These are the effects polyester has on your health – and why you should ditch it completely

What is polyester?

Polyester is the most popular of all synthetic materials on the market and is derived from coal, air, water and petroleum. Unfortunately, it can take a toll on your health and your sleep. The fibre is a type of plastic and, because it has a very synthetic feel, it is often produced with a blend of natural components like cotton to try and weaken this feeling. Most bedding sold around the world is cotton-polyester blends.

How is polyester produced?

Polyester is a petroleum by-product that is formed from a chemical reaction between an acid and alcohol. The reaction is known as polymerization. During this reaction molecules combine to form a larger molecule which normally takes place in a vacuum at a high temperature. The fibres are then stretched until they’re about five times their original size, with the resultant arrangement of molecules being very strong.

There are then a variety of methods that can be followed to manufacture it. The four basic forms are filament, staple, tow, and fibrefill.

Why shouldn’t polyester be in your bed?

Put bluntly, polyester is a toxic material that has a slew of toxic chemicals embedded in it which means there are a variety of health issues associated with it. It has been confirmed that it carries carcinogens and excessive exposure to the material can cause respiratory issues.

It also has proven to cause skin issues or make existing skin concerns worse. This means it has the ability to cause rashes, eczema and dermatitis. It is best that the material is avoided, especially if you have sensitive skin.

Polyester also doesn’t regulate your body temperature while you sleep as synthetic materials don’t breathe.  This means that the litre of body vapour everyone loses each night won’t be absorbed. This will leave your body feeling damp, making you hot in the summer and cold in the winter.

The material has also shown to have an effect on immune systems, especially those of children. Due to their immature immune and liver systems they are a lot more sensitive to chemicals than adults. When choosing bedding for children you want to avoid synthetic fibres and the less chemical processing and fewer finishes added to the material the better.

What do we recommend?

For the best night’s sleep, we recommend purchasing materials that are 100% natural and organic. This is because they are safer for your health, aren’t packed with toxic chemicals, are better for the environment and allow your body to breathe. Opting for high-quality cotton bed sheets is a great option.