Polyester vs. Cotton: Which to Choose for Underwear

There's a lot of controversy surrounding polyester vs. cotton , and which of the two options is the most advantageous. The fabric used in underwear manufacturing is one of the most determining factors when purchasing your garments. That's why at Abanderado, we help you understand the differences between polyester and cotton. With all the information, the final decision on which material best meets your needs based on your circumstances will be yours.

Polyester vs. Cotton: Main Differences

As we mentioned, polyester and cotton are probably the most commonly used fabrics in underwear. If you're unsure of which one to choose, at Abanderado we have collections made with both fibers, with cotton as the mainstay . We'll explain the differences and what they have in common regarding breathability, lightness, durability, comfort, care, and price.

Moisture absorption

Whenever we analyze what underwear should be like , the first aspect that stands out is the breathability of the fabrics . It's important that a garment that we wear for many hours and that comes into contact with the skin is able to absorb moisture to avoid irritation and other types of skin reactions. This is one of the reasons why cotton is considered one of the best materials for underwear, due to its moisture-wicking properties . In this case, between polyester and cotton, the balance tips in favor of the latter. If you have sensitive skin, are prone to sweating , or are going to be doing intense physical activity , it's best to opt for cotton underwear . Abanderado's Ocean collection , made from 100% cotton, is a perfect example of breathable and hypoallergenic underwear.

Weight

A lightweight undergarment is always more comfortable and practical than a heavier one. We all feel better when the underwear and T-shirts we wear feel like a second skin. They're also so lightweight that you don't even notice we're wearing them. Although cotton is a lightweight fabric, one of the advantages of polyester is its lower weight . It's important to keep this property in mind when you're going to wear multiple layers of clothing, because the lighter they are, the more comfortable you'll feel. It's also important to keep this in mind when you're going to be doing a lot of physical activity, because the lighter the fabric, the less effort you'll have.

Durability

If we focus on durability, the differences between polyester and cotton are minimal. Both are very durable fabrics and, therefore, perfect for making garments that we want to last a long time. In any case, cotton is somewhat more delicate, especially if washed in hot water or not properly cared for. This is not the case with polyester. Of course, maximum durability is achieved by blending both fibers. The Abanderado Classic collection is a perfect combination of polyester and cotton, resulting in highly durable and long-lasting underwear. Conoce las diferencias entre el poliéster y el algodón en la ropa interior

Conoce las diferencias entre el poliéster y el algodón en la ropa interior

Comfort

Comfort is a very personal concept. Some people feel better wearing loose-fitting clothing, while others find it truly uncomfortable. If we're talking about underwear, following that example explains the preference for tight-fitting briefs or looser boxers . Although both fabrics are adaptable and comfortable, polyester is more stretchy and hugs the silhouette more. The advantage of cotton is that it feels softer and more pleasant. So, the difference between polyester and cotton in terms of comfort comes down to personal preference.

Care

In these times of haste and lack of time, we all look for practical clothing that is easy to wash and doesn't require special care. In this sense, the advantages of polyester are very obvious. It's a fabric that doesn't warp, wrinkle, shrink, or fade. It also dries quickly. Cotton , while not a demanding fabric in terms of care, is somewhat more delicate . For example, it shouldn't be put in a dryer, nor should it be left out in the sun because it can fade. It wrinkles much more than polyester, although it is easier to iron.

Cost

Finally, we look at the differences between polyester and cotton in terms of price. In principle, polyester as a synthetic fabric is cheaper than a natural fiber like cotton. However, within cotton, there are cheaper or cheaper varieties depending on their quality . It's also worth noting that cotton is a natural fiber that is more environmentally friendly . Abanderado is already committed to this commitment through its sustainable Ecosmart collections, made with organic cotton. In Abanderado's underwear collections, we leverage the advantages of polyester and cotton . This fusion has allowed us to design garments for all uses and preferences. Because it has been proven that the controversy between polyester and cotton is pointless. The important thing is to understand their respective qualities to make the most of your different needs when choosing underwear. Additionally, in another article on our blog, we discuss another fabric you'll find in some Abanderado garments: viscose for underwear .