Non-iron shirts Vs Natural Cotton Shirt
Ironing is a time taking task yet a crisply ironed shirt is important for your appearance. A non-iron shirt can be a quick solution. But, does a non-iron short will provide equal comfort and breathability as a natural cotton shirt? A lot of people get confused between wrinkle free fabric and natural fabric when purchasing dress shirts.
A wrinkle free shirt is made up of a chemically treated fabric that remains crisps even after several washings. In contrast, a natural cotton shirt can even get wrinkles after an hour of wearing it. So, if you are tired of ironing your shirts go for wrinkle free fabric. And if you like natural and breathable material go for organic cotton dress shirts.
It’s not just about comfort and wrinkles. A non-iron fabric is different from a natural fabric in several aspects. So, if you want to compare non-iron shirts vs natural cotton shirts, keep reading.
Which One To Buy – A Non-Iron Short Vs. Natural Cotton Shirt
Picking the right shirt isn’t just about looking good. Especially when you need to check between natural and artificial fabrics, one may offer comfort while the other may offer ease. Thus, It’s more complex than it seems. So, let’s look at different aspects and compare two fabrics to set your wardrobe accordingly.
Weather Preference
Your choice of shirts can be influenced by where you live and the habits of the people around you. For example, in hot and humid areas, non-iron shirts are practical. They don’t get as crumpled or wrinkled as a cotton shirt that absorbs sweat and gets lines immediately.
Sustainability
An essential but often overlooked factor is the environmental impact of the ironing process itself. Non-iron shirts are sometimes criticized for the chemical treatments they undergo. However, ironing consumes so much electricity and water. Thus, it negatively impacts our environment.
Similarly, wrinkle free fabrics are not also safe. The formaldehyde coating and microwaving increase chemical waste and global warming. Thus, it is also a cause of water pollution and environmental destruction. So, choose wisely.
Breathability and Comfort
Traditional cotton shirts are known for their natural breathability. They allow air to flow and help you stay comfortable. They also absorb your body heat and sweat keeping your body cooler compared to wrinkle free fabric. In contrast, non-iron shirts lose their comfort due to microwaving of chemicals.
Besides, it also traps more heat. So, if you work in a hot environment, avoid non-iron shirts. However, they provide a different kind of comfort with low maintenance. They may not feel as smooth, but they save much time and effort.
Cost
Non-Iron Shirts tend to be pricier compared to cotton Shirts. This price difference is a result of the specialized treatments and technologies involved in their production. Besides, cotton shirts may be cheaper but are not cost effective either. Their ironing process eats up a lot of electricity, adding up a cost in the long run. So, if you want to go for a one time investment choose wrinkle free fabric. Yet, if you want to spend a low upfront cost, go for natural fabric.
Texture
Cotton Shirts offer a comfortable and soft texture that many people find appealing. Their natural fabric creates a pleasant and smooth feel against the skin. On the other hand, wrinkle resistant shirts are less smooth to the touch. It’s because of the use of bonded cotton fibers in their construction and the chemical treatments applied to provide wrinkle resistance.
Maintainability
The most appealing feature of wrinkle free fabric is its low-maintenance nature. People prefer it because they don’t need to spend time ironing them after each wash. A simple hang-dry is sufficient to keep them looking sharp.
On the contrary, cotton shirts require more effort to maintain. They tend to wrinkle easily and typically need regular ironing and pressing to maintain a crisp appearance. This additional maintenance requirement can be a drawback for those seeking a hassle-free wardrobe. Besides, natural cotton fabric also shrinks after the first wash. It may shorten up if it’s a good fit shirt. So, make sure to buy a size larger.
Longevity
Non-iron shirts are known for their durability. The special fabric blends like polyester and spandex make it moisture-absorbing and stretchable. These features contribute to a long-lasting effect, making them a worthwhile investment despite their higher cost. However, it may lose its wrinkle free characteristic after some wash.
Similarly, cotton shirts are celebrated for their longevity. Although they may wrinkle more easily, they can withstand regular wear. Furthermore, their classic appeal ensures they won’t go out of style anytime soon.
Health Concerns
The primary concern associated with Non-Iron Shirts is the use of formaldehyde in their production. These chemicals like formaldehyde can pose serious health risks and environmental impact. However, some brands have taken steps to reduce the use of harmful chemicals by employing proprietary technologies. Natural cotton shirts, on the other hand, do not carry the same chemical. They are a safer choice in terms of health and the environment.
Conclusion
In my opinion purchasing both iron and non-iron shirts is a good choice. You can wear a wrinkle free shirt whenever you are in a hurry and don’t have time to iron a shirt. However, you can go for cotton shirts on hot days to enjoy the comfort of breathability of natural cotton. Hence, your wardrobe should have a few natural cotton shirts as well as non-iron shirts. Besides, natural cotton shirts are also good for embroidery and designing. So, if you want to stay updated get your embroidery digitized and wear a stylish shirt.
