Choosing a new quilt for your bed can sometimes seem a little daunting. There are so many options on the market, and you want to make sure that you choose one that will keep you comfortable as you sleep. Plus, you may also want it to have eco-credentials and be as environmentally friendly as possible.
With that in mind, it’s logical to assume that a wool quilt is a better option than one made of polyester. But just in case you need a little more persuading, here’s the lowdown on the difference between polyester and wool quilts.
What is Polyester?
We all know what wool is – it’s a sheep’s natural coat but what exactly is polyester? Polyester is the universal name given to any textile or fabric that’s made from polyester fibres or yarns that are knitted or woven into a fabric. The fibres are made from a thermoplastic that is developed from a chemical reaction between petroleum, water, and air.
Does Polyester Work Well for Bedding?
One of the big advantages of polyester bedding is that it is relatively lightweight which is a bonus if you prefer a light covering as you sleep. However, it does have some downsides.
· Polyester is not a breathable fabric – this means that it’s likely to trap moisture and prevent it from escaping into the air. This can lead to an increase in body temperature as you sleep and you may feel damp, clammy, and uncomfortable. On the other hand, as a natural fibre, wool helps to regulate your body temperature and can absorb up to 30% of its own weight in moisture that will keep you cool and comfortable as you sleep.
· Polyester may cause allergic reactions – this may sound strange, but due to its lack of breathability, polyester creates the perfect environment for dust mites and allergens to thrive. Plus, as it’s made from petroleum, it may cause skin irritations. In contrast, wool is naturally hypoallergenic, so it won’t cause skin or breathing problems and, as it releases any absorbed moisture into the air, it deters those dreaded dust mites.
· Polyester can be hard to recycle. Although many companies are now finding ways to recycle polyester and create new fabrics with recycled polyester, some polyesters are still extremely hard to recycle and often end up in landfill. This leads us to our next point – polyester is a non-biodegradable fabric and can take anything from 20 to 200 years to decompose. As you can imagine, as an entirely natural product, wool is both biodegradable and sustainable. As long as we have sheep, we will have wool and if the wool does end up in landfill it will degrade naturally without polluting the environment.
· In some cases, polyester is flammable; however, polyester bedding is likely to be treated with chemicals to make it fireproof. Wool is naturally fire-retardant so is a much safer and healthier choice for your bed.
The Bottom Line
While polyester may be a popular choice for many, it isn’t necessarily the best option if you value your health and the environment.
