Microfibre and polycotton bedding fabrics: blends and properties
Microfibre and polycotton both contain polyester. They cost less than all-cotton bedding fabrics, crease less and are easy to care for. They are used in budget retail, student housing, hostels and bedding that is changed often.
Microfibre
Microfibre bedding fabric is 100% polyester. The filaments are very fine, so the fabric is soft and smooth. The surface is often brushed, giving a matte, slightly velvety peach-skin feel. Solid and printed versions are both common.
Polycotton
Polycotton is woven from a blend of polyester and cotton yarn, and the ratio decides how it behaves. Ratios are written in different orders, so check in the quote which fibre is the majority.
| Blend | Behaviour |
|---|---|
| 65% polyester, 35% cotton | Low crease, fast drying, handles industrial laundry; more synthetic feel |
| 50% polyester, 50% cotton | A balance between easy care and a cotton feel |
| Cotton-rich (CVC, e.g. 60% cotton) | Closer to cotton in feel and absorbency; creases more |
Advantages
- Lower cost than all-cotton fabric
- Low crease, often no ironing needed
- Less shrinkage, quick drying
- Holds colour well over time
Limitations
- Polyester absorbs less moisture than cotton, so it can feel warmer in hot weather.
- Blends can pill in areas of friction.
- Static can build up in dry air.
- The hand feels less natural than 100% cotton.
When to choose them
They make sense where price leads, where bedding is washed often and must dry fast, and where you want to cut ironing. For summer bedding with a cool feel, cotton is the better fit.
When ordering, ask for the blend ratio, weight, width and whether the surface is brushed.