Two textiles that frequently come up in discussions about eco-friendly fashion are recycled polyester and organic cotton. The question of whether Organic Cotton vs Recycled Polyester is better for the UK summer is one that many people have as sustainable fashion gains traction in the country, particularly during the warmer months.
Although both materials are promoted as eco-friendly substitutes for traditional textiles, their practicality, comfort, performance, and environmental impact vary. To help you make an informed decision, this article will dissect each factor.
What Is Organic Cotton and Why Does It Matter?
Genetically modified seeds, synthetic pesticides, and insecticides are not used in the production of organic cotton. Natural farming methods are employed by farmers to maintain biodiversity, conserve water, and maintain soil health.
Among the main advantages of organic cotton are:
Breathability: In warm weather, clothing stays cooler because cotton fibres naturally permit airflow.
Comfort: Ideal for sensitive skin, this product is hypoallergenic, soft, and skin-friendly.
Biodegradability: it decomposes at the end of its life cycle because it is entirely natural.
Organic cotton provides comfort and breathability during the UK’s summer months, when temperatures can fluctuate from pleasant warmth to surprisingly high humidity.
What Is Recycled Polyester and How Is It Made?
PET bottles and other used plastics are melted down and spun into new fibres to create recycled polyester, or rPET. This method revitalises waste plastic and lessens dependency on virgin petroleum.
Among the main advantages of recycled polyester are:
Durability: Sturdy and impervious to wrinkling, shrinking, and stretching.
Moisture-wicking: Keeps you dry by rapidly removing perspiration from the skin.
Lightweight: Perfect for travel attire and sportswear.
Recycled polyester can offer quick-drying and moisture-resistant qualities during the UK summers, which occasionally include unexpected rain or humid spells.
How Do Organic Cotton and Recycled Polyester Compare in Comfort?
Comfort is frequently the first consideration when deciding whether recycled polyester or organic cotton is better for the UK summer.
Organic Cotton: Perfect for casual wear on hot days, this fabric is soft, breathable, and cooling. It is less suitable in damp or rainy weather, though, because it can absorb moisture.
Recycled polyester: lightweight and moisture-wicking, it keeps you dry while cycling or hiking. On very hot days, however, it might feel less breathable than cotton.
Organic cotton is more comfortable for daily wear in the UK summer, while recycled polyester is better for active lifestyles.
Which Fabric Is More Sustainable in the Long Run?
Although both textiles claim to be environmentally friendly, their sustainability varies.
Organic cotton is biodegradable, conserves biodiversity, and uses fewer chemicals. However, depending on the area, it needs a lot of water to grow.
Compared to virgin polyester, recycled polyester lowers carbon emissions and plastic waste. But when it is washed, it releases microplastics that contaminate rivers.
While recycled polyester reduces plastic waste, organic cotton is better for biodegradability from an environmental perspective.
How Do They Perform in UK Weather Conditions?
Sunny afternoons can quickly give way to rainy evenings in the UK’s unpredictable summer. How do these textiles respond to the change, then?
Organic Cotton: Ideal for warm, dry climates. It keeps you comfortable and cool, but if it gets wet, it takes longer to dry.
Recycled polyester: Works better when it’s raining or humid. Because it dries quickly, it’s perfect for outdoor activities and travel.
Conclusion: Recycled polyester might be a more sensible option if you’re organising outdoor events or festivals where rain is predicted. Organic cotton feels fresher when worn casually every day.
Which Fabric Is Better for Activewear and Sports?
Sustainable materials are being used more often to make activewear, but is polyester or cotton a better option?
Activewear made of organic cotton is soft on the skin but does not wick away moisture. During exercise, it may feel damp and heavy.
Stretchy, strong, and moisture-resistant, recycled polyester sportswear is ideal for summertime cycling, running, and gym visits in the UK.
It is obvious that recycled polyester is a better option for sportswear and activewear.
How Affordable Are Organic Cotton and Recycled Polyester in the UK?
For UK consumers trying to strike a balance between affordability and sustainability, price is a crucial consideration.
Because of its certifications and ethical farming methods, organic cotton is typically more expensive.
Recycled polyester is frequently more affordable and accessible in fast-fashion and sportswear brands.
Recycled polyester might be more affordable if money is tight. However, the comfort and biodegradability of organic cotton provide long-term value.
Which Fabric Is Better for Skin Health During Summer?
Summers in the UK can occasionally be humid, and fabrics can easily cause reactions in people with sensitive skin.
For those who are prone to rashes, eczema, or irritation, organic cotton is the best option because it is naturally hypoallergenic and soft on the skin.
Recycled polyester is lightweight, but it can occasionally retain heat and induce perspiration, which can irritate sensitive skin.
Organic cotton is the safer choice for skin health.
Can Organic Cotton and Recycled Polyester Be Combined?
Curiously, a lot of fashion brands in the UK now combine the two materials. For instance:
Blends of cotton and polyester: Provide a harmony of softness, toughness, and speed of drying.
Cross-seasonal T-shirts, joggers, and jackets are examples of fashion and sports hybrids.
Blended textiles can provide the “best of both worlds” if you are unable to choose just one.
Organic Cotton vs Recycled Polyester: Which Is Better for UK Summer?
Which fabric, then, ought to be selected? Your needs and lifestyle will determine the answer.
If you want comfortable, breathable, and environmentally friendly summer clothing, go for organic cotton.
If you require lightweight, long-lasting, and moisture-wicking apparel for active days or inclement weather, go for recycled polyester.
While recycled polyester is more useful for travel, sports, and rainy days, organic cotton is typically better for comfort and skin health during the UK summer.
Conclusion
There is no universally applicable solution when it comes to the question of whether recycled polyester or organic cotton is better for the UK summer. Both materials have advantages: recycled polyester is superior in terms of durability, quick drying, and affordability, while organic cotton is superior in terms of comfort, breathability, and biodegradability.
The best option ultimately depends on your sustainability values, budget, and activities. The most well-rounded option for the typical UK summer wardrobe might be a combination of recycled polyester sportswear and organic cotton basics.
