In the textile industry polyester cotton fabric is the most featureable fabric. In this fabric different features of cotton and polyesters are mixe. Actually polycotton fabric is the blend of synthetic polyester and natural cotton. This combination is used in variety of fashion garments.
Being a reliable fabric manufacturer, we will ensure what polycotton is, the applications, advantages, and disadvantages, and everything you need to learn about this fabric.
What is polycotton?
Polycotton is a mixture of cotton and polyester. Cotton is a natural fabric known for being soft, comfortable, and breathe through. Polyester is a synthetic fabric known for its strength, durability, and elasticity.
Due to the polycotton fabric being a mixture of cotton and polyester, it takes the best qualities of both fabrics.
How is polycotton made?
Polycotton is a blend of two fabrics: polyester, a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum, and cotton, a natural fiber harvested from the cotton plant. This mixture brings together the best properties of both fabrics. The most common polycotton blend ratios include:
- 65% Polyester / 35% Cotton – Offers excellent durability, wrinkle resistance, and quick drying; commonly used for uniforms and workwear.
- 50% Polyester / 50% Cotton – A balanced blend that provides both comfort and strength, suitable for casual clothing and bed linens.
- 80% Polyester / 20% Cotton – Prioritizes strength and wrinkle resistance over softness; often used in industrial or commercial textiles.
- 35% Polyester / 65% Cotton – Higher cotton content for increased softness and breathability, ideal for clothing worn close to the skin.
History of polycotton fabric:
Polycotton is a fabric made by blending cotton and polyester. Cotton has been used for thousands of years for its softness and breathability, while polyester was invented in the 1940s for its strength and wrinkle resistance. In the 1960s, manufacturers began mixing the two to create a fabric that is both comfortable and durable. Since then, polycotton has become widely used in clothing, bedding, and everyday textiles.
Properties of polyester cotton fabric
The unique properties of polycotton fabric offer a balanced mix of comfort, durability, and elasticity. Here we discuss its properties in detail.
Durability:
Polycotton is stronger and durable in tear and wear as compared to natural cotton.
Softness and comfort:
Polycotton is very soft and comfortable compared to natural cotton. Polycotton is comfortable to wear, especially in everyday wear. This fabric allows air to circulate and moisture compared to polyester.
Breathability:
Polycotton is more breathable fabric as polyester. Due to this, it is very comfortable to use in hot weather.
Cost-effective:
Polycotton is the mixture of cotton and polyester. Natural cotton is more expensive than polyester, and polycotton is between these two fabrics.
Uses of polyester cotton fabric
The polycotton fabric is used for clothing and apparel, sportswear, school uniforms, workout wear, and home textiles
Clothing and Apparel:
Polycotton is widely used in all types of clothing due to its softness, durability, and easy care. It’s especially popular in everyday wear like T-shirts and casual outfits.
Sportswear:
Thanks to its breathable and lightweight nature, polycotton is often used in activewear and sportswear, offering comfort during physical activity.
School Uniforms and Children’s Clothing:
Polycotton is a top choice for school uniforms and kids’ clothing because it’s gentle on the skin, long-lasting, and easy to wash.
Workwear and Outerwear:
Its durability makes polycotton perfect for workwear, including jackets, uniforms, and protective clothing used in various industries.
Home Textiles:
In homes, polycotton is used for bedsheets, tablecloths, and sofa covers. It provides a comfortable feel while being strong enough to handle regular use and washing.
Advantages and disadvantages of polycotton fabric
Advantages
- Durable
- Comfortable
- Breathable
- Cost-effective
- Easy to care
Disadvantages:
- Less breathable than cotton
- Not for sensitive skin
- Not good for high heat
- Less natural
- Envoirmental impact
FAQs about polyester-cotton fabric
Q.1. Is polycotton breathable?
Yes, polycotton is a breathable fabric. Natural cotton is not 100% breathable. Cotton allows the airflow, which makes it comfortable.
Q.2. Is polycotton good for summer?
Polycotton can be worn in summer. But in extremely hot weather, polycotton can not be used.
Q.3. Is polycotton eco-friendly?
Polyester is not as eco-friendly as 100% natural fibre, since polyester is petroleum-based. It lasts longer, which can reduce fabric waste over time.
Q.4. Can polycotton be ironed?
Yes, but it’s best to use a low to medium heat setting when ironing polycotton. High heat can damage the polyester fibers.
Q.5. Does polycotton shrink?
Polycotton is less likely to shrink compared to 100% cotton, thanks to the polyester fibers that help the fabric maintain its shape.
