Choose a Nylon Backpack or Polyester Backpack

A backpack is an essential tool for adventure. For this reason, there are several factors that you must consider when choosing a backpack.

You need to select one that fits your body type and can carry the heaviest loads. If you are a first-time buyer, choosing the right one may be a daunting task.

However, do you often think about the backpack fabric when you purchase it? How do you know the best fabric? And what does the 'best' fabric even mean?

Some of the factors you must consider when choosing a backpack fabric are the feel, look, sustainability, quality and fabric weight.

In this blog, we will be talking about two types of backpack fabrics - Nylon and Polyester. Read on to find out whether you should choose a nylon backpack or a polyester backpack.

How are Nylon and Polyester Made?

Making nylon and polyester begins when they are the size and colour of white rice. Fabric mills then stretch out the small pellets to form long fibre strands.

Next, the fibres are combined to make threads which are then woven to form the fabric.

The details of nylon and polyester production vary slightly, but the process is the same.

Advantages of Nylon Backpacks

Elasticity

Compared to other materials, nylon can stretch, and this way, it can accommodate a lot of luggage without breaking. It is also flexible; hence it can return to its original shape after stretching.

The science behind it is that when nylon is stretched, its fibers become thinner and softer but still strong.

Impermeability

This means that nylon cannot absorb water. Therefore, they are a great choice if you are travelling in tropical regions prone to rain.

Unlike other materials, nylon will protect your luggage as water rolls off its surface.

Ease of Cleaning

One of the properties that make nylon backpacks stand out compared to polyester backpacks is their ease of cleaning.

With nylon backpacks, you can be sure dirt will not stick to their surface. Moreover, if you need to clean it, wipe it with a damp cloth.

However, remember to wash nylon backpacks with cold water, as hot water will cause the fabric to wrinkle.

Mildew Resistant

If you love travelling, you need a resistant backpack to mildew when exposed to humid conditions. Nylon backpacks got you covered.

Drapability

Compared to polyester backpacks, nylon backpacks have amazing draping properties.

This is the property of nylon backpacks to assume a graceful appearance when used. Nylon has an appealing appearance, and that is because of the draping property.

Disadvantages of Nylon Backpacks

Heat Retention

Nylon backpacks do not easily disperse heat into the environment. This means that they do not have 'closed construction filaments.

This property is best needed during winter but may be unbearable during the summer seasons.

Therefore, during summer, it may not be ideal to use nylon backpacks as the heat retained may cause damage to perishable food and electronics due to the excess heat.

Easily Destroyed by Bleach

When you use bleach while washing your nylon backpack, it will be destroyed. The delicate fibres of nylon are also destroyed when exposed to acids.

Avoid using bleach when washing the backpack regardless of whether it is organic - it will still destroy the nylon material.

High Affinity to Dyes

Nylon can easily pick up colours from other fabrics during washing. What's worse is that the dye it picks will remain on the fabric permanently.

For this reason, always wash nylon backpacks separately from other types of fabrics if you want them to retain their appealing colour and appearance.

Having talked about nylon backpacks, it's time to see how different or similar polyester is to nylon.

Advantages of Polyester Backpacks

Thermoplasticity

Polyester is naturally a heat-sensitive material. To make the backpack more appealing, pleats, patterns and shapes can be laser cut onto it.

The fibre is also bright and attractive, and it can be easily modified to serve different purposes.

Durability

Polyester backpacks are durable, and they can last up to 10 years without getting worn out. Moreover, once it is matted down during manufacture, it will not return to its original outlook.

Aside from its ability to last long, the polyester fabric can also be recycled; hence it is sustainable and safe for the environment.

If you have a polyester backpack and you no longer intend to use it, return it to the manufacturer, and it will be used to make another backpack.

Water and Stain Resistant

Like nylon backpacks, a polyester backpack is also ideal for travelling in humid places. The bag will dry fast.

It is also resistant to mildew so you can carry it during your long adventure hours.

However, unlike nylon backpacks, polyester is resistant to stains, and therefore you can be sure to use it anywhere without worrying about tough stains.

Soft on the Hands

Polyester is very smooth and soft when touched. It has a natural velvet texture that makes your backpack look appealing at all times.

Retains Original Shape even after Machine Washing

Polyester does not retain dye from other fabrics during washing. For this reason, you can safely wash it with other fabrics.

Even after a thorough machine wash, it will retain its original shape and never lose its colour even after using it for a long time.

Disadvantages of Polyester Backpacks

Lots of Energy Use During Production

Polyester requires a lot of energy during its production, which leads to the emission of greenhouse gases and chemicals that may be harmful to the environment.

The high amounts of energy required mean it also needs a lot of water for cooling.

Less Breathable

Polyester backpacks are non-porous. This means that it will feel uncomfortable when you use it during hot and humid conditions.

This is because there will be an increase in temperature and moisture in the bag.

Highly Flammable

If you want to go camping and opt to carry a polyester backpack, always keep it far away from fire.

Polyester can easily catch fire even upon the slightest exposure. If you are travelling to areas where bushfires are common, take the utmost care when using polyester backpacks.

Susceptible to Oil Stains

Despite being resistant to all other stains, polyester backpacks will pick up oil stains fast, and it will be very difficult to remove them.

Therefore, be very careful when using oils around polyester backpacks.

Final Verdict

Nylon and polyester backpacks each have unique properties, making them ideal for certain individuals.

They are both great in their ways with a few minor cons. Select the one that works best for you, then make your purchase.