When you look at polyester vs nylon vs spandex, you’ll notice each fabric brings something unique to the table. Polyester leads the global market with a 35.5% share, making it a top choice for comfort and easy care.
Nylon gives you a smooth feel and solid durability, while spandex stands out for stretch and flexibility. If you want pajamas that feel soft yet last, Friendtex offers premium polyester and nylon options designed for both comfort and performance.
Choosing the right fabric means thinking about how much stretch, breathability, and comfort matter most to you.
Key Takeaways
Polyester offers lightweight comfort, durability, and easy care, making it ideal for everyday wear and pajamas that dry quickly and resist wrinkles.
Nylon provides a smooth, strong fabric with excellent abrasion resistance and moisture-wicking, perfect for activewear and luxurious sleepwear.
Spandex delivers unmatched stretch and flexibility, best used in blends with polyester or nylon to keep clothes fitting well and moving with you.
Blends like polyester spandex and nylon spandex combine durability, stretch, and moisture management, creating comfortable, long-lasting performance fabrics.
Proper care, such as gentle washing in cold water and air drying, helps maintain fabric quality and reduces environmental impact while extending garment life.
Comparison Table
Polyester vs Nylon vs Spandex
When you compare polyester vs nylon vs spandex, you’ll see each fabric brings something special to the table. If you want pajamas that feel soft, last long, and are easy to care for, you’ll notice that polyester and nylon both stand out.
Spandex, on the other hand, is all about stretch and flexibility. Let’s break down how these performance fabrics stack up in the real world.
Attribute | Polyester | Nylon | Spandex |
---|---|---|---|
Comfort | Smooth, lightweight, less soft | Smoother, softer feel | Extremely soft, molds to the body |
Durability | Very durable, wrinkle-resistant | Highly durable, abrasion-resistant | Good, but less than nylon/polyester |
Stretch | Low (unless blended) | Moderate (unless blended) | Exceptional stretch, high recovery |
Moisture-Wicking Properties | Quick-drying, moderate wicking | Quick-drying, strong wicking | Excellent wicking, keeps dry |
Care | Easy, machine washable | Easy, machine washable | Needs gentle care, low heat |
Environmental Impact | Lower than nylon, recyclable options | Higher energy use, less recyclable | High, but new eco options are emerging |
You’ll find that polyester, spandex, and nylon spandex blends are everywhere in performance fabrics. These blends give you the best of both worlds—durability from polyester or nylon, and stretch from spandex.
Pajamas made from polyester, spandex, or nylon spandex feel comfortable, keep their shape, and handle frequent washing. Friendtex uses high-quality polyester and nylon in their pajamas, so you get comfort, durability, and easy care all in one.
Nylon stands out for its abrasion resistance and smooth texture. It’s a favorite for activewear because of its moisture-wicking properties and strength. Polyester is lightweight and dries quickly, making it a top pick for everyday wear and sleepwear.
Spandex is the go-to for stretch, so you’ll see it in leggings, sports bras, and fitted pajamas. When you want pajamas that move with you, polyester, spandex, or nylon-spandex blends are the way to go.
Tip: If you want pajamas that last and feel great, look for blends with polyester, spandex, or nylon spandex. These fabrics offer the right mix of comfort, performance, and easy care.

When you think about the environment, polyester has a lower impact than nylon, but both shed microplastics. Spandex shares similar concerns, but new eco-friendly options are on the rise. Friendtex focuses on high-quality, sustainable practices, so you can feel good about your choice.
What is Polyester?
Polyester Properties
When you think about polyester, you probably picture a fabric that feels smooth, lightweight, and easy to care for. Polyester stands out because it combines strength, durability, and versatility in one package. Here’s what makes this fabric unique:
Polyester is made through a process called condensation polymerization, which gives it a strong and stable structure.
This fabric resists wrinkles and holds its shape, so you don’t have to worry about ironing your clothes every day.
Polyester is hydrophobic, which means it repels water and dries quickly. You’ll notice that it doesn’t absorb much moisture, making it perfect for activewear and sleepwear.
The fabric keeps its color well, even after many washes, so your clothes look fresh longer.
Polyester has high tensile strength and resists stretching, shrinking, and abrasion. You can count on it to last through lots of wear and tear.
It’s lightweight and comfortable, making it a popular choice for everything from pajamas to sports uniforms.
The fabric also resists damage from sunlight, acids, and mildew, so it stays looking good in different environments.
Note: Polyester’s quick-drying and moisture-wicking abilities get even better with special treatments, helping you stay dry and comfortable.
Friendtex Polyester Pajamas
If you want pajamas that feel soft, last long, and keep you cool, Friendtex polyester pajamas are a top pick. Customers love how these pajamas manage night sweats and help improve sleep quality. The fabric wicks away moisture, dries fast, and lets air flow, so you stay dry and comfortable all night.
Friendtex uses relaxed cuts, flat seams, and smart vent panels to boost breathability and comfort. You’ll find that these pajamas hold up wash after wash, keeping their softness and shape.
Friendtex tests every design in real-life conditions, so you get pajamas that truly perform. When you choose Friendtex, you get high-quality polyester fabric that delivers comfort, durability, and easy care, night after night.
What is Nylon?
Nylon Properties
If you want a fabric that feels smooth, lasts long, and stands up to daily wear, nylon is a top choice. You’ll notice nylon in everything from sportswear to sleepwear because it brings a lot to the table. Here’s what makes nylon stand out:
High strength and durability mean your clothes can handle lots of movement and washing.
Excellent abrasion resistance keeps the fabric looking new, even after repeated use.
Good elasticity and resilience let the material stretch and bounce back, so your pajamas keep their shape.
Vibrant dyeability gives you bright, lasting colors that don’t fade easily.
A relatively high melting point and heat resistance make nylon suitable for heat-setting and careful garment care.
Quick-drying and moisture-wicking properties help you stay comfortable, especially if you sweat at night.
Different types of nylon, like Nylon 6 and Nylon 6,6, offer unique benefits for everything from clothing to technical textiles.
You’ll find nylon in products that need to be tough, flexible, and water-resistant. Think of items like stockings, ropes, sports jerseys, and even fishing nets. In lab tests, nylon outperforms spandex in tensile strength and abrasion resistance, making it a favorite for sportswear and active lifestyles.
While spandex stretches more, nylon gives you the durability and strength you need for everyday wear.
Tip: If you want pajamas that feel silky and last through countless washes, nylon fabric is a smart pick.
Friendtex Nylon Pajamas
When you slip into Friendtex nylon pajamas, you’ll feel the difference right away. The fabric feels smooth and lightweight against your skin, giving you a touch of luxury every night. These pajamas breathe well and dry quickly, so you stay cool and comfortable.
Friendtex uses high-quality nylon that resists wrinkles and keeps its color, even after many washes. You can choose from a range of styles, sizes, and colors to match your taste. The elastic waistbands and soft seams add to your comfort, making these pajamas perfect for relaxing or sleeping.
Friendtex also offers customization, so you can create a unique look for your brand or personal collection. With Friendtex, you get nylon pajamas that combine style, comfort, and long-lasting quality.
What is Spandex?

Spandex Properties
If you love clothes that move with you, spandex is the fabric you want to know about. You’ll find spandex in everything from leggings to fitted pajamas. This fabric stands out for its incredible stretch and recovery.
When you pull on a pair of polyester spandex or poly spandex pajamas, you’ll notice how they snap right back into shape. That’s all thanks to the unique way spandex is made.
Here’s a quick look at what gives spandex its famous elasticity and flexibility:
Spandex is created by combining macro glycol and a diisocyanate monomer, which forms a prepolymer.
This prepolymer gets extended with diamine, making a thick polymer solution.
The solution is spun into fibers, creating a segmented polyurethane structure.
The fiber has alternating soft and hard segments. The soft parts stretch out, while the hard parts hold everything together.
This special structure lets spandex stretch up to 600% and bounce right back.
You’ll notice that polyester, spandex, and poly spandex blends feel soft, smooth, and lightweight. These blends give you the best of both worlds: the durability of polyester and the stretch of spandex. That’s why you see them in activewear, pajamas, and even everyday basics.
Tip: If you want pajamas that never lose their shape, look for polyester-spandex blends. They keep you comfy and flexible all night.
Nylon Spandex Blends
Nylon spandex blends are everywhere in the world of performance fabrics. You’ll spot them in sportswear, swimwear, leggings, and even underwear. Why do so many brands use nylon spandex? It’s simple: this fabric gives you unbeatable comfort, stretch, and durability.
Here’s why you’ll love nylon spandex blends:
They resist snags, tears, and abrasions, so your clothes last longer.
The fabric dries quickly and wicks away moisture, keeping you cool and dry.
You can toss nylon spandex in the wash, and it won’t shrink or lose its shape.
The color stays bright, even after lots of washes and sunlight.
You get a smooth, chafe-free feel that’s perfect for long wear.
The 4-way stretch lets you move freely, whether you’re working out or relaxing.
Nylon spandex supports your muscles and fits like a second skin.
You’ll find nylon spandex in everything from yoga pants to swim trunks. It’s also a top pick for compression garments, dancewear, and base layers. If you want a fabric that keeps up with your active lifestyle, nylon spandex is the way to go. For pajamas, these blends offer a soft, flexible fit that feels great every night.
Polyester vs Nylon vs Spandex
Comfort & Feel
When you slip into pajamas or activewear, you want comfort to come first. Polyester and nylon both feel smooth and lightweight, but they don’t quite match the softness of natural fibers like cotton. Still, you’ll notice that enhanced polyester fibers, such as those used in performance fabrics, can feel surprisingly soft and cozy.
Polyester spandex blends take comfort up a notch by adding stretch and a gentle, body-hugging fit. Nylon feels even smoother and silkier, which many people love for sleepwear and performance clothing.
Spandex stands out for its incredible stretch and flexibility. You’ll find that spandex, especially in polyester spandex or nylon spandex blends, molds to your body and moves with you. This makes it a favorite for fitted pajamas, leggings, and compression clothing.
Textile research shows that blending spandex with polyester or nylon improves tactile comfort, fit, and moisture management. Friendtex pajamas use high-quality polyester and nylon, so you get a soft, breathable feel that keeps you comfortable all night.
If you want pajamas that feel soft, stretch with your body, and keep you cool, look for polyester spandex or nylon spandex blends. These fabrics offer better moisture management and a gentle touch.
Durability & Strength
You want your clothes to last, especially if you wear them often. Nylon leads the way in durability. It resists wear and tear, making it perfect for performance fabrics and activewear.
Polyester also scores high for durability, with strong fibers that hold up to repeated washing and daily use. Polyester spandex blends add resilience, so your clothes keep their shape and softness even after many washes.
Spandex brings amazing stretch, but it’s not as tough as nylon or polyester on its own. It can break down faster if exposed to heat or sunlight. That’s why you usually see spandex blended with polyester or nylon.
These blends combine the strength of polyester or nylon with the flexibility of spandex, giving you performance fabrics that last longer and keep their fit.
Nylon is highly durable and resists abrasion.
Polyester offers high breaking strength and resists shrinking and fading.
Spandex stretches up to 600% but needs protection from heat and UV.
Polyester spandex and nylon spandex blends deliver both strength and stretch, making them ideal for performance and everyday wear.
Friendtex pajamas use durable polyester and nylon fabrics, so you get pajamas that stay soft and strong, wash after wash.
Stretch & Flexibility
Stretch and flexibility matter most when you want clothes that move with you. Spandex is the star here. It gives you 4-way stretch, letting your clothes flex in every direction.
This is why spandex is essential in performance fabrics for sports, yoga, and fitted sleepwear. Polyester and nylon alone offer some stretch, but nothing close to what spandex provides.
Polyester spandex and nylon spandex blends are everywhere in performance clothing. These blends give you the best of both worlds: the moisture-wicking properties and durability of polyester or nylon, plus the stretch and flexibility of spandex.
You’ll notice that nylon spandex blends, in particular, offer excellent shape retention and compression, making them a gold standard for gym wear and compression garments.
Spandex delivers exceptional stretch and recovery.
Polyester spandex blends offer good flexibility and moisture-wicking properties.
Nylon spandex blends provide extreme stretch, shape retention, and durability.
Industry standards favor 4-way stretch fabrics with spandex for optimal movement and performance.
If you want pajamas or activewear that never lose their shape and always move with you, choose polyester spandex or nylon spandex blends.
Moisture & Breathability
Staying dry and cool is key for both sleepwear and performance fabrics. Polyester and nylon both have strong moisture-wicking properties, pulling sweat away from your skin and allowing it to evaporate quickly. This keeps you comfortable during workouts or warm nights.
Polyester is lightweight and dries fast, making it a top pick for performance and everyday wear. Nylon is a bit heavier but still offers excellent moisture-wicking and breathability.
Spandex, while stretchy and supportive, is less breathable than polyester or nylon. However, when blended with these fibers, spandex helps create fabrics that manage moisture well and keep you dry.
Polyester spandex and nylon spandex blends are popular in performance fabrics because they combine quick-drying, moisture-wicking properties with stretch and flexibility.
Fabric | Moisture-Wicking | Breathability | Weight | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Nylon | Excellent | Very good | Heavier | Durable, strong, may retain odors |
Polyester | Very good | Very good | Lightweight | Durable, quick-drying, may retain odors |
Spandex | Good in blends | Less than nylon/polyester | Lightweight | Highly stretchy, less breathable |
For pajamas that keep you cool and dry, look for polyester, spandex, or nylon-spandex blends. Friendtex uses these high-performance fabrics to help you sleep better and stay comfortable.
Care & Maintenance
You want your clothes to be easy to care for. Polyester, nylon, and spandex all respond well to gentle washing. Always check the care label first. For best results, hand wash in cold water with mild detergent.
If you use a washing machine, choose a gentle cycle and cold water. Avoid hot water and high heat, as these can damage spandex and reduce elasticity.
Use a lingerie bag for delicate items.
Skip fabric softeners, which can harm performance fabrics.
Air dry your clothes. Avoid dryers and direct sunlight to protect the stretch and color.
Store your garments folded in a cool, dry place.
Friendtex pajamas are designed for easy care. The high-quality polyester and nylon fabrics resist wrinkles and keep their shape, so you spend less time worrying about maintenance and more time enjoying comfort.
Environmental Impact
You might wonder how these fabrics affect the planet. Polyester, nylon, and spandex are all synthetic and non-biodegradable. They release microfibers during washing, which can pollute water and soil. Polyester has a lower carbon footprint than nylon or spandex, but it still relies on petroleum and contributes to microplastic pollution.
Nylon production uses more energy and water, and it emits nitrous oxide, a potent greenhouse gas. Spandex is also energy-intensive to make and is not biodegradable.
Fiber | Carbon Footprint (kg CO2 eq/kg) | Biodegradability | Pollution (Microfibers & Chemicals) | Recyclability & Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Polyester | 14.2 | No | Microplastics, petroleum-based | Some recycled options |
Nylon | 20 | No | Microplastics, N2O emissions | Recycled nylon exists |
Spandex | 20 | No | Microplastics, energy-intensive | Limited recycling |

Most textiles end up in landfills, with only about 1% recycled. Choosing recycled polyester or nylon and caring for your clothes to make them last helps reduce your impact. Friendtex is committed to sustainable practices, using high-quality materials and responsible manufacturing to help protect the environment.
Tip: Wash your performance fabrics in cold water, use a gentle cycle, and air dry to extend their life and reduce environmental impact.
Best Uses
Sportswear & Activewear
If you love to move, you want clothes that keep up with your fitness routine. Polyester leads the way in activewear. Market analysis shows that polyester is the most popular fabric for sportswear and activewear because it is durable, cost-effective, and versatile. You see polyester in everything from workout shirts to leggings and athleisure outfits.
It dries fast and holds its shape, so you stay comfortable during any workout. Polyester often gets blended with spandex for extra stretch, making it perfect for fitness classes, running, or gym sessions.
Nylon is also strong and smooth, showing up in sports bras and cycling shorts, but it is less common than polyester. Spandex gives you that amazing stretch, so you can move freely in all your fitness activities. When you shop for activewear and swimwear, look for polyester blends for the best mix of comfort and performance.
Everyday Wear
You want your everyday clothes to feel good and last long. Polyester, nylon, and spandex all shine here. These fabrics stretch and bounce back, so your clothes fit well and move with you. Here’s why you’ll love them for daily wear:
They stretch and recover, so you feel comfortable all day.
They last a long time, even with lots of wear and washing.
They wick away sweat, keeping you dry in warm weather or during a busy day.
They hold bright colors and fun patterns, making your outfits pop.
They work for many styles, from athleisure to casual tops and undergarments.
You’ll find these fabrics in everything from leggings to athleisure sets and even in undergarments. They make your daily routine easier and more comfortable.
Sleepwear & Pajamas

When it comes to sleep, comfort is key. Polyester and nylon are both great choices for pajamas. Studies show that polyester wicks moisture away from your skin, helping you stay dry if you sweat at night. Modern polyester blends feel soft and cozy, so you can relax and get better sleep.
Nylon pajamas feel smooth and lightweight, adding a touch of luxury to your bedtime routine. Friendtex offers high-quality polyester pajamas and nylon pajamas that combine comfort, breathability, and easy care.
You can count on these fabrics to keep their shape and softness, even after many washes. If you want pajamas that help you sleep well, polyester and nylon are top picks.
Swimwear & Underwear
Swimwear and undergarments need to fit well and last. Polyester stands out for swimwear because it resists chlorine and UV rays, making it perfect for frequent swimmers. It is also breathable and comfortable, though not as stretchy as other options.
Nylon gives you a soft, stretchy feel and dries quickly, which is great for swimwear and undergarments. Spandex adds the stretch you need for a snug fit, but it works best when blended with polyester or nylon for durability. Check out this table to see how each fabric performs:
Fabric | Chlorine Resistance | Comfort & Stretch | Durability | Drying Speed | Key Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Polyester | High | Good | Excellent | Moderate | Best for frequent swimmers; highly chlorine and UV resistant |
Nylon | Low | Excellent | Moderate | Fast | Very comfortable and stretchy; quick drying |
Spandex | Low | Superior | Moderate | Good | Unmatched stretch and fit; usually blended for durability |

You’ll see polyester, nylon, and spandex in almost all activewear and swimwear. They help your swimwear and undergarments stay comfortable, fit well, and last longer.
Pros and Cons
Polyester
When you pick polyester, you get a fabric that’s built to last. You’ll notice it’s everywhere, from activewear to pajamas, because it’s so reliable. Here’s what you can expect:
Pros:
Stays strong and resists abrasion, even after lots of washes.
Doesn’t wrinkle easily, so your clothes look neat with little effort.
Keeps its shape and dries quickly, which is great if you’re always on the go.
Lightweight and comfortable, especially in performance or sleepwear.
Easy to care for and cost-effective, making it a smart choice for many.
Blends well with cotton for extra breathability and comfort.
Cons:
Not as breathable as natural fibers, so it can feel warm in hot weather.
Sometimes feels less natural or soft compared to cotton or silk.
Can pill over time, especially with heavy use.
Raises some environmental concerns during production and disposal.
If you want pajamas that are easy to care for and last a long time, polyester is a solid pick.
Nylon
Nylon gives you a smooth, silky feel and stands up to daily wear. You’ll see it in everything from pajamas to sportswear. Here’s how it stacks up:
Pros:
Offers impressive strength and durability, so your clothes last longer.
Resists abrasion and holds up well to frequent washing.
Dries fast and wicks away moisture, keeping you comfortable.
Feels smooth and lightweight, adding a touch of luxury to your sleepwear.
Handles complex shapes and designs, making it versatile for many styles.
Cons:
Can absorb moisture, which might affect fit in humid conditions.
Sometimes costs more than other fabrics.
May become brittle or crack under sudden stress.
Needs careful handling to avoid wear from heat or rough surfaces.
Nylon is a great choice if you want pajamas that feel soft and last through lots of use.
Spandex
If you love clothes that move with you, spandex is your go-to. You’ll find it in leggings, fitted pajamas, and anything that needs a lot of stretch.
Pros:
Delivers amazing elasticity, letting you move freely and comfortably.
Wicks away sweat, so you stay dry during activity or sleep.
Keeps its shape after many washes, even with frequent stretching.
Feels smooth and molds to your body for a perfect fit.
Blends easily with polyester or nylon, boosting comfort and breathability.
Cons:
Sensitive to chlorine and saltwater, so it needs extra care in swimwear.
Can wear out faster if exposed to high heat or moisture.
Needs gentle washing to keep its stretch and shape.
Not the most eco-friendly option, since it’s petroleum-based and non-biodegradable.
For pajamas or activewear that need to stretch and move with you, spandex blends are hard to beat.
How to Choose the Right Fabric?
Decision Guide
Choosing between polyester, nylon, and spandex can feel tricky, but you can make it simple by focusing on what matters most for your needs. Think about how you’ll use the fabric and what you want from your clothes. Here’s a quick table to help you compare the main factors:
Factor | Nylon Spandex Blend | Polyester Spandex Blend |
---|---|---|
Stretch & Elasticity | Superior stretch, great for compression | Good stretch, best for moisture control |
Durability | Very durable, keeps its shape | Durable enough for daily wear |
Moisture Management | Absorbs sweat, less wicking | Wicks sweat, dries fast |
Comfort | Softer, smoother, gentle on skin | Comfortable, may feel less soft |
Cost | More expensive, premium feel | Budget-friendly, widely available |
UV Resistance | Moderate | High, great for outdoor use |
Best For | Swimwear, performance, medical wear | Activewear, outdoor gear, and everyday use |
You might want nylon spandex if you need lots of stretch and a soft, luxurious feel—think swimwear or performance gear.
Polyester spandex works well for activewear and outdoor clothes because it dries quickly and resists UV rays. If you’re on a budget, polyester blends offer great value.
Tip: Always match the fabric to your activity. For high-performance or compression needs, go for nylon spandex. For everyday comfort and easy care, polyester spandex is a smart pick.
Tips for Shopping
When you shop for clothes made with polyester, nylon, or spandex, keep these tips in mind:
Check the fabric blend. Nylon-spandex tricot feels smooth and works well for swimwear. Polyester-spandex blends are lightweight and wick moisture, perfect for leggings or pajamas.
Look for features like breathability, stretch, and durability. These make a big difference in comfort and performance.
Follow care instructions. Wash spandex blends gently in cold water and skip harsh detergents to keep them stretchy and bright.
Ask for expert advice if you want custom garments. Experts can help you pick the right fabric weight and finish for your project.
Choose based on your main use. Activewear, swimwear, and casual wear all have different needs, so pick the blend that fits your lifestyle.
Remember: The right fabric makes your clothes last longer and feel better. Friendtex offers high-quality polyester and nylon pajamas, so you can enjoy comfort and style every night.
Conclusion
You’ve seen how polyester, nylon, and spandex each bring something special to your wardrobe. Polyester gives you easy care and everyday comfort. Nylon stands out for strength and a silky feel, perfect for activewear or luxury sleepwear.
Spandex offers unmatched stretch, making it ideal for fitted or flexible pieces. If you want pajamas that last and feel great, Friendtex’s polyester and nylon options are a smart pick. Want to learn more? Check out guides on fabric types, care, and sewing tips to help you make the best choice for your needs.
FAQ
Are polyester, nylon, and spandex pajamas safe for sensitive skin?
You can wear these fabrics if you have sensitive skin. Look for high-quality options, like those from Friendtex, which use safe dyes and smooth finishes. If you have allergies, always check the label or ask for hypoallergenic options.
How do I keep my polyester or nylon pajamas soft after washing?
Wash your pajamas in cold water on a gentle cycle. Skip fabric softeners and use mild detergent. Air dry them to keep the fabric soft and prevent shrinking. Your pajamas will stay comfy and last longer.
Do polyester and nylon pajamas make you feel hot at night?
Polyester and nylon both wick moisture and dry quickly. You usually stay cool and dry. If you tend to sleep hot, try blends with spandex or look for pajamas with extra breathability.
Can I put spandex-blend pajamas in the dryer?
You can, but it’s best to air dry spandex-blend pajamas. High heat can damage the stretch. If you use a dryer, choose a low-heat setting. This helps your pajamas keep their shape and last longer.
Tip: Always check the care label before washing or drying your pajamas!