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The oldest cultivated plant in the world celebrated its breakthrough in the textile industry in the 19th century. Even today, it is impossible to imagine the textile industry without it. The cotton plant owes its name to the fact that its seeds can spread over a huge distance, just like a tree. But what makes cotton so popular?

Unlike synthetic fibres, cotton can absorb a lot of moisture and is even more tear-resistant when wet than when dry. It is also comfortable to wear because it does not scratch the skin. It can withstand frequent washing and ironing without hesitation. In addition, many allergy sufferers swear by cotton fashion because it has a very low allergy potential.

Cotton is now grown in huge quantities, especially in tropical and subtropical regions. If you want to rely on high-quality goods and support sustainable agriculture without genetic engineering, go for organic cotton.

Polyester (composed of the terms polymer and ester) is a term used in the textile industry for a synthetic textile fibre. The motive for the development of polyester in the 1930s was the desire for an alternative to silk. US researchers wanted to make the western market less dependent on silk supplies from Japan. A short time later, the fabric also became heat-resistant and has been an integral part of fashion ever since.

Polyester has positive properties, especially when it comes to bedding. The fabric is easy to wash and dries quickly. The hygiene aspect is not neglected with polyester either: the fine fibres allow perspiration to evaporate quickly and they do not provide a breeding ground for mites. Polycotton, however, is the most recommendable. The mixture of cotton and polyester combines the positive properties of both materials. Polycotton is therefore both breathable and particularly pleasant on the skin.

We also often encounter polyester in the form of microfibre. The material keeps its shape, is pleasant on the skin, more absorbent than cotton and feels particularly warm and soft. To benefit from the positive properties for as long as possible, microfibre textiles should be washed on a gentle cycle with liquid detergent.

Althoughsoftshell is not a fabric in its own right, it has also earned a place in our list due to its popularity. Softshell consists of several layers of fabric and is mainly used for jackets, trousers and gloves. The outer layer is always made of a particularly abrasion-resistant and durable material. The material underneath varies in thickness and serves as a warming lining. In addition, the lower layers transport moisture to the outside instead of absorbing it themselves and cooling the body down. This is made possible, for example, by synthetic fibres such as polyester.

Because of its breathable and insulating properties, softshell textiles are mostly found in the outdoor sector. Mountaineers, runners, skiers but also people who have to work outside in all weathers swear by these practical clothes.