What is the Difference between Polyester and Rayon?

When it comes to daily wear fabrics, polyester and rayon are spoken of in the same sentence. Due to the crisp appearance, clean texture, a lot of people either confuse the two fabrics or think they are interchangeable with one another. Irrespective of how similar they may feel, there exist significant differences between the two. Let us identify how polyester and rayon differ in their composition, sources, purpose, and adaptability to different weather. 

People who prefer sustainability and an authentic luxury experience would usually go for rayon, whereas people whose main priority is saving money, while also excluding the feel of rayon, can opt for polyester, which can provide the appearance of expensive taste without causing a lot of problems to their budget. 

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Polyester Vs Rayon

Key Features 

Source

• Polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum-based polymers. It was developed in the 20th century and is now one of the most widely used man-made textiles.
• Rayon, on the other hand, is a semi-synthetic fabric made from natural cellulose, but it undergoes heavy chemical processing. It is often considered a more breathable and softer alternative to fully synthetic fabrics.

Maintenance

• Polyester can be easily washed with hands or at home with no special precautions. It is quite easy to maintain and doesn’t require much aftercare, either in the form of dry-cleaning or any such parameters. 
• Rayon is more delicate when compared to polyester and requires more precautions and safety measures in its cleaning. It should not be washed with harsh detergents or too much of force as it is vulnerable to wear and tear.

Price 

• Polyester is inexpensive, mass-produced, and widely available, making it a common choice for budget clothing, home textiles, and activewear.
• Rayon is moderately priced—cheaper than natural fabrics like silk but often more expensive than polyester due to its manufacturing process.

Usage 

• Polyester is used in sportswear, outerwear, home furnishings, and everyday clothing because of its durability and resistance to environmental elements.
• Rayon is popular in dresses, blouses, linings, and summer clothing due to its soft, drapey feel and breathable texture.

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