Satin
Smooth, glossy weave structure typically made from polyester or silk. Characterized by its lustrous surface and fluid drape.
Material Score Breakdown
7-axis material rubric, not a garment verdict — see disclosure below.
How long the fabric lasts with regular use
Softness, feel against skin, wearability
Air flow and ventilation
Heat retention and insulation
Ability to pull sweat away from skin
Environmental impact of production and disposal
How easy it is to wash, dry, and maintain
Products with satin
We don't have any garments containing satin in our catalog yet. Browse the full synthetic materials or check the product catalog.
What this score doesn't measure
This is a material rating, not a verdict on any specific garment made from satin. The axes above are research-backed averages for the fiber itself.
- ×Construction. Yarn staple length, weave / knit structure, stitch count, finishing. Identical fiber, very different garments.
- ×Fabric weight (GSM). A 140 GSM tee and a 220 GSM tee made of the same satin feel and last very differently.
- ×Dye + finishing chemicals. Beyond the three we flag (PFAS, formaldehyde, antimony), dozens of textile finishes aren't modelled.
Best Uses
Classic for evening wear and linings
Smooth for pajamas and pillowcases
Pros
- ✓ Beautiful glossy finish
- ✓ Smooth against skin
- ✓ Excellent drape
- ✓ Luxurious appearance
Cons
- ✗ Snags easily
- ✗ Shows watermarks
- ✗ Slippery to sew
- ✗ Can look cheap in low-quality polyester
Better alternatives
Higher-scored synthetic materials. Same category — what to consider instead.
+24 vs Satin · 76/100
Membrane technology that is waterproof yet breathable. A laminate applied to other fabrics rather than a fabric itself.
+23 vs Satin · 75/100
Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fiber — the world's strongest fiber by weight. 15x stronger than steel, used in cut-resistant gear, ultralight backpacks, and high-performance sails.
+22 vs Satin · 74/100
Waterproof breathable membrane fabric (Gore-Tex, eVent, or similar technology) laminated to a face fabric. The gold standard for rain and storm protection in technical outerwear.
Care Guide
Special Notes
• Hand wash or dry clean depending on fiber content
• Iron on reverse side only
Additional Care Tips
- • Hand wash in cold water (30°C/85°F) with mild detergent, or dry clean for best results
- • Never wring or twist — gently press water out between towels
- • Iron on the lowest heat setting on the reverse (matte) side, or use a press cloth on the shiny side
- • Air dry flat or on a padded hanger — never tumble dry; heat damages the smooth weave
- • Store on padded hangers to prevent creasing; avoid wire hangers that can snag the surface
- • Handle with care — satin snags easily on rough surfaces, jewelry, and Velcro
Cost
$$$$$
Budget-friendly
Shrinkage
Minimal shrinkage — follow care instructions
Eco Rating
High environmental impact