TVF Resource Center

Characteristics of Polyester

Characteristics of Polyester

The Good Physical Characteristics of Polyester

  • Polyester fabric is strong and resilient.
  • Polyester is durable, abrasion-resistant, crease-resistant, wrinkle-resistant, and has dimensional stability. Nylon has some of these same qualities. 
  • Polyester dries quickly due to natural hydrophobic properties (retaining only 0.4% moisture). This also provides polyester with some natural water repellent characteristics.
  • Another great physical characteristic of polyester is its UV resistance.
  • Polyester is also lower in price than nylon, making it a versatile and more affordable option for many applications.

Note: Wicking properties can be created through special finishing techniques.

The Bad Physical Characteristics of Polyester

  • Polyester may create more static electricity which can also attract dirt and lint.
  • Oleophilic – absorbs oil and grease.
  • Polyester is not as strong or abrasion-resistant as nylon.
  • Polyester requires a higher heat and more pressure to dye than nylon. Few domestic finishers in the US have the equipment to dye domestic polyester.