Natural vs Synthetic Fibres: What Every Textile Buyer Should Know
In the global textile trade, one of the most important decisions any buyer, manufacturer, or designer must make is choosing between natural and synthetic fibres. These materials serve as the foundation of all textiles—from basic garments to high-performance technical fabrics—and the choice has far-reaching implications for cost, sustainability, durability, and end-user satisfaction. As the industry evolves, understanding the core differences between these two fibre types is more than academic—it’s a competitive advantage. In this article, we break down the defining characteristics, applications, and market trends shaping the use of natural and synthetic fibres today. What Are Natural and Synthetic Fibres? At a fundamental level, textile fibres fall into two categories: Natural fibres are obtained from plants, animals, or minerals. Common examples include cotton, wool, silk, flax (linen), jute, and hemp. Synthetic fibres are human-made, usually derived from petrochemicals. E...