We spend about a third of our lives sleeping, which amounts to roughly 26 years in bed. 

That means our sleep environment matters; our mattresses, bedding, and pillows all have a lasting impact on our health.

What is the real truth behind popular bedding materials like polyester, and how does it affect our health? Let’s take a look.

Is Polyester Bad for You? Breaking it Down

The issue with polyester fabric and all synthetic fabrics is not the fabric itself but what is in it.

Chemicals like formaldehyde, BPA, and phthalates are introduced during the production and finishing of these materials. 

This is where we need to be wary. It is well-documented that additives, chemicals, and microplastics can harm both our health and the environment.

Research indicates that microplastics are building up in the brain and other parts of the body, raising serious health concerns.

Is polyester bad for you and your health? What chemicals are present?

  • Formaldehyde: It is an anti-wrinkle agent that is a known carcinogen and causes skin irritation.

  • Phthalates and BPA: These are endocrine disruptors that can interfere with your hormones and fertility.

  • Antimony: A production chemical that has been linked to respiratory and heart problems.

Is polyester toxic?

The chemicals used in polyester production can cause rashes and itching, especially in people with sensitive skin.

Additionally, off-gassing from new polyester items can cause headaches, lightheadedness, and respiratory issues. 

Another hazard is the shedding of microplastics, which are non-biodegradable and can trap heat. 

What about polyester clothing?

Polyester clothing side effects are similar to those of bedding, as the manufacturing process is the same.

Polyester Pillows Side Effects

Is polyester bad for you if it is present in pillows? Here are the potential side effects of sleeping on a polyester pillow:

  • Respiratory issues

  • Skin irritation

  • Headaches

  • Dizziness from chemical off-gassing

  • Lack of breathability, trapping heat and moisture

  • Possible increased dust mite and bacteria buildup

  • Laden with endocrine-disrupting chemicals

Polyester vs Natural Fibers

To optimize your health, focus on natural fibers. Look for pillows made from organic cotton, organic wool, organic kapok, down, natural latex, and buckwheat hulls. 

Natural fibers help you avoid unnecessary chemicals, creating a healthier sleeping environment.

Choosing the Right Pillow

Organic cotton: Soft, breathable, bacteria-resistant, grown without chemicals or pesticides.

Organic wool: Naturally resists dust mites, water, fire, and is an excellent fiber that regulates temperature.

Kapok: A soft fiber from the kapok tree that is a natural alternative to down filling.

Natural latex: Produced from the sap of rubber trees, offering firm support, biodegradable, and resistant to mites, mold, and mildew.

Buckwheat hulls: Offers good air circulation, adjustable loft, and breathable. Great for people with allergies.

Down: Luxurious and soft. Look for RDS certification, which indicates that the product was ethically sourced.

Certifications that Matter for Healthy Bedding and Pillows

  1. GOTS-Global Organic Textile Standard: Guarantees organic and ethical production practices.

  2. GOLS - Global Organic Latex Standard: It offers the same guarantees as GOTs, but it applies specifically to organic latex.

  3. Oeko-Tex Standard 100: Verifies the absence of harmful chemicals.

When Polyester is Fine and When to Avoid It

Polyester does have its place. It’s ideal for insulation in activewear, especially in the winter. 

These fabrics are engineered to wick sweat, can be waterproof, dry quickly, and provide strength and resistance to stretching, shrinking, and wear.

Polyester is ideal for work uniforms that require wrinkle resistance and durability to withstand frequent washings.

When to Avoid Polyester Fabrics

  • During hot, humid weather

  • High-friction areas 

  • If you have sensitive skin

  • The fabric doesn’t breathe, so sweat and odor build up 

  • You’re concerned about the environment

  • You want to avoid harmful chemicals

If you can’t avoid polyester altogether, like when buying outerwear or uniforms, opt for a blend like 80% cotton and 20% polyester to achieve the softness and breathability of cotton, along with the strength and durability of polyester.

As research continues to support the evidence for avoiding chemicals in bedding due to health concerns, look for companies that prioritize chemical-free production, like Yana Sleep. 

Yana’s full-body pillow, side sleeper pillow, and the weighted heart-shaped pillow are all Oeko-Tex certified, so you can rest easy knowing their products are free from harmful chemicals.

The Yana eucalyptus pillow cover is crafted from premium Tencel Lyocell, sourced from eucalyptus trees. This fabric offers superior cooling abilities for a cool touch throughout the night. Soft like fine silk, yet durable and eco-friendly, available in several designer colors.

Yana Sleep Products adheres to the highest standards of environmental protection, delivering durable products that don’t compromise your health. We are a brand you can trust.

Explore our premium sleep products for a blissful night’s rest!