Wool vs. Synthetics

Looking for the perfect bedding fill can feel a little daunting. The wool vs. synthetic bedding debate continues and buyers are just as confused as ever when it comes to choosing between the two. But what is polyester bedding, and is it good for your sleep? We’ll answer questions like "is polyester breathable?" and "is polyester flammable?" to help you make the healthiest choice for you and the environment.
 

Polyester vs. wool: What is polyester?

Polyester is a universal name for any fabric or textile made using polyester yarns or fibres. It is knitted or woven to form silk-like fabrics that are used in clothing, home furnishings and other industrial purposes.
 

What is polyester made of?

So what is polyester made of? Essentially, polyester, or “polyethylene terephthalate”, is a type of plastic (a thermoplastic) which can be melted and reformed. The fabric is developed from a chemical reaction that involves petroleum, air and water.
 

Is polyester a good material for bedding?

As one of the strongest fabrics available, polyester is widely used across the planet to create multiple products, including polyester bedding. But is polyester a good material for bedding? We’re taking a look at wool vs. synthetic bedding to provide you with the best possible sleep environment.
 

Does polyester bedding make you sweat?

It’s no secret that overheating in bed can cause sleepless nights – and your synthetic bedding might not be helping. So does polyester bedding make you sweat? And is polyester breathable?
Polyester isn’t known as a breathable fabric. Typically, these artificial fabrics can trap moisture and prevent it from escaping, which can increase your body temperature and cause night sweats. You’re left feeling uncomfortable and clammy, which affects your ability to sleep.
Unlike wool, polyester does nothing to help regulate your body temperature. Wool is an amazing natural fibre that can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture – meaning that your wool bedding will draw moisture away from your skin at night, keeping you cool and comfortable while you sleep.
 

Is polyester hypoallergenic?

Are you experiencing endless nights of tossing and turning with a blocked nose? Your allergies might be getting in the way of a good night’s sleep. But is polyester hypoallergenic?
Due to the number of chemicals that are found within synthetic bedding, polyester has the potential to irritate the skin and cause allergic reactions. What’s more, without breathability, polyester bedding creates the perfect environment for dust mites and allergens to thrive in.
If you’re looking for a hypoallergenic alternative, natural fabrics and fibres are your best bet. At Woolroom, we have the Allergy UK Seal of Approval – meaning our products are ideal for alleviating your night-time allergies. The lack of humidity and moisture deters the allergens and provides a cleaner sleep environment.
Find out more about how to combat allergies at night.
 

Is polyester recyclable?

Many items made with polyester are made from a blend of the fibre and other materials, which makes them harder to recycle – and in some cases, impossible. However, businesses are now starting to catch on and are using recycled polyester (rPET) in their clothing – which is typically made from recycled plastic bottles. Although, there are many questions around the sustainability of this material.
 

Is polyester biodegradable?

Polyester is a non-biodegradable fabric and can take anything from 20-200 years to fully decompose, which makes it inherently bad for the planet.
Wool, on the other hand, is a completely biodegradable and sustainable source that can be shorn from sheep on an annual basis. It is also biodegradable in nitrogen rich soils and compost, so you can sleep easy knowing that your wool bedding won’t pollute the environment as it comes to the end of its natural life.
 

Is polyester flammable?

A common question around wool vs. synthetic bedding is “is polyester flammable?”. But as it is typically blended with other fabrics, you can’t be sure how the material will react to an open flame – and it’s not worth the risk. Most synthetics will ignite easily, burn fiercely and then melt at an alarming rate. What’s more, many materials use a chemical treatment to make them fireproof, but not wool. Instead, the natural fibre contains natural fire-retardant properties.
Check out our wool vs. synthetic bedding fire test to see it for yourself.
 

Is polyester or cotton better for bedding sheets?

Polyester is a common feature of most households, but it’s not always the best option. While it may come with a lower price tag, polyester bedding can cause overheating and allergy flare ups, and it’s not particularly environmentally friendly.
100% cotton is breathable and temperature regulating, helping you stay warm in winter and cool in summer. Better yet, our organic cotton bed linen is designed to maximise breathability and naturally enhance the benefits of our wool bedding.

Sleep makes us healthy, full of vitality and improves our wellbeing. It’s one of life’s greatest gifts. That’s why we use natural, British wool fibres over polyester bedding fills. It’s natural, breathable, hypoallergenic and breathable – everything you want from your sleep environment. That’s the Woolroom difference.

Discover your perfect sleep sanctuary with wool bedding. Order online today.