Polyester is a strong and durable fiber with great functional properties, but it does come with challenges. Nina Roana Engebretsen, Design Manager at Cubus, shares more about polyester textiles.
What exactly is polyester, why is the material used in textile production, and what is Cubus doing to help reduce its environmental impact?
Did you know that: Polyester makes up 54% of all fibers produced globally? And that polyester accounts for only 12% of the fibers used at Cubus?
Polyester is a synthetic fiber, unlike, for example, cotton, wool, and linen, which are classified as natural fibers. The biggest difference between the two categories is that natural fibers come from natural resources, while synthetic fibers are produced through chemical processes, with crude oil being the main ingredient. A middle ground between these is regenerated fibers, which are artificial fibers made from natural resources, often cellulose. Materials like viscose, lyocell, or modal are regenerated fibers.
"Synthetic materials like polyester are essentially plastic, as they are derived from oil. The same applies to other synthetic fibers like polyamide, acrylic, and elastane," Nina explains.
The reason polyester has somewhat of a bad reputation stems from the fact that it is made from oil, the designer says.
"Oil is a fossil fuel, and its extraction often impacts other natural resources. The production of such materials also requires the use of more chemicals. And unlike natural materials such as cotton and wool, polyester does not break down in nature."
Because of its comfort, durability, and ability to dry quickly while retaining color and shape, polyester has long been the preferred material for swimwear. Polyester is also commonly used for outdoor and activity clothing because it is durable, lightweight, and has water-repellent properties.
"Since polyester is made from plastic, it can be shaped in many different ways to resemble other materials, like wool or viscose. Additionally, it doesn't wrinkle as natural materials often do, making it a practical choice if you don't have an iron handy. That's why it's easy to travel with, for example," says Nina, adding:
Polyester is also often used in combination with other materials, such as wool, cotton, or viscose. When polyester is mixed with other fibers, they strengthen each other.
"Polyester is easy to care for. It can withstand use and washing, which means that the garments will last a long time, whether they are made from pure polyester or a blend. Polyester is machine-washable, but be sure to follow the care instructions. It shouldn't be washed at too high a temperature and should be air-dried rather than tumble-dried."
At Cubus, and Varner, of which Cubus is a part, we are committed to working with materials that reduce our climate impact. That’s why we aim to offer 100% preferred fibers by the end of 2025.
As a member of Textile Exchange, we use their definition of preferred fibers. This definition includes all fibers that have less impact on the environment and climate than conventional types of materials used in textile production. This includes, for example, recycled polyester.
"Recycled polyester is a better alternative as the raw material has already been created, so these products leave a smaller footprint," explains the designer.
As a consumer, you can also help reduce the environmental impact of the garment by passing it on when you're done with it. Perhaps someone you know can take over the garment? Alternatively, you can also donate used clothes to Fretex.
• Functional properties, durable, and long-lasting
• Wrinkle-resistant – practical for travel
• Machine washable. Wash at a low temperature and wash infrequently to extend the life of the garments
• We are working towards 100% use of recycled polyester – a more environmentally conscious choice