Polyester
🏭 Synthetic Also called Poly, PET, Recycled polyester.
The most common fiber in clothing: a plastic, made from oil.
What it's made from
PET plastic (the same polymer as drink bottles), melted and extruded into fibers. "Recycled" polyester is usually made from bottles.
At a glance
| BreathabilityLets air and heat through | Low (2 of 5) |
|---|---|
| WarmthFor its weight | Medium (3 of 5) |
| Absorbs sweatPulls moisture off your skin | Very low (1 of 5) |
| DurabilityResists wear and pilling | Very high (5 of 5) |
| Wrinkle resistanceStays smooth | Very high (5 of 5) |
| Easy careMachine wash and dry | Very high (5 of 5) |
| Sheds microplasticsWhen washed | Yes |
| Biodegradable | No |
A general guide. The weave, weight and finish of a fabric matter as much as the fiber.
How it feels
Smooth and slick to fuzzy (fleece). Can feel clammy on hot days.
Good for
- Activewear that has to dry fast
- Rain shells and fleece
- Cheap, wrinkle-free basics
Watch for
- Holds on to body odor more than cotton or wool, even after washing.
- Sheds microplastic fibers in the wash.
- Hidden behind words like "satin", "chiffon", "fleece", "performance" and "poly".
Care
Machine wash, tumble dry low. Avoid high heat.
Often blended with
What those blends mean: Polyester + cotton · Polyester + spandex · Polyester + rayon
Compare
Guides
More synthetic fabrics
See it before you buy
TruTag reads the fabric on every clothing listing at Amazon, Target and Walmart and shows how much polyester is really in it, right under each search result. See how it works →