What is Polycotton?

Polycotton, short for "polyester-cotton," is a blend of two different fibres: polyester and cotton. This blend combines the characteristics of both fibres, resulting in a fabric that is widely used in a variety of applications.


Common Characteristics Include

Durability: Polycotton is known for its durability and resistance to wear and tear. The polyester component adds strength to the fabric.

Wrinkle Resistance: The polyester content in polycotton makes it less prone to wrinkling compared to 100% cotton fabrics, which can be advantageous for clothing and linens.

Breathability: While not as breathable as pure cotton, polycotton retains some level of breathability, allowing air circulation and moisture-wicking.

Comfort: The cotton component contributes to the fabric's softness, making it comfortable to wear.

Quick Drying: Polycotton fabrics tend to dry relatively quickly, thanks to the moisture-wicking properties of both polyester and cotton.

Easy Care: Polycotton is easy to care for and can often be machine-washed and tumble-dried without much fuss.


Popular Uses


Clothing: Polycotton is frequently used to make a variety of clothing items, including shirts, blouses, dresses, pants, skirts, and uniforms. Its blend of comfort, durability, and wrinkle resistance makes it a popular choice for everyday wear.

Bedding: Bedsheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, and mattress covers made from polycotton are comfortable, easy to care for, and durable.

Workwear: Many work uniforms for different professions, such as industrial workers, healthcare professionals, and service personnel, are made from polycotton due to its ability to withstand the demands of the workplace.

Home Textiles: Polycotton is used for curtains, drapes, tablecloths, and upholstery fabrics, offering a combination of style and resilience to daily use.

Outdoor Gear: Some outdoor clothing items, such as windbreakers, hiking pants, and vests, are crafted from polycotton fabric, providing a balance between comfort and functionality for outdoor activities.

Tents and Camping Gear: Polycotton fabrics are used in the production of tents and camping gear because of their breathability, durability, and resistance to condensation.

Linings and Interlinings: Polycotton is used as a lining material in jackets, coats, and suits to provide extra warmth and structure.

Sofas and Couches: Polycotton upholstery is frequently used to cover the cushions and frames of sofas and couches. Its durability ensures that the furniture remains in good condition over time, and its softness adds to seating comfort.

Crafts: It is a suitable choice for various craft projects, such as sewing tote bags, making decorative items, and creating DIY projects due to its easy handling and availability in various colours and patterns.

Soft Toys: Polycotton is a popular choice for making soft and cuddly stuffed animals, plush toys, and dolls. The fabric's softness and durability make it comfortable for children to cuddle with, and the toys can withstand the wear and tear of play.

Medical and Healthcare Apparel: Polycotton is used for medical scrubs, lab coats, and other healthcare-related apparel because it is comfortable, easy to clean, and withstands frequent washing.

Uniforms: School uniforms, sports team uniforms, and uniforms for various organizations often incorporate polycotton fabric for its durability and uniform appearance.

Hospitality Industry: Polycotton is used in the hospitality industry for making tablecloths, napkins, and aprons due to its ability to withstand frequent use and laundering.

School and Institutional Use: Polycotton is a popular choice for school uniforms, as well as uniforms for institutions like the military and police.

Interior Decor: It is used for creating cushions, throw pillows, and upholstery for furniture, blending style and resilience.


Polycotton fabric remains a popular choice today for a variety of applications, including clothing, bedding, workwear, and home textiles. Its ability to offer a balance between the comfort of cotton and the durability of polyester has contributed to its enduring appeal.