Polyester Vs Cashmere: Differences Between Fabrics

When it comes to fabric choices, polyester and cashmere are two distinct options with their own unique characteristics. Polyester, a synthetic fabric, is known for its affordability, durability, and moisture-wicking properties.

On the other hand, cashmere, a natural fabric derived from the soft undercoat of the cashmere goat, is renowned for its luxurious softness, insulation capabilities, and high cost.

Understanding the differences between these fabrics is crucial in making informed decisions regarding their application, care, environmental impact, and other factors.

In this discussion, we will explore various aspects such as insulation, moisture-wicking, sustainability, stretchiness, and more to shed light on the disparities between polyester and cashmere.

Key Differences Between Polyester Vs Cashmere

Fabric Origin

• Polyester: Polyester is a synthetic fabric that is derived from petroleum-based chemicals. It is created through a process called polymerization, where ester monomers are combined to form long-chain polymers. This synthetic composition allows for the mass production of polyester fabric.
• Cashmere: Cashmere, on the other hand, is a natural fabric obtained from the soft undercoat of the cashmere goat. The fibers are harvested through a process called combing or shearing. Cashmere goats are primarily found in regions like Mongolia, China, and Iran. The cashmere fibers are carefully collected and processed to create the luxurious cashmere fabric.

Softness

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is known for its durability and resistance, but it is generally less soft compared to cashmere. The synthetic nature of polyester can result in a slightly rougher texture, especially when compared to the luxurious softness of cashmere.
• Cashmere: Cashmere is renowned for its exceptional softness. The fibers of cashmere goats’ undercoat are incredibly fine and delicate, providing a luxurious feel against the skin. Cashmere is often sought after for its unparalleled softness and comfort.

Durability

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is highly durable and known for its resistance to wrinkles, stretching, and shrinking. It retains its shape and appearance even after multiple washes. The strong synthetic fibers in polyester make it a reliable choice for garments that require longevity and durability.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric, while incredibly soft, is not as durable as polyester. Cashmere fibers are delicate and can be prone to pilling, especially with extended use. Proper care and handling are essential to maintain the longevity of cashmere garments. Despite its lower durability, cashmere is still highly valued for its luxurious qualities.

Cost

• Polyester: One of the significant advantages of polyester fabric is its affordability. The synthetic nature of polyester allows for mass production at a lower cost compared to natural fibers like cashmere. This affordability makes polyester widely accessible and a popular choice for budget-friendly options.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is considered a luxury material, which reflects in its higher cost. The scarcity of cashmere fibers and the specialized processing involved contribute to the elevated price of cashmere products. Cashmere is known for its opulence and exclusivity, making it a sought-after fabric for those willing to invest in high-quality, luxurious items.

Insulation:

• Polyester: Polyester fabric has excellent thermal insulation properties. It is known for its ability to provide warmth in cold weather. The synthetic fibers in polyester help trap heat close to the body, making it suitable for outerwear, fleece jackets, and blankets. Polyester insulation is lightweight and offers insulation without excessive bulk.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is highly regarded for its insulation capabilities. The fine fibers of cashmere provide excellent warmth without adding excessive weight or bulk. Cashmere has natural insulation properties that help regulate body temperature, keeping the wearer warm in colder conditions and cool in milder climates.

Moisture Wicking

• Polyester: One of the notable properties of polyester fabric is its moisture-wicking ability. Polyester has a low absorbency rate, meaning it does not retain moisture but instead draws sweat away from the body. This moisture-wicking property helps keep the wearer dry and comfortable during physical activities or in warm climates.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is not typically known for its moisture-wicking properties. It has a higher absorbency rate compared to polyester. While cashmere can absorb some moisture, it is not as efficient at wicking away sweat. Cashmere is better suited for providing warmth and insulation rather than actively managing moisture.

Weight

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is lightweight, making it comfortable to wear and easy to layer. The synthetic nature of polyester allows for the production of thin and lightweight fabrics, which is advantageous for activities that require freedom of movement or when weight is a concern.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is also lightweight, despite its excellent insulation properties. The fine fibers of cashmere create a lightweight fabric that offers warmth without adding excessive weight. Cashmere garments are comfortable to wear and do not feel heavy or bulky on the body.

Wrinkle Resistance

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is known for its wrinkle resistance. It has the ability to retain its shape and appearance even after repeated washes and use. Polyester garments are less prone to wrinkling, making them suitable for travel or situations where a neat and wrinkle-free appearance is desired.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric, although luxurious, is more prone to wrinkling compared to polyester. The delicate nature of cashmere fibers and the fine knit or weave can lead to creases and wrinkles with extended use or improper care. It is recommended to handle cashmere garments with care and follow the manufacturer’s instructions to minimize wrinkling.

Care and Maintenance

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is relatively easy to care for. It is machine washable and can withstand regular washing without losing its shape or color. Polyester garments also dry quickly, reducing the need for extended drying time. However, it is important to follow the specific care instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure the longevity of the fabric.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric requires more delicate care and maintenance compared to polyester. It is typically recommended to hand wash cashmere garments using gentle detergents or dry clean them to preserve their softness and shape. Cashmere should be dried flat to prevent stretching or distortion. Additionally, cashmere garments may need occasional gentle brushing to remove any pilling or fibers.

Availability

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is widely available and can be found in various stores, both online and offline. It is a common fabric used in a wide range of products, including clothing, bedding, upholstery, and outdoor gear. Polyester is readily accessible in a multitude of colors, patterns, and textures.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is considered a luxury material, and as such, its availability is more limited compared to polyester. Cashmere garments and accessories are often found in high-end fashion boutiques or specialty stores. The availability of cashmere may vary depending on the region and the demand for luxury fabrics.

Environmental Impact

• Polyester: Polyester fabric has a higher environmental impact compared to cashmere. It is derived from petroleum-based chemicals, which are non-renewable resources. The production process of polyester involves energy-intensive procedures and the release of greenhouse gases. Additionally, polyester is not biodegradable, and discarded polyester garments contribute to plastic waste in landfills.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric has a relatively lower environmental impact compared to polyester. It is a natural fiber derived from the cashmere goats’ undercoat, which is renewable. However, cashmere production requires careful management of grazing lands and sustainable practices to ensure the well-being of the goats and maintain the quality of the fiber. Proper disposal or recycling of cashmere garments can minimize its environmental impact.

Allergenic Potential

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is generally considered hypoallergenic and less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies. It is not a common trigger for allergic reactions and is suitable for individuals with sensitive skin or allergies to natural fibers like wool.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is also known for its hypoallergenic properties. It is less likely to cause skin irritation or allergies compared to other wool fibers. Cashmere’s fine and soft texture makes it gentle on the skin, reducing the risk of allergic reactions.

Variety of Colors

• Polyester: Polyester fabric offers a wide variety of colors, patterns, and prints. It is highly versatile in terms of dyeing and can be produced in vibrant and bold shades. Polyester garments and products are available in an extensive range of colors to suit different preferences and fashion trends.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is typically available in more natural hues and earthy tones. Cashmere garments often come in classic colors such as black, gray, beige, and various shades of brown. While there may be some variations and limited options for unique colors, cashmere is appreciated more for its luxurious texture and quality than for a wide range of color choices.

Application

• Polyester: Polyester fabric has a wide range of applications. It is commonly used in clothing, such as shirts, dresses, and sportswear, due to its durability and affordability. Polyester is also used in home textiles like curtains, bedding, and upholstery. Additionally, it is a popular choice for outdoor gear like jackets, tents, and backpacks.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is primarily used in luxury garments and accessories. It is highly sought after for its softness and luxurious feel, making it ideal for high-end sweaters, scarves, shawls, and wraps. Cashmere is often associated with luxury fashion and is favored by those who appreciate the finer qualities of clothing and accessories.

Production Process

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is produced through a process called polymerization. Petroleum-based chemicals are transformed into long-chain polymers known as polyester. These polymers are then extruded into fibers, which are spun into yarns and woven or knitted to create the fabric. The production process of polyester involves complex chemical reactions and energy-intensive procedures.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric production involves harvesting the soft undercoat of cashmere goats. The fibers are obtained through a process called combing or shearing, where the goats’ winter coat is carefully collected. The harvested fibers then undergo cleaning, sorting, and spinning to create cashmere yarns. The production of cashmere fabric requires specialized skills and attention to detail.

Sustainability

• Polyester: Polyester fabric has a lower sustainability profile compared to cashmere. It is derived from non-renewable resources and involves the use of petroleum-based chemicals. The production process of polyester consumes significant energy and releases greenhouse gases. Additionally, polyester is not biodegradable, contributing to plastic waste in landfills.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric is considered more sustainable compared to polyester. It is a natural fiber obtained from cashmere goats, which are renewable resources. However, sustainable cashmere production requires responsible grazing practices, proper land management, and ethical treatment of animals. Proper disposal and recycling of cashmere garments also contribute to its sustainability.

Stretchiness

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is known for its limited stretchiness. It typically has less natural elasticity compared to other fabrics like cotton or elastane. Polyester garments may have a slight stretch due to the weave or knit structure, but it does not provide significant stretch and recovery.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric exhibits natural stretch and elasticity. The fine cashmere fibers have inherent flexibility, allowing the fabric to stretch and then return to its original shape. Cashmere garments provide comfort and ease of movement due to their natural stretchiness, contributing to a better fit and drape.

Static Electricity

• Polyester: Polyester fabric tends to generate static electricity due to its synthetic nature. It has a higher tendency to build up an electrical charge when rubbed against certain materials or when exposed to dry environments. This can cause static cling and discomfort, as well as attract dust and lint.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric has natural properties that make it less prone to static electricity. The fine fibers and moisture-absorbing qualities of cashmere help reduce static buildup. Cashmere garments are less likely to cling to the body or attract static-related issues, providing a more comfortable wearing experience.

Odor Retention

• Polyester: Polyester fabric has the tendency to retain odors, especially when it comes into contact with sweat or body oils. The synthetic fibers in polyester can trap and hold onto odorous substances, requiring more frequent washing or specialized odor-eliminating treatments to keep the fabric smelling fresh.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric has natural breathability, which helps reduce odor retention. The fibers allow for better air circulation, minimizing the likelihood of odors becoming trapped within the fabric. Cashmere garments typically have better odor control compared to polyester, requiring less frequent washing to maintain freshness.

Longevity

• Polyester: Polyester fabric is known for its durability and longevity. It is resistant to stretching, shrinking, and wrinkling, retaining its shape and appearance even after repeated use and washing. Polyester garments can withstand regular wear and maintain their quality for an extended period, making them a durable choice.
• Cashmere: Cashmere fabric, while luxurious, requires more careful handling and maintenance to ensure longevity. The delicate nature of cashmere fibers makes them more susceptible to pilling, stretching, and damage if not properly cared for. With proper care, including gentle washing, storing flat, and occasional brushing, cashmere garments can last for many years.

Polyester Vs Cashmere: Comparison Table

Criteria	Polyester	Cashmere
Fabric Origin	Synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based chemicals	Natural fabric derived from cashmere goat’s undercoat
Softness	Less soft compared to cashmere	Exceptionally soft and luxurious
Durability	Highly durable, resistant to wrinkles, stretching, and shrinking	Less durable, requires delicate handling
Cost	Affordable	Expensive
Insulation	Excellent thermal insulation properties	Excellent warmth without excessive weight
Moisture Wicking	Has moisture-wicking properties	Allows breathability, prevents overheating
Weight	Lightweight	Lightweight, provides warmth without bulk
Wrinkle Resistance	Resistant to wrinkles	May develop wrinkles with extended use
Care and Maintenance	Easy to care for, retains shape and appearance after washing	Requires delicate washing and handling
Availability	Widely available	Limited availability, luxury market
Environmental Impact	Petroleum-based, non-biodegradable fabric	Natural fiber, biodegradable
Allergenic Potential	Can cause skin irritation in some individuals	Generally hypoallergenic, less likely to cause irritation
Variety of Colors	Available in a wide range of colors	Usually available in natural hues
Application	Versatile, used in various products such as clothing, bedding, and upholstery	Primarily used for luxury garments and accessories
Production Process	Synthetic fiber production through polymerization	Harvesting and processing of cashmere fibers
Sustainability	Less sustainable due to petroleum-based production	More sustainable as a natural fiber
Stretchiness	Less stretchy compared to cashmere	Exhibits natural stretch and elasticity
Static Electricity	Prone to static buildup	Less prone to static buildup
Odor Retention	Can retain odors over time	Resistant to odors, requires less frequent washing
Longevity	Long-lasting and maintains appearance over time	Requires proper care to maintain longevity

Frequently Asked Questions

To Recap

Polyester and cashmere offer distinct qualities and serve different purposes in the world of fabrics. Polyester excels in durability, affordability, moisture-wicking, and availability, making it a practical choice for various applications.

On the other hand, cashmere embodies luxury, softness, insulation, and a higher cost. Considerations such as care and maintenance, environmental impact, stretchiness, and odor retention play vital roles in deciding between the two fabrics.

By understanding their unique attributes, individuals can make informed choices based on their specific needs and preferences, ultimately ensuring satisfaction and suitability in their fabric selection.