Compared to natural fibers, many synthetic fibers are more water resistant and stain resistant. Some are even specially enhanced to withstand damage from water or stains.
==Cons==
[[File:Viscose Rayon spinning machine.JPG|thumb|right|A device for spinning Viscose Rayon dating from 1901]]
Most of synthetic fibers' disadvantages are related to their low [[Melting point|melting temperature]]:
*The mono-fibers do not trap air pockets like cotton and provide poor insulation.
*Synthetic fibers burn more rapidly than natural.
* Prone to heat damage.
*Melt relatively easily.
* Prone to damage by hot washing.
* More electrostatic charge is generated by rubbing than with natural fibers.
* Not skin friendly, so it is uncomfortable for long wearing.{{citation needed|date=July 2018}}
*Non-biodegradable in comparison to natural fibers.{{citation needed|date=June 2014}}
*Most of the synthetic fibers absorb very little moisture so become sticky when the body sweats.
*Synthetic fibers are a source of [[microplastic]] pollution from laundry machines.<ref>{{cite journal
|doi=10.1073/pnas.1504135112 |pmid=25944930 |pmc=4426466 |title=News Feature: Microplastics present pollution puzzle |journal=Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences |volume=112 |issue=18 |pages=5547–5549 |year=2015 |last1=Katsnelson |first1=Alla }}</ref>
