. However, polyester fabric is smoother than cotton. Polyester fabrics can also cause irritation because they are not natural products; therefore, it is wise to dress infants and children in cotton as much as possible since their skin is much more sensitive than adults.
Polyester is also cheaper than cotton, although prices for both polyester and cotton fabrics can vary greatly. Polyesters are not only used to make fabrics; they are also widely used to manufacture PET products used in kitchens.
What is the difference between Cotton and Polyester?
| Cotton | Polyester |
|---|---|
| Cotton is a natural product. | Polyester is a man-made product. |
| Cotton is not as durable as polyester. | Polyester is extremely durable. |
| Cotton fades away in a short time period. | Polyester retains its colors and shines for a long time. |
| Cotton suits all skin types since it’s a natural product. | Polyester may not be suitable for those with skin allergies. |
| Cotton is breathable. | Polyester is not breathable. |
Key Takeaways
- Cotton is a natural fabric, while polyester is a synthetic fabric.
- Cotton is breathable and suitable for all skin types, while polyester is not breathable and may not be suitable for those with skin allergies.
- Cotton is less durable and fades more quickly than polyester, which is extremely durable and retains its colors for a long time.
