Poly cotton is a versatile blend of synthetic polyester and natural cotton fibers that is widely used in a wide range of applications.
It can be a good option for upholstery, but like every fabric blend, it has some advantages and limitations, which can also vary depending on the particular composition, applied treatments, fabric construction, and fiber quality.
Poly Cotton as an Upholstery Option
Poly cotton (also referred to as polycotton or poly-cotton) is a fabric composed of a blend of synthetic polyester and natural cotton fibers, which are intertwined to produce a material that incorporates the best qualities of both components.
This fusion of fibers results in a versatile fabric that is widely used in various applications, ranging from clothing and bed sheets to upholstery.
During the production process, polyester and cotton fibers are blended together to form a single yarn, and the ratio of used fibers may change and affect specific fabric properties.
In addition to the specific composition, fiber or yarn quality, applied finishes, and fabric construction all have a role in determining fabric features.
When it comes to the stretchability of poly cotton fabric, for example, employed fiber is not as important as fabric construction.
Most upholstery fabrics are woven and do not stretch excessively, like knitted materials. Fabric thickness is also affected by fabric construction, which is an important factor to consider when selecting upholstery material.
So, if you are not purchasing finished furniture, you must additionally assess if the poly cotton fabric construction is appropriate for upholstery. Chenille, jacquard, chevron, and canvas, for example, can be manufactured from a poly cotton blend and are commonly used for upholstery.
However, the polyester-cotton blend has some general characteristics in common that could make it a good choice for upholstery.
As a reasonable upholstery material, poly cotton qualities fall halfway between synthetic and natural fabrics. Poly cotton furniture items can resist frequent wear and tear if the fabric construction is suitable for upholstery.
Furthermore, poly cotton is a popular upholstery fabric that comes in a variety of colors, patterns, and textures.
Poly Cotton Upholstery Advantages
There are a number of positive aspects associated with the use of poly cotton in upholstery.
Durability
The durability of poly cotton upholstery is one of its benefits.
It is more durable than 100% cotton because the blend of synthetic polyester and natural cotton fibers blends the strength and resilience of polyester with the softness and comfort of cotton. Poly cotton upholstery also fades less than 100% cotton upholstery. However, generally speaking, it isn’t more durable than 100% polyester.
Ease of Maintenance
Another benefit of poly cotton upholstery is its simplicity of care. It does not absorb liquids as quickly as 100% cotton upholstery, which can also shrink or change shape when wet. Furthermore, it dries faster. Poly cotton is easy to care for, requiring only standard cleaning methods to keep it looking good.
Because poly cotton has wrinkle-resistant properties, it is less likely to have finishes that improve wrinkle resistance, as many entirely natural fabrics do. These substances can be harmful at times.
Although, wrinkles can also be an indication of poorly upholstered or filled furniture.
Affordability
As a blend of polyester and cotton, poly cotton is often more affordable than 100% cotton fabrics or high-end synthetic materials. Blends are less expensive because obtaining a balance between the economy and good physical characteristics is easier.
Versatility
Finally, poly cotton is a highly versatile and frequently used material, and a variety of fabrics can be made from poly cotton blends. It is available in a variety range of colors, textures, and patterns and may easily be adapted to individual design preferences.
Poly Cotton Upholstery Disadvantages
Comfort
When compared to 100% natural materials like cotton or linen, poly cotton typically has inferior breathability and softness. However it is more comfortable and breathable than 100% polyester or other synthetic textiles.
Pilling
Poly cotton fabric can be prone to pilling over time. Pilling happens when cloth fibers rub together and produce tiny balls on the surface. However, pilling can occur in a variety of other materials and is affected by characteristics such as fiber length, fabric, and yarn composition.
Sustainability Issues
Poly cotton upholstery fabric is not the most environmentally friendly fabric. It is not completely biodegradable. Polyester is made from nonrenewable resources like petroleum. Non-organic cotton farming is also harmful to the environment because pesticides and an excessive amount of water are used. As a result, when compared to other materials, poly cotton is not the best solution for the environment.
Flammability
A poly cotton blend that has not been treated additionally is regarded to be relatively flammable.
Poly Cotton vs. Other Upholstery Materials
When comparing poly cotton to other upholstery materials, you can assess whether it is a good fit for your needs.
Natural upholstery textiles, such as cotton and linen, are generally more comfortable and environmentally responsible solutions. However, when exposed to direct sunlight, these fabrics might fade and stains are more difficult to remove.
Below is a comparison of some of the basic attributes of poly cotton blend and other popular upholstery materials, if we disregard factors like the fabric’s construction, fiber quality and the option of applying extra treatments for improved fabric performance.
| Material | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Poly Cotton | Durable, affordable, low-maintenance, good wrinkle recovery, less likely to fade | Not eco-friendly, and breathable as 100% natural materials |
| Cotton | Soft, comfortable, biodegradable | Harder to clean stains. It can fade in direct sunlight and wrinkles |
| Linen | Breathable, comfortable, more durable than cotton, biodegradable | Harder to clean stains. It can fade in direct sunlight and wrinkles, more expensive |
| Polyester | Durable, easy to clean, good wrinkle recovery, less likely to fade | Not eco-friendly, and it is not as comfortable as natural materials, or poly cotton |
Selecting Poly Cotton for Upholstery –Basic Tips
To begin with, as previously stated, fabric composition is not the only factor to consider.
Some variables are beyond your control. For instance, fiber or yarn quality.
However, you must select a poly cotton blend fabric that is suited for upholstery (for example, chenille, jacquard, chevron, or canvas).
Also, always double-check the textiles’ declared special properties, since applied finishes (which can impart certain qualities like softness, water resistance, fire retardancy, or anti-static properties) and fabric construction can have a substantial impact on exact fabric qualities.
Consider the fabric thickness, as too thin or too thick is not the best solution especially if you perform your own upholstering. In this scenario, the quantity of stretch is also vital, because too much stretch or no stretch at all is not the greatest option.
When it comes to poly cotton stretchability, the employed fiber is not as important as the fabric construction, so you should test or inquire about this issue.
Because poly cotton comes in a range of patterns, evaluate whether matching patterns will be problematic.
Consider the fabric’s blend ratios as well when choosing poly cotton upholstery fabric. Larger percentages of cotton or polyester may bring the fabric closer to the qualities of that fiber.