At The Pyjama House we have always produced nightwear made from 100% cotton. Our fabrics, designed in Yorkshire, are either cool Egyptian cotton or the looser woven, brushed cotton that is sometimes referred to as flannel. Both cotton varieties are made of totally natural fibre and contain none of the microfibres that are proving so damaging to the environment.
What are Microfibers?
Microfibres are defined as synthetic fibers that have a diameter of less than 10 micrometres, much smaller than the diameter of a human hair.
Microfibers are essentially a form of plastic. The huge problem they cause mainly arises from washing clothes and textiles in a washing machine. Notable materials that contain synthetic microfibers, include: acrylic, nylon and polyester.
Once released, these fibres wreak havoc in the environment as they are often mistaken for food by marine organisms, such as plankton and small fish. Once ingested they either kill or stunt the growth of these organisms.
Larger marine animals, such as whales and sea birds, who feed on the smaller organisms are also affected with feeding over time leading to big build ups of plastics in their digestive tracts. Furthermore, humans can also be affected by contaminated fish we eat in the same way. This can lead to people consuming microplastics, potentially causing negative health implications.
So do you bit and make sure you buy clothing and nightwear made from 100% cotton or other natural fibres. If you choose cotton pyjamas, you are likely to have the added bonus that sleeping in cotton can promote a good night’s sleep.
Why is cotton better to sleep in?
The Sleep Council tell us that Picking pajamas to help support good shut-eye is surprisingly simple.
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Cotton: This all-natural fabric is lightweight and soft to the touch; it’s also breathable, allowing for air circulation, and doesn’t tend to irritate the skin. However, cotton does a poor job of insulating and may make you cold if worn in a cooler climate without adequate blankets.
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Silk: This fabric is a magical thermoregulator: It can keep you warm when you’re cold and cool when you’re hot. That said, real silk is costly and requires dry-cleaning. It’s also slippery, and may move around while you sleep.
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Flannel: For colder months, a pair of pajamas made from this soft fabric may be just what you need. The material is comfortable and provides warmth and breathability, so it can help you stay toasty without overheating.
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Wool and fleece: While these fabrics will keep you warm, they may actually promote overheating. What’s more, wool may irritate the skin, causing itchiness that wakes you up during the night. And fleece doesn’t allow air to circulate, so you may find that it makes you perspire.
Flannel Pyjama Bottoms from £18 a pair.. no microfibres, just long lasting comfort from 100% cotton!
So next time you need a new pair of pyjamas (and again, for the planet’s sake please don’t buy any until you really need a new pair!) visit our website and make the right choice for both your comfort and the planet.