With the cost of living still far higher than we’d like, choosing cheaper alternatives of more pricey items sounds like the most sensible way to go about shopping. However, could shoppers actually be spending more in the long run by steering clear of good quality, well-made items?
Rhiannon Johns, Head of Brand and interior designer at Piglet in Bed understands shoppers need to spend wisely, however, has some advice on why investing in bedding made from natural materials over cheap synthetic options could be more cost-effective, beneficial and environmentally friendly in the long run.
- Natural materials last longer than synthetic materials
- Natural materials have more benefits than synthetic materials
- Synthetic materials can be deemed toxic
- The production of synthetic materials is more harmful to the environment
1. Natural materials last longer than synthetic materials
“Natural fibres are much more durable than synthetic materials and therefore last far longer when cared for properly. For example, linen is one of the most durable natural fabrics there is, and it only improves with age. The fibres in linen are up to 12 times stronger than the fibres in cotton, and they also get softer with each wash. Linen sheets that have been well cared for can last decades – much longer than synthetic alternatives!”
“So, whilst linen is often more expensive, it is a worthwhile investment in the long run as it will last for years to come. Synthetic options, on the other hand, will wear down quickly, forcing you to repurchase on a much more regular basis, which over time will cost far more than a single linen bedding purchase.”
2. Natural materials have more benefits
“Natural materials such as linen have many benefits that make them a worthwhile investment. They tend to be much softer to the touch, making them more comfortable against our skin, whilst also boasting hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties that synthetic materials do not have. They also make the best year-round option with thermoregulating properties that keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer, essentially improving your quality of sleep, and meaning you can keep the same bedding set all year round. Synthetic materials do not hold these same properties. You’ll find that in the summer when things get a little hot and sticky, synthetic materials will stick to your skin, making you feel even warmer. So, if you are sensitive to temperature changes, you’ll likely end up spending more on multiple season-appropriate bedding sets.”
3. Synthetic materials can be deemed toxic
“Have you ever bought into the ‘wrinkle-resistant’ claims that some synthetic items are marketed with? Whilst that might well be true, they are that way due to the use of harmful chemicals, which can be absorbed through our skin.”
“Microplastics are another issue. Synthetic materials almost continuously shed microplastics, which are not only damaging to the environment but also to the human body. Recent studies have found that microplastics can cause damage to human cells amongst other things, so if this isn’t a reason to steer clear of synthetic materials, I don’t know what it is.”
4. Synthetic materials are more harmful to the environment
“The production of synthetic materials requires far more energy than natural materials and is a large contributor to climate change. Unfortunately, the environmental impact of synthetics doesn’t end at production. Being non-biodegradable means that when your synthetic bedding has lost its colour or started to look overly worn and ends up in the bin, it will remain in landfill for many years, creating long-term pollution. As and when it does begin to break down, all the harmful chemicals and plastics made to create it will be released into the environment.”
“Natural materials such as cotton and linen are biodegradable, so once they have met their long lifespan, they will biodegrade naturally. Linen is made from the fibres of the flax plant, and every element of the plant can be used within its production. It also uses natural irrigation – rainwater – to grow, so requires very little additional water. “
