Nowadays, many people look at polyester with suspicion. Who hasn’t heard that it “ruins clothes”, that it “makes balls” and that it’s “less comfortable”?

This reputation may well have a ring of truth in some situations, but here at Dash, from the perspective of standardization, we believe that the secret lies in the context of use.

After all, each fabric has a specific function and can be the best ally for certain professional or non-professional uses.

To find out more about the characteristics of polyester and in which contexts it is advantageous to invest in a professional uniform with this fabric or not, read on.

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What is polyester and why has it gained a reputation as a villain?

Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from polymers derived from petroleum. The chemical reaction that produces it is responsible for generating a resistant and versatile fiber, which has come to be used to make fabrics.

Since its creation, polyester has been a revolutionary fabric, popularized mainly for its durability and low production costs.

But over time, concerns arose: the fabric became known for being less breathable than natural fibers, as well as having a tendency to ball up with prolonged use. This, coupled with the “artificial” look, has given polyester a negative image.

However, technology has evolved and so have polyester fabrics. Today, it is far from being just “that warm fabric” we used to know.

It’s important to understand that there are qualities and types of polyester, some designed to be more breathable and even recyclable, which makes all the difference to the end result and the user experience.

In the context of uniforms, polyester can NOT be considered a villain, as it has many essential qualities for this type of clothing, such as: high durability, does not fade, does not wrinkle easily, among others.

Context is everything! How do I know if polyester is good for me?

In order to assess whether polyester is suitable for your professional context, it is essential to rely on a uniform company that has the care and empathy to understand your specific needs.

Rather than focusing on the sale, this company should act as a partner, guiding you in the ideal choice based on your team’s daily routine and what will really make a difference at work.

But generally, an ideal uniform that balances practicality and comfort is the result of a combination of synthetic fibers such as polyester, which brings durability and strength, with natural fibers such as cotton, linen and viscose, which add softness and breathability.

Here are some examples of how this blend of fibers can be applied to uniforms:

Working outdoors or in environments without air conditioning

For outdoor activities, the choice of uniform needs to take into account the climate and mobility.

Ask yourself: Does the team work in high temperatures? Does the clothing need to withstand physical wear and tear?

For these situations, we suggest a blend of polyester and natural fibers, which guarantee a good balance between resistance and thermal comfort, helping employees to stay cool without compromising durability.

Hospital and clinic environments

Does the team work in a high-turnover environment and need uniforms that are always clean and ready?

If the goal is practicality in washing, resistance to stains and speed in drying, fabrics with a higher proportion of polyester can do the trick, as they don’t absorb much moisture and make it easier to maintain hygiene.

Also, in high-traffic areas where mobility is essential, we suggest a blend of cotton and elastane.

Cotton guarantees thermal comfort and softness for prolonged use, while elastane adds flexibility, allowing the fabric to accompany movement without limiting the professional.

Main questions about polyester

Now we’re going to go over the main doubts that people often have about polyester and show you how they can be solved without having to give up this material.

Is polyester fabric warm?

Yes, pure polyester can be warmer than natural fibers because it has a lower moisture absorption capacity and doesn’t allow as much air circulation.

However, blends of polyester with cotton or other natural fibers, such as linen, can solve this problem.

These combinations increase the breathability of the fabric, making it more comfortable in hot climates and in activities that require long periods of movement.

Is polyester fabric transparent?

Polyester, especially in thinner or low grammage versions, can be slightly transparent, depending on the color and type of finish on the fabric.

For uniforms that need a more opaque coverage, blends of polyester fabric with microfiber or other fibers such as viscose and cotton give the fabric greater density without weighing it down.

This results in uniforms that offer opaque and discreet coverage, essential for a more professional look.

Does polyester fade?

Polyester is actually one of the fabrics that is most resistant to fading, especially compared to natural fibers. It retains its color very well, even after several washes.

To maintain the durability of the color and still provide comfort, mixed fabrics with polyester and cotton are excellent, offering a vibrant and long-lasting appearance without giving up other qualities.

Does polyester ball up?

Polyester fabric can develop pilling over time, especially in areas of greater friction.

However, fabrics that mix polyester with viscose, cotton or modal tend to reduce this effect, making the uniform more resistant to everyday wear and tear.

These blends are particularly suitable for sectors where the appearance of uniforms needs to be maintained for longer.

Does polyester smell bad?

Because it is less breathable, pure polyester can accumulate odors more easily if it does not have adequate air circulation.

In uniforms, the use of mixed fabrics, such as polyester with cotton, polyester with microfiber or polyester with antibacterial fibers, are excellent for helping to dissipate sweat and allowing the fabric to dry more quickly, reducing the accumulation of moisture.

This is particularly useful for high-traffic work environments, where blending with a fresher fabric helps prevent odours throughout the day and contributes to hygiene.

Does polyester fray?

Polyester is a very resistant fiber and usually doesn’t fray easily. In mixed fabrics with polyester and cotton or polyester and nylon, the resistance to fraying increases even more.

These combinations result in more durable uniforms, ideal for work environments that require constant movement.

Does polyester wrinkle?

Polyester fabric has excellent resistance to wrinkles and is therefore widely used in garments that need to keep their appearance in line throughout the day.

Blends of polyester with other fibers, such as crepe, can balance this quality with a softer touch. The combination allows for a flattering fit, with less need for ironing, ideal for those looking for practicality in everyday use.

Does polyester fabric stretch?

Pure polyester is not naturally stretchy, but polyester blended fabrics with spandex or spandex solve this issue well, providing greater flexibility and comfort.

These fabrics are perfect for uniforms that need mobility, such as those used in activities that require frequent movement, guaranteeing a comfortable and functional fit.

Does polyester shrink?

Pure polyester rarely shrinks and is very resistant to shrinkage, even after washing.

In mixed fabrics, such as polyester and cotton, this characteristic is maintained, creating garments that offer durability and easy maintenance. Mixing with cotton also guarantees a soft touch, combining the best of both fabrics.

Does polyester stick to hair?

Yes, polyester fabric can attract hair and lint, especially if it is 100% polyester. This is because polyester is a synthetic fiber that creates a slight static charge, which makes it easier for hair, dust and lint to adhere to it.

To solve this problem, a good solution is to opt for mixed fabrics, such as polyester with cotton or viscose. The addition of natural fibers reduces the static charge, making the fabric less likely to attract lint.

Is polyester waterproof?

Polyester in its pure form is naturally water-resistant, but not completely waterproof.

It can repel a little moisture, which helps in mild situations of contact with water, such as splashes, but does not prevent water from passing through in large quantities or under pressure.

For uniforms that require protection against moisture, a blend of polyester and microfiber is an excellent choice.

Microfiber has a very fine yarn structure that increases water resistance, making the fabric more waterproof than pure polyester.

This combination creates a fabric that dries quickly, resists damp environments well and offers greater protection against water penetration, making it ideal for outdoor areas or activities that involve contact with moisture.

In contexts where total waterproofing is required, it is still possible to apply additional treatments, such as resin coatings, which increase the ability to repel water without compromising comfort.

Is 100% polyester fabric any good?

Yes, 100% polyester fabric can be an excellent choice for uniforms, depending on the context and specific needs. It offers several advantages that make it practical and durable for the professional environment.

The main advantages of investing in 100% polyester uniforms:

1. High durability: Polyester is extremely resistant to wear, tear and fraying. This makes it a great choice for everyday uniforms in environments that require durability and resistance to adverse conditions.
2. Does not wrinkle easily: Polyester fabric is naturally resistant to wrinkles, keeping the uniform looking neat for longer and reducing the need for ironing. This is ideal for companies that need uniforms that look good throughout the working day.
3. Stain resistance: Polyester is less absorbent than other fabrics, which makes it easier to remove stains and allows the uniform to stay looking clean for longer. This benefit is ideal for environments where there is constant contact with dirt or products that can stain.
4. Color retention: Polyester fabric keeps colors bright and intense even after several washes. This ensures that uniforms continue to look professional and well cared for, which is essential for companies that value their brand image.
5. Quick drying: As a fabric with low water absorption, polyester dries quickly after washing. This is very practical for uniforms, as it reduces drying time and makes maintenance easier.
6. Cost-effectiveness: Compared to other fibers, polyester is generally more affordable, offering good value for money for companies that need uniforms in larger quantities without compromising on durability.
7. Low shrinkage: Polyester fabric has great dimensional stability, which means it doesn’t shrink after washing. This is an advantage for uniforms that need to maintain the same fit over time.

These characteristics make 100% polyester an efficient choice for uniforms in various professional areas, especially where you’re looking for a material that’s practical, easy to care for and durable.

Care of polyester fabric

Polyester offers many advantages, such as durability and practicality, but, like any fabric, it requires some care to maximize its useful life.

No fabric is completely resistant if it is poorly cared for, and that goes for polyester too.

Below, we answer the main questions about how to care for this material to keep it in good condition.

Can polyester fabric be ironed?

Yes, polyester fabric can be ironed, but it is important to set the iron to a low or medium temperature, usually indicated as “synthetic” on most appliances.

High temperatures can damage the fibers, causing the fabric to melt or get shiny marks.

If you prefer, the polyester can be ironed with a light cloth over it to avoid direct contact with the iron.

How do I get the stain out of polyester?

To remove stains from polyester, it is best to use mild detergents or specific products for synthetic fabrics.

Avoid aggressive products, such as strong bleaches, and prefer to gently rub the stain before washing.

For more difficult stains, it is recommended to soak for a short time in warm water with neutral soap, but always follow the instructions on the garment’s label.

Does polyester stain with bleach?

Yes, polyester can stain with bleach and chlorinated products. As it is a synthetic fiber, it is more sensitive to aggressive chemical products that can fade or weaken the fabric.

To lighten polyester or remove stains, opt for products suitable for colored clothes or use chlorine-free bleach.

Can polyester go in the dryer?

Yes, polyester can be put in the dryer, but at a low temperature.

High temperatures can cause shrinkage or damage the structure of the fibers, leaving the fabric with a less uniform appearance.

If possible, use the drying cycle for synthetic clothes, or choose to dry the garment naturally by hanging it in an airy place.

Can polyester fabric be machine washed?

Yes, polyester is safe to machine wash. However, we recommend using a delicate wash cycle to avoid unnecessary wear.

To protect the fabric even more, turn the garments inside out and, if possible, use washing bags to prevent friction with other clothes from causing bubbles or wear.

Have you decided to invest in a polyester uniform?

As we’ve seen, polyester is a versatile fabric and, depending on your work context, it can be an ideal choice or, in some cases, less suitable.

Precisely because of its flexibility, polyester is easily combined with other fibers to meet different needs, bringing attributes such as comfort, resistance and lightness.

At Dashwe offer a wide range of uniforms made from pure polyester fabric and in combinations with cotton, elastane, microfiber and viscose, among others. So you can choose the composition that best suits your environment and your daily needs.

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If you still haven’t figured out which polyester composition suits you, don’t hesitate to call our consultants on the whatsapp button opposite and they’ll be happy to help you.