Three reasons why you should never buy polyester clothes

Did you know that polyester is the most widely used fiber in the fashion industry? This cheap fabric has become popular with the rise of fast fashion brands. It seems to be the perfect material, and right now, you’ll find many summer garments made of it. But in this article, I will give you three reasons why you should never buy polyester clothes anymore.

POLYESTER is a light fabric that, unlike linen, doesn’t crease. Because it is light and flowy, it is often used for summer blouses and dresses. As great as it may sound, polyester is, unfortunately, a “dirty” fabric for its impact on the environment.

It is not a breathable material; therefore, if you sweat, you smell, which makes sense since polyester is just one of many versions of plastic. And do you really want to walk around wrapped in plastic?

3 reasons why you should never buy polyester clothes

Reason 1: It is a synthetic material.

• Therefore, it is not biodegradable.

Reason 2: Fossil Fuels & Greenhouse gasses.

• Polyester (and Acrylic and Nylon) are derived from crude oil petroleum, a non-renewable natural resource.
• They represent a considerable carbon footprint ( energy, water, and toxic dyes).

Reason 3: Releasing microplastics when washed.

• When you wash synthetic fabrics, they release small microparticles, called microplastics, into the environment.
• To prevent this, use a Cora Ball or Guppyfriend laundry bag (available here) for all clothes made of synthetic materials.

But if you really want to buy a garment made of polyester, look for recycled polyester. It is made by recycling old PET bottles and fishing nets.

SUSTAINABLE ALTERNATIVES TO POLYESTER

• Linen
• Hemp
• Recycled or upcycled cotton
• Organic and ethical silk
• Organic and ethically produced bamboo fabric
• Lenzing Ecovero or Lenzing Modal fabrics – find out more about them in this article.
• Organic cotton