Polyester is a petroleum-based synthetic fabric made with no natural fibres.
The nutrients in natural fibres have the ability to adsorb sweat components, which means the sweat adheres to the surface of the fabric. Synthetic fibres traps sweat and bacteria in the spaces between the fibres. Therefore, synthetic fibres are not able to breakdown bacteria and this traps sweat and bacteria together inside the clothing, a combination that results in odor.
Adsorption vs. Absorption
Adsorption = the process in which liquids from a substance adhere to a surface of the adsorbent.
Absorption = the process in which a fluid is dissolved by a liquid or a solid.
Why You Should Wear Natural Fibres Instead
Opt for clothing made out of a natural fibres like cotton, bamboo, wool and linen. These fibres are able to adsorb moisture itself and don’t trap the smelly bacteria in the fabrics like synthetics do.
As natural fibres are much more breathable, both sweat and bacteria can evaporate easier from the fibres.