Nylon vs Polyester

Nylon and polyester are the two workhorse synthetic fibers, and tags often list one or the other. Nylon is a polyamide first made at DuPont in 1935. Polyester in clothing is nearly always polyethylene terephthalate, the same plastic used in many drink bottles, and it is common in clothing and home furnishings.

In use they behave differently. Nylon is tough, elastic and resistant to wear, but it absorbs some moisture. Polyester is hydrophobic, which helps it resist stains and wrinkles but can feel less breathable. Which is better depends on the job, so match the fiber to how the fabric will be used.

Nylon vs Polyester side by side

Last verified October 2026. Typical values; individual animals, products and local prices vary.

Which one fits you

Nylon

• You need maximum abrasion resistance, such as a pack, rope or heavy-traffic carpet.
• The item must stay elastic and tough, like hosiery or webbing.
• You can accept that nylon absorbs some moisture and can stain.
• You are choosing carpet for a busy hallway where wear matters more than stains.

Polyester

• You want fabric that resists stains, water and wrinkles.
• Shrinking in the wash is a worry for you.
• You are buying clothing or furnishings that must hold their shape.
• You prefer a fiber that can be made from recycled PET bottles.

How this works

This page compares the two fibers on chemistry, moisture handling, toughness, heat range and use, drawing on encyclopedia entries for each. The quiz asks five questions about how the item will be used, washed and cared for, and each answer carries a short explanation.

Real fabrics vary with yarn size, weave, finish and blends, so the table shows typical behavior rather than guarantees. Many garments blend the two. Check the label and the manufacturer's care guidance for the specific item before you decide on one or the other.

Where these numbers come from

The figures and defaults on this page are based on:

• Wikipedia: Nylon, Nylon discovery, melting range, hygroscopic nature and abrasion resistance (checked October 2026)
• Wikipedia: Polyester, Polyester PET, hydrophobic behavior, melting range and microfiber shedding (checked October 2026)
• Britannica: Nylon, Nylon wear, heat and chemical resistance and typical uses (checked October 2026)
• Wikipedia: Carpet, Nylon and polyester carpet staining and matting behavior (checked October 2026)

General fabric guide. Blends and finishes change real-world performance.