Is polyester bad for our homes?
When we think about polyester, we often picture fast fashion - cheap, synthetic fabrics that shed microplastics and take centuries to break down. But what about the polyester hiding in our homes? The curtains framing our windows, the cushions we lean against, the upholstery on our sofas - so many of these everyday textiles are made from plastic. And just like polyester clothing, they contribute to pollution, shedding microplastics and lingering in landfills for generations.
At Haines, we believe that making conscious choices in our homes is just as important as making sustainable choices in our wardrobes. If you’re investing time and effort into creating a beautiful, low-impact home, avoiding polyester in your interiors should be high on your priority list.
The Problem With Polyester Interiors
Polyester is plastic. Full stop. And whether it's in your wardrobe or your living room, the environmental impact is the same.
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Microplastic Pollution – Every time we sit on a polyester-covered sofa or draw polyester curtains, tiny plastic particles are released into our homes. These microplastics don’t just stay there—they circulate in the air, settle on surfaces, and ultimately find their way into our waterways and food chain.
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Non-Biodegradable Waste – Polyester takes hundreds of years to break down. When we throw out a polyester-covered chair or replace synthetic curtains, those fabrics don’t just disappear. They pile up in landfills or, worse, end up in incinerators, releasing harmful chemicals into the atmosphere.
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A False Sense of Sustainability – Recycled polyester may seem like a greener alternative, but it’s still plastic. While it repurposes waste, it doesn’t solve the fundamental issue of microplastic pollution or biodegradability. If we truly want to embrace circular economy interiors, we must prioritise natural fibres that can be reused, repurposed, and eventually returned to the earth.
The Natural Alternative
So, what’s the solution? Simple: Choose natural fibres whenever possible. Linen, cotton, wool, and hemp not only look and feel better, but they also break down naturally, without leaving behind harmful microplastics.
At Haines, we champion a circular approach to home textiles, offering surplus luxury fabrics that are both beautiful and sustainable. By opting for high-quality, natural fibres that already exist in the world, we can reduce waste and make choices that support a healthier planet.
A Low-Impact Home Starts With Thoughtful Choices
Sustainable living isn’t just about what we wear - it’s about the choices we make in every corner of our lives, including our interiors. By steering clear of polyester in our curtains, upholstery, and soft furnishings, we take another step toward a home that’s as kind to the planet as it is beautiful.
At Haines, we’re here to help you make those choices. With our carefully curated collection of surplus home textiles from luxury brands, you can create a stylish, low-impact home - without compromise.
Let’s choose better. Let’s choose natural. Let’s make our homes as sustainable as our wardrobes.
Discover our collection: Haines Collection
