Polyester vs cotton work shirts

Both fabrics work. The right one depends on the job, the climate and what you want printed.

Polyester

Dries quickly, resists shrinking and holds colour through many washes. It suits wet, hot or sweaty work and full-print designs, because sublimation dyes the fibre itself. See sublimation vs screen print.

Cotton

Soft, familiar and comfortable for many people. It absorbs moisture and takes longer to dry, and it can shrink. Cotton is popular for classic logo tees and polos.

Which should you choose

For outdoor and wet trades, many crews choose polyester. For office staff or a classic look, cotton polos are common. Many businesses use both. We offer a full-print polyester line and a classic logo line.

Want a design for your crew? Send your logo and crew size for a free design within 24 hours.

Common questions

Is polyester hotter than cotton?

Not always. A lightweight wicking polyester can feel drier in sweat, while thick fabrics of either type feel warm.

Does polyester shrink?

Polyester generally shrinks less than cotton.

Can you sublimate on cotton?

Sublimation works on polyester. Cotton uses other print methods.

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