Cotton vs Polyester: Which Fabric Fits Your Custom T-Shirt Needs?
When designing the perfect custom T-shirt, the artwork is important — but the fabric you choose is just as crucial. Whether you're outfitting a team, promoting your business, or launching your own fashion line, the decision between cotton and polyester can make all the difference in comfort, durability, and overall look.
At Print Lab, we help businesses and individuals bring their branding to life with premium personalised clothing. Here’s a simple breakdown of the pros and cons of these two popular fabrics to help you choose the right one.
Cotton: Soft, Natural, and Everyday Friendly
Cotton is the classic choice for comfort. From the moment you put it on, it offers a soft, breathable feel that’s ideal for day-long wear.
Why go for cotton?
- Comfortable & Skin-Friendly
- Breathable & Natural
- Perfect for Printing
- Eco-Conscious Option
Cotton is a great match for branded event clothing, workwear, casualwear, or startup fashion ranges. If comfort and softness are top of your list, cotton is a solid pick.
Polyester: Built for Performance and Longevity
Polyester is your go-to if durability and performance matter most. It’s a top choice for sportswear, work uniforms, and anything that needs to keep its shape under pressure.
Why choose polyester?
- Tough & Fade-Resistant
- Quick-Drying & Moisture-Wicking
- Flexible & Lightweight
- Low-Maintenance
Polyester clothing is perfect for sports teams, active employees, outdoor staff, and high-usage uniforms. If you need something hard-wearing and low-fuss, polyester delivers.
So, Which One’s Right for You?
It all comes down to your needs:
- Looking for softness and breathability? Go with cotton.
- Need something long-lasting and durable? Polyester’s your best bet.
- After great value and versatility? Cotton is often more affordable.
Whatever fabric you go for, Print Lab ensures your design is professionally applied with industry-leading printing and embroidery techniques. From breathable cotton tees to high-performance polyester shirts, we’ll help you create a garment that looks and feels exceptional. Certain Polyester t-shirts are breathable and have quick drying properties too! This blog post is a general guide.
Need help choosing the right T-shirt for your brand or event?
Call us today on 023 9257 1900 or explore our full range of customisable garments.
