Polyester vs. Viscose — What's the Difference?

Polyester, a fully synthetic fabric, is known for its durability and resistance to wrinkles and shrinking. Made from petroleum-based fibers, it is often used in a wide range of apparel and home furnishings. Viscose, also known as rayon, is a semi-synthetic fabric made from regenerated cellulose, typically derived from wood pulp. It is valued for its silk-like feel and its ability to mimic the properties of natural fibers like cotton or silk.

The production process of polyester involves the polymerization of ethylene glycol with terephthalic acid, resulting in a strong and stable fiber. This process makes polyester less breathable but highly resistant to environmental conditions. Viscose production, on the other hand, involves dissolving wood pulp and regenerating it into fibers. This process gives viscose its unique drape and softness, but the fibers are weaker, especially when wet.

Polyester is known for its low moisture absorbency, which contributes to its quick-drying properties. It is often used in outdoor and performance wear due to its ability to wick moisture away from the body. Viscose, in contrast, is highly absorbent and offers more breathability, making it comfortable for wear in warm climates, but it can lose strength when wet and is less durable over time.

In terms of care, polyester is low-maintenance, often requiring just basic washing and drying. It is less prone to wrinkles and maintains its shape well over time. Viscose requires more careful handling, often needing gentle washing and air drying to maintain its texture and prevent shrinking or warping.

Environmentally, polyester is less sustainable due to its petroleum-based origin and longer degradation time. Recycling initiatives are improving its eco-footprint. Viscose, while made from renewable resources, has environmental concerns due to the chemicals used in its production process, though eco-friendly variants are being developed.