How to Differentiate Cotton and Polyester Shirts (Before You Customize & Print)

When choosing a shirt for custom shirt printing, many people focus on design and color — but the fabric choice is just as important. The two most common materials in the market are cotton shirts and polyester shirts. Although they may look similar at first glance, they perform very differently.

This guide will help you easily differentiate cotton and polyester shirts, so you can choose the best option for comfort, durability, and printing quality.

1. Fabric Feel: Soft vs Smooth

One of the easiest ways to tell the difference is by touch.

• Cotton shirts feel soft, natural, and breathable

• Cotton T-shirts for women often feel gentle on the skin and less irritating

• Cotton shirts for men usually have a slightly heavier, premium feel

• Polyester shirts feel smooth, slightly plastic-like, and lighter

If comfort is your top priority, especially for daily wear or long hours, cotton T-shirts are usually the better choice.

2. Breathability & Heat Comfort

In Malaysia’s hot and humid weather, fabric breathability matters a lot.

Cotton T Shirts

• Absorb sweat well

• Allow air to circulate

• Feel cooler during long wear

• Ideal for casual wear, uniforms, and lifestyle brands

Polyester Shirts

• Do not absorb sweat (they trap it)
• Dry faster but may feel warm
• More suitable for sports or activewear

CROSSRUNNER DRYtec Ultra Lightweight Quick Dry Polo T-Shirt CRP8000

For everyday customize shirt printing, cotton is usually preferred for comfort.

3. Printing Quality & Design Result

Cotton Shirts for Printing

• Ink absorbs well into the fabric
• Colors appear richer and more natural
• Best for:
  • Logo printing
  • Text designs
  • Vintage or matte finishes

Polyester Shirts for Printing

• Ink sits on the surface
• Colors may appear shinier
• Best for:
  • Sublimation printing
  • Sports jerseys
  • Bright, full-color designs

4. Durability & Maintenance

Both fabrics are durable, but they age differently.

• Can shrink slightly if washed in hot water
• Wrinkle more easily
• Become softer over time

• Resistant to wrinkles
• Maintain shape well
• Less likely to shrink

5. How to Tell by Looking at the Label

• 100% Cotton → Natural fiber, breathable, soft
• 100% Polyester → Synthetic fiber, lightweight, quick-dry
• Cotton Blend (e.g. 60% cotton / 40% polyester) → Balanced comfort and durability
  
  NORTH HARBOUR Round Neck Cotton T-Shirt NHR1100

6. Which Should You Choose for Custom Shirt Printing?

• For corporate uniforms, cotton shirts are recommended as they look professional, feel comfortable, and are suitable for long working hours.

• For lifestyle brands, cotton T-shirts are a popular choice because they offer a soft feel and a premium, everyday-wear look.

• For cotton T shirts for women, cotton or cotton-blend fabrics work best as they provide comfort while maintaining shape after washing.

• For cotton shirts for men, 100% cotton or heavy cotton fabrics are ideal for a more structured and durable fit.

• For sports and event shirts, polyester is more suitable due to its lightweight, quick-dry, and easy-care properties.

• For budget bulk orders, cotton-blend fabrics are a practical option as they balance cost, comfort, and durability.