Natural vs Synthetic Materials: What You Need to Know

Fabrics use two main types of materials, natural and synthetic. They vary in their origins, properties, environmental impact, and overall performance. Natural fibres come from organic materials, such as plants and animals. On the other hand, synthetic fibres are manufactured undergoing chemical processes. Each provides different values in various situations. In today’s world, environmental concerns grow that continue to shape the way in which people choose
to live, including the choice of the materials for clothing and everyday products. In this blog, we will explore the advantages of natural materials and what sets them apart over synthetic fibres.

Characteristics/Origins

Natural fibres come from plant or animal sources. Plant-based materials include cotton, linen, and jute; whereas animal-based materials include silk, wool, and leather. In particular, wool is obtained from the hair of sheep, alpacas, llamas, and other animals. They are then spun into threads and yarns. In addition, wool possesses unique moisture-wicking properties that help provide warmth, which are ideal in cold
conditions while remaining comfortable.

Synthetic fibres are primarily composed of man-made materials and produced in a laboratory using petrochemicals or petroleum byproducts. The common types are polyester, nylon, and acrylic. They are resistant to wrinkles and stains and less prone to shrinking. The feel of polyester can be smooth and slightly slippery, while nylon is resilient and slightly stiff. Acrylic can be soft and warm, while spandex is
highly elastic and stretchy.

In terms of their effects, natural fibres are more breathable and absorb moisture. They are also hypoallergenic, making them comfortable and skin-friendly. Thus, they tend to have a unique texture and aesthetic appeal. On the other hand, synthetic materials can trap moisture, humidity, and retain heat. They may also not be as breathable as natural fibres.

Common Types of Natural Fibres Cotton

Comes from the cotton plant’s seed pods.
Soft, breathable, and lightweight.
Absorbs moisture well and regulates body temperature
Hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin
Easy to dye and maintain.

Wool

Comes from the fleece of sheep (or goats for cashmere).
Naturally elastic, providing good shape or form retention.
Help regulate body temperature.
Flame-resistant. It tends to self-extinguish in fire due to its nitrogen and water content.

Linen

Comes from the flax plant
Cool and breathable
Strong and durable.
It is slightly stiff when new, but becomes softer with use or with each wash.
Highly absorbent and dries quickly.

Silk

Comes from the cocoons of domesticated silkworms.
Luxurious and smooth texture.
Lightweight and breathable.
Hypoallergenic

Bamboo

Comes from the bamboo plant.
Soft, lightweight, and breathable.
The bamboo viscose can be processed into fabric with a smooth feel similar to silk.

Leather

Made from animal hides and skins.
Strong, flexible, and extremely durable.
Good insulator in warm and cold climates.
Water-resistant but can also absorb water.
Ages gracefully and requires minimal maintenance.

Durability and Uses

Durability is another factor that differs between the two materials. While synthetic fibres often boast resistance to wear and tear, this comes at the cost of comfort, as many fabrics may not provide the same softness and gentleness. In comparison, high-quality natural fibres are highly absorbent. Wool, for example, is naturally elastic and can last a long time with proper care. Leather is also highly durable lasting for generations.

Moreover, natural fabrics are excellent for regulating temperature. They can give warmth during cool seasons and provide a layer of protection on warmer climates. Synthetic fabrics, however, are more resistant to water. They are ideal for practical applications in sportswear and outerwear.

Sustainability

Another significant consideration is the ecological impact of the two materials. Natural fibres are biodegradable and typically have a lower ecological footprint. As they are grown or harvested from plants and animals, they require minimal processing and do not require significant amounts of energy or harmful chemicals. Compared to synthetics, natural fabrics do not contribute to pollution during production or disposal processes.

Concerns over sustainability are also due to the growing interest in ethical sourcing. Many natural materials, especially organically grown, are produced through more ethical practices. It supports fair labour practices and farming techniques. Meanwhile, even though synthetics are cheap, they are often linked to less ethical production practices.

Synthetic materials also often come with environmental challenges. One of the major drawbacks of polyester, nylon, and acrylic fabrics is that they are non-biodegradable. They can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to toxic wastes in landfills and oceans as they tend to accumulate for a long time. This is in contrast to natural fibres that eventually break down in the long run. Lastly, recycling synthetic materials can be challenging due to their compositions. They may need manual separation or
use of chemicals to break them down, which is not always feasible.

Health Benefits

Natural materials can provide several functional and health advantages. Aside from the aesthetic appeal, one significant benefit is better air flow at home. The properties of natural fibres regulate body heat and reduce the risk of skin irritation or allergic reactions. Furthermore, they can effectively draw sweat away from the skin. This characteristic can be beneficial for individuals with skin hypersensitivity
or other skin conditions. Hence, these fibres enhance the tactile experience.

Incorporating organic materials into interiors can significantly improve indoor air quality. This is because they are less likely to emit harmful chemicals compared to synthetic alternatives. Additionally, organic materials like wool and felt help soften sound around them, creating a quiet and tranquil environment.

Incorporating natural products into interior design can significantly improve indoor air quality. This is because they are less likely to emit harmful chemicals compared to synthetic alternatives. Additionally, organic materials like wool and felt have sound-dampening properties making them ideal for creating quiet and peaceful spaces.

Conclusion

Different types of materials shape an experience. Natural materials in clothing and home can create more comfortable and beautiful sensations. It offers numerous advantages for the planet as they tend to more environmentally friendly and longevity. In addition, they can have longer lifespan with proper care. The wealth of benefits also goes beyond aesthetics. However, it is essential to remember that responsible and ethical production is key in promoting sustainability.

Overall, knowledge of the type of materials can help in making a wise decision. The right type can help enhance overall well-being and even support various environmental campaigns and causes. By opting for natural fibres in clothing, rugs, curtains, and other products, consumers can not only invest in their personal health but also support sustainable practices.