The Rise of Polyester in T-shirts: A Compromise on Quality?
The Hidden Hazard in Your Closet: Why Are Clothing Brands Using More and More Polyester?
Have you noticed that the t-shirts you've bought recently don't feel as soft and natural as they used to? The reason is likely the increasing use of polyester. So, why are brands turning to synthetic materials like polyester and recycled polyester instead of cotton?
Profit Margins and Cost Pressure The answer is simple: Cost. As cotton prices rise, polyester is a much cheaper alternative. Brands are reducing the cotton ratio and increasing the polyester ratio to raise their profit margins or keep their prices stable. Recycled polyester, in turn, helps make this situation more palatable by offering an "eco-friendly" marketing story.
What Does This Mean for the Consumer? Outside of sportswear, an increase in polyester usually means a decrease in comfort.
- Less Breathability: It can cause your skin to sweat more.
- Synthetic Feel: You lose that natural, soft cotton feel.
- The Microplastics Problem: With every wash, synthetic fabrics shed microplastics that flow into our oceans.
Being a Conscious Consumer As a brand, we believe in quality and natural feel before cost. As a consumer, reading the labels and preferring natural materials like 100% cotton is an important step you can take for both your own comfort and the environment. Quality is achieved with the right materials, not with synthetic shortcuts.