Polyester or viscose – which material is better and why?

Polyester or viscose? This question evokes strong emotions, with many people wanting to know which material performs better in the textile industry and for everyday use. However, it's difficult to provide a definitive answer, as many factors influence the choice. When making purchasing decisions, individual preferences, needs, the season, and the specific nature of a particular garment should be considered.

It's not without reason that the textile industry utilizes natural, synthetic, and artificial fibers, as each has its advantages and disadvantages. Viscose or polyester – which material is better for summer, and which might be a worthwhile solution in specific situations? If you want to make informed purchasing decisions and enjoy your clothes for a long time, you absolutely must read the tips in this article!

Viscose and polyester – similarities and differences between both materials

Polyester and viscose – this section will discuss the basic similarities and differences, which can help many people make consumer choices. Armed with knowledge of the classification of fabrics and their properties, it's much easier to purchase clothing tailored to your needs. What polyester and viscose have in common is their origin, which cannot be considered natural. Although these materials don't have the same noble pedigree as silk, cotton, or linen, their properties do have their advantages. Viscose is undoubtedly closer to nature, as it is obtained from the cellulose contained in wood. However, this raw material is treated with chemicals that cause the fibers to separate.

Polyester, on the other hand, is synthetic in origin, derived from crude oil. It is undoubtedly a competitively priced material, as its production is considered relatively inexpensive. Viscose and polyester, as popular fabrics, also differ in other factors. There are quite a few, as they are largely determined by the raw material from which they were derived. Polyester is very easy to dye, and viscose also absorbs dye well, although it may lose it more easily than synthetic fibers. However, much depends on the quality of the material itself, the pigments used, and the process, including the use of dye-fixing agents.

Another difference between polyester and viscose concerns mechanical strength. Synthetic fibers are among the most resistant to damage, a characteristic that has contributed to their immense popularity. Viscose deteriorates somewhat more quickly, especially when washed at excessively high temperatures, spun at high speeds, and using excessively strong detergents. Polyester dries very quickly, which is why many people take it with them when traveling. Viscose absorbs water, like wood, so it takes longer to dry. Furthermore, there's a significant difference between viscose and polyester in their breathability.

Man-made fibers, created by chemically processing cellulose, are highly breathable, preventing sweating. In this respect, they behave similarly to cotton, linen, or ramie. Polyester, on the other hand, is not breathable, which can lead to excessive sweating and unpleasant odor. Due to its cellulose fiber content, viscose is more readily biodegradable than synthetic materials. Polyester takes much longer to decompose.

What features do viscose and polyester have in common?

Viscose and polyester don't have the natural origins of cotton or linen, for example. However, these materials differ significantly in their properties, although they can sometimes be confused. Satin dresses and shirts have been very popular for several seasons. These often imitate natural silk, which is expensive and difficult to care for. Satin can be made from both viscose and polyester. Both materials will look refined and luxurious. In this case, polyester and viscose have a few common characteristics and differences. What should you keep in mind when shopping?

Both viscose and polyester satin have a similar tendency to wrinkle. Both materials typically require ironing, although their appearance isn't as bad as linen immediately after washing. Both materials are finely woven, therefore highly resistant to mechanical damage. However, viscose satin is breathable, while polyester remains windproof. Furthermore, synthetic satin tends to generate static electricity, which can cause it to stick to your legs. Viscose and polyester are vegan materials that are not derived from animals. Neither should be washed at excessively high temperatures.

Viscose and polyester – the basic difference between fabrics

Although both materials share several common characteristics, there are many more differences. These include a range of features and properties. The primary difference between viscose and polyester is air permeability. Synthetic fibers remain windproof, while synthetic fibers obtained through chemical processing of cellulose can be worn even on hot days. Many people also consider viscose to be much more pleasant to the skin, but this shouldn't be taken for granted. Polyester can also be soft to the touch, while viscose can be scratchy. It all depends on the weaving method and the fiber properties. Although neither material is natural, viscose is derived from wood, while polyester is derived from petroleum, which means the latter takes longer to decompose.

Another difference between viscose and polyester concerns their shape retention. Both fabrics can be airy. However, it's difficult to achieve shape-retaining viscose, as it remains soft and flows beautifully. However, much stiffer polyester can be produced, which drapes differently. Viscose is highly water-absorbent because it's made from wood, so it takes a relatively long time to dry. Polyester is ready to wear again relatively quickly. Viscose often requires ironing because it wrinkles easily. Polyester, on the other hand, is quite durable and is often ready to wear immediately after drying. Viscose garments are more susceptible to wear and tear. Polyester garments, on the other hand, can last for several years and still look impeccable.

Is viscose polyester?

The textile industry is full of various materials, leaving many people confused when making purchasing decisions. Is viscose the same as polyester? No, they are two completely different fabrics. Viscose is obtained from cellulose through chemical processing, while polyester is made from petroleum. Although two similar-looking materials can be created, such as polyester and viscose satin, only the latter is breathable. As a result, it is an ideal solution for hot weather. Viscose is classified as a man-made fiber, while polyester is a synthetic fiber. The former wrinkles easily, while the synthetic material saves ironing time.

Viscose or polyester – which is better and why?

Considering environmental factors, there's no doubt that polyester is unsustainable. However, it's worth noting that the entire textile industry today is a massive source of environmental pollution. Polyester fibers are produced by melting polyethylene terephthalate (PET) granules, which are also used in the production of plastic bottles, for example. The polyester production process involves crude oil, a non-renewable resource. Its production releases large amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

If you asked us which is better – viscose or polyester, we'd unequivocally answer it's the former. At our brand, we steer clear of polyester. We believe its disadvantages outweigh its advantages. However, each of us has individual preferences, and there are situations when it works better, for example, in jackets or swimsuits. Below, we'll present some more in-depth considerations on this topic.

What is better viscose or polyester?

In summer, viscose is undoubtedly a better option, as it's highly breathable, meaning you barely sweat. Dresses, shorts, shirts, and T-shirts are made from it. Furthermore, viscose doesn't pick up static electricity, so it doesn't stick to your feet while walking.

Is polyester or viscose better?

Polyester is characterized by high mechanical resistance, so clothes made from it can last for many years. Viscose is more delicate and more susceptible to damage. However, this can be prevented by washing it at low temperatures, using the lowest spin speed, and using mild detergents. Proper care can significantly extend its life.

Polyester or viscose, which is better?

Individuals differ in their approach to ironing. Those who dislike reaching for an iron or steamer should probably pay more attention to polyester, as clothes made from it are highly wrinkle-resistant. Those who don't mind ironing will likely appreciate the delicacy and softness of viscose.

Viscose or polyester?

The specific nature of individual garments imposes certain limitations. While it's possible to make a jacket from viscose, it's difficult to use it for jackets because it doesn't hold its shape like polyester and absorbs water easily.

Polyester or viscose? Both materials have significantly different properties, which should be considered when making a purchasing decision. It's undoubtedly worth answering two basic questions: What kind of clothing do I need? In which months do I want to wear them? Dresses, shirts, and T-shirts come into direct contact with the body. It's worth ensuring they are made of pleasant-to-touch viscose. Polyester, on the other hand, is a good solution for outerwear, including jackets and coats. The textile industry is increasingly eager to use recycled polyester, and considering environmental issues, it's much better to choose it.

Viscose or polyester? For us, the choice is simple – polyester has no place in our brand, unless it's a small stabilizing addition. If you want to build a conscious wardrobe, it's worth investing in quality fabrics. We always encourage you to check the labels and ingredients of your clothes. You'll find clothes that will last for years, while also being kind to your skin and the environment, at Bombshe. If you're looking to build a conscious wardrobe, we invite you to explore our offer.