If you are shopping for bed sheets, you may be wondering whether polyester or microfiber is a better option for you. Both fabrics are synthetic, meaning they are made from man-made materials, and both have some advantages and disadvantages. In this article, we will compare polyester and microfiber bed sheets based on their characteristics, such as breathability, durability, softness, warmth, ease of care, cost and uses.
Contents
What Is Polyester?
Polyester is one of the most common and widely used fabrics in the world. It is made from petroleum and petroleum-derived products. Polyester fabric is inexpensive to produce and has some desirable properties, such as resistance to wrinkles, shrinkage, fading and stains. Polyester fabric is also easy to wash and dry.
However, polyester fabric also has some drawbacks. It tends to have a synthetic feel and look, which some people may not like. It also does not breathe well, meaning it can trap heat and moisture and make you feel hot and sweaty. Polyester fabric can also be prone to pilling, which is when small balls of fiber form on the surface of the fabric due to friction.
What Is Microfiber?
Microfiber is a type of polyester fabric that is made from very fine fibers that are thinner than a human hair¹. Microfiber fabric is usually made from a blend of polyester and nylon. Microfiber fabric has some advantages over regular polyester fabric, such as being softer, silkier, more breathable and more water-absorbent. Microfiber fabric is also good for cleaning because it can attract and trap dust and dirt particles.
However, microfiber fabric also has some disadvantages. It tends to be less durable than regular polyester fabric because the fine fibers can break easily. Microfiber fabric can also be more expensive than regular polyester fabric because the manufacturing process is more complex. Microfiber fabric can also be tricky to care for because it can attract lint and static electricity from other fabrics.
How to Compare Polyester and Microfiber Bed Sheets
When choosing between polyester and microfiber bed sheets, you should consider the following factors:
- Breathability: Microfiber bed sheets are more breathable than polyester bed sheets because the fine fibers allow more air to pass through the fabric. This can make microfiber bed sheets more comfortable for hot sleepers or warm climates. Polyester bed sheets are less breathable than microfiber bed sheets because the fibers are thicker and tighter, which can trap heat and moisture.
- Durability: Polyester bed sheets are more durable than microfiber bed sheets because the fibers are stronger and more resistant to wear and tear. Polyester bed sheets can also withstand higher temperatures without shrinking or melting. Microfiber bed sheets are less durable than polyester bed sheets because the fine fibers can break easily due to friction or washing.
- Softness: Microfiber bed sheets are softer than polyester bed sheets because the fine fibers create a smooth and silky texture. Microfiber bed sheets can also feel more cozy and warm because they have a higher density of fibers per square inch. Polyester bed sheets are stiffer than microfiber bed sheets because the fibers are thicker and coarser.
- Warmth: Both polyester and microfiber bed sheets are warm fabrics because they are synthetic and do not allow much air circulation. However, microfiber bed sheets may be slightly warmer than polyester bed sheets because they have a higher density of fibers per square inch, which can trap more heat. Polyester bed sheets may be slightly cooler than microfiber bed sheets because they have a lower density of fibers per square inch, which can allow more heat to escape.
- Ease of care: Both polyester and microfiber bed sheets are easy to care for because they are machine washable and dryable. However, there are some differences in how to wash and dry them properly. Polyester bed sheets can be washed with any other fabrics at any temperature without damaging them. However, they should be dried at a low or medium heat setting to prevent wrinkling or melting. Microfiber bed sheets should be washed separately from other fabrics or with other microfiber items only to prevent lint or static buildup. They should also be washed in cold water with mild detergent to prevent fading or pilling. They should be dried at a low heat setting or air dried to prevent shrinking or breaking the fibers.
- Cost: Both polyester and microfiber bed sheets are relatively inexpensive compared to natural fabrics such as cotton or silk. However, microfiber bed sheets may be slightly more expensive than polyester bed sheets because the manufacturing process is more complex and requires more resources.
- Uses: Both polyester and microfiber bed sheets can be used for various purposes and in different settings. Polyester bed sheets are more versatile and suitable for any type of bed or mattress. They are also more resistant to stains and odors, which can make them ideal for children’s rooms or guest rooms. Microfiber bed sheets are more specialized and suitable for people who prefer a soft and cozy feel . They are also more hypoallergenic and antibacterial, which can make them ideal for people with allergies or sensitive skin.
Conclusion
Polyester and microfiber are both synthetic fabrics that have some similarities and differences. Polyester is a more common and widely used fabric that is cheaper, more durable, and easier to care for. Microfiber is a more refined and specialized fabric that is softer, more breathable, and more water-absorbent. When choosing between polyester and microfiber bed sheets, you should consider your personal preferences, budget, and needs. Both fabrics can offer comfort and quality, but they may suit different types of sleepers and climates better.
