Natural vs synthetic fabric

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     I was asked to talk about why I say wear natural fabrics as much as one can. So with one word I'll explain it all: coconut. 😕 You look a little confused. Ok, let's go a bit more in-depth here.  
    Polyester is a plastic. Basically, one is wearing a bunch of water bottles. What are the properties of this plastic? Not really breathable (that's how water stays in it) yet porous enough that it can pick up a gas flavor if left in a shed with a gas can. It also has wicking properties; water rolls off of it.
    Now apply this to fabric. Real 100% polyester holds body heat, holds sweat or tries roll it away, picks up body odor and needs to be soaked in vinegar to get it out. Not too pleasant in all clothing.
    Enter in the hero: Coconut! The properties here are anti bacterial, anti fungal, odor control, and absorbent. So, they found a way to mix the liquid polyester with the coconut and extrude the fibers that will then be made into cloth. They also found a way to bind the coconut onto an already woven fabric (a coating on fabrics). Now the synthetic fabric can have odor control, can absorb and help keep one dry better, and it's more breathable. A much better fabric for some uses. I've seen it in sports clothing, sports bags, pricier backpacks and lunch bags, socks, reusable incontinence underwear and reusable period products. The tag will still just say 100% polyester, but the properties it advertises or what the garment does will tell the tale. Thus, this is why I suggest sticking to natural fiber fabrics as much as possible. They don't need the coconut enhancement. 
    I hope this explanation is helpful. Happy navigating your coconut allergy and shopping trips!
     

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