Is Polyester Safe?

Polyester fabric is widely used in today’s apparel. Its durable yet machine-washable properties make it cost-effective to own.

However, some individuals are concerned about the effects of polyester on health – this is especially prevalent in baby clothing.

It’s made from petroleum

Polyester, a synthetic material derived from petroleum, makes up much of what you wear or drink today and it requires significant energy input as well as greenhouse gas emissions to produce.

To produce polyester, refineries must first break down ethylene — a byproduct of petroleum — into its constituent parts using heat, pressure, fuel, chemicals, and catalysts. After being released into a polymerization reaction vessel, dimethyl terephthalate ester can then react with it through chemical polymerization reactions to create polyester.

This process produces a clear molten polymer which is then extruded into long ribbons before being chopped into small pellets, spun or woven together, and used for clothing purposes.

Recycling polyester or using plant-based polyester fabrics are great ways to help the planet while simultaneously expressing your style! They provide a great opportunity to reduce carbon emissions while helping the Earth. Plus they make great statement pieces!

It’s flammable

Polyester fiber is an extremely popular synthetic material used in fabric and clothing production, providing durable yet easily dyed garments that retain their shape-retaining capabilities.

As with other materials, polyester can catch fire if exposed to sufficient heat and time, though it is less flammable than natural fabrics like cotton.

Fabric’s combustibility depends heavily on its thickness and weave of fibers. A loose-weave fabric like cotton may be more flammable as air can easily move through its open-weave threads.

On the other hand, fabrics composed of multiple fibers will likely be less flammable due to each fiber’s flammability characteristics. A cotton-polyester blend should likely be less hazardous than its pure polyester counterpart; however, testing should still be conducted.

It’s not breathable

Polyester doesn’t breathe well, making it less than ideal for hot summer days. Instead of purchasing clothes made entirely from polyester, consider selecting ones made from natural fibers like cotton that can keep you cool.

Breathability should always be an important consideration when purchasing activewear, allowing your body to breathe easily and release heat as you exert yourself. Breathable fabrics also wick away sweat from your skin to keep you cooler overall.

Many consumers favor recycled polyester over virgin polyester as it reduces plastic bottle waste in landfills, thus helping reduce water and air pollution simultaneously.

Polyester may not breathe as freely as cotton, but it still makes an excellent fabric choice for clothing and bedding applications. When selecting poly-cotton blend fabrics for clothing or bedding purposes, look for those which contain at least 50% cotton content for optimal results.

It’s not biodegradable

Polyester fiber is a synthetic material frequently found in apparel production, crafted using different chemicals for manufacture.

Synthetic polyesters may take years to decompose, which releases pollution into the environment such as air and water pollution, toxic chemicals, and various harmful impacts to both people and the planet.

There are biodegradable fabrics like cotton and other natural fibers, linen, silk, and wool being among the best examples.

Recycled polyester fabrics made from plastic bottles diverted from landfill are also an option; however, fleece made of recycled PET plastic has the potential to pollute waterways so beware before making this choice!