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How to distinguish between nylon and polyester fabrics?

2026-01-14

       The difference between nylon and polyester. Both nylon and polyester are very common fabrics in our daily lives, but no one can clearly explain the difference between them. So, what exactly is the difference between these two fabrics? And how should we choose between them for different occasions and purposes in life? Today, let me explain a bit for you.
        The difference between nylon and polyester. First, let me teach you how to distinguish between these two fabrics
        1. Sensory differences:
        Based on the glossiness of the fabric, the fabric with a brighter color and a smoother feel is nylon; the fabric with a darker appearance compared to nylon and a rougher feel is polyester;
        2. Difference in combustion (the simplest method):
            Burning of Nylon Fabric: When nylon is close to a flame, it quickly curls and burns into a white, gel-like substance, emitting white smoke and a celery-like odor. It also bubbles. Additionally, nylon does not produce a flame when burning. Once removed from the flame, it becomes difficult to continue burning. After burning, a light brown melted substance can be seen, which is not easily crumbled by hand.
    Burning of Polyester Fabric: Polyester is relatively easy to ignite. When close to a flame, it will immediately curl up. During combustion, it will melt while emitting black smoke. The flame is yellow and emits a fragrant odor. After burning, a dark brown hard mass will be left, which can be crumbled with a finger.
        3. Scratch with fingernail
        Scratch the fabric with your fingernail. If the scratch marks are not obvious, it is nylon; if there are obvious marks, it is polyester. (Compared to the first method, the first method is still more intuitive and straightforward)
        Next, let's examine the differences between nylon and polyester from a functional perspective:
        Nylon Fabric, due to its good extensibility and strong breathability, is mostly used as an inner lining in clothing and bags. Moreover, this fabric is also used to make the upper part of certain shoe styles, such as running shoes and tennis shoes. Nylon Fabric can enhance the breathability of shoes, making the wearer more comfortable.  
        Polyester Fabric is widely used in the manufacture of clothing and industrial products. It is a common chemical fiber clothing fabric in our daily life, and its greatest advantage is that it is not prone to deformation and wrinkling. Coupled with its characteristics of being sturdy and durable, good elasticity, insulation, and easy cleaning, it is very suitable for making outerwear.
        What are the differences in performance between nylon and polyester? Simply put, nylon fabric products excel in wear resistance, stress resistance, color fastness, and glossiness compared to Polyester Fabric products. However, nylon has a harder feel and is more expensive than polyester.
        The difference between nylon and polyester. Most of the clothing on the market nowadays is primarily made of polyester and Nylon Fabrics. Therefore, we need to keep our eyes open and learn to discern the differences between nylon and polyester, so that we can purchase high-quality products.