Polyester vs Eco Lanyards: Materials Compared

When choosing lanyards for your organisation, the material plays a big role in comfort, durability and environmental impact. Two of the most common options are standard polyester lanyards and eco-friendly alternatives made from recycled materials. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right option for your needs. If you’re comparing materials, you can browse […]
Lanyards Online
Jan 21, 2026

When choosing lanyards for your organisation, the material plays a big role in comfort, durability and environmental impact. Two of the most common options are standard polyester lanyards and eco-friendly alternatives made from recycled materials. Understanding the differences can help you choose the right option for your needs.

If you’re comparing materials, you can browse our full range of lanyards to see both polyester and eco options available in the UK.

What Are Polyester Lanyards?

Polyester lanyards are one of the most widely used types of lanyards. They’re made from durable synthetic fibres that are designed to withstand daily wear, making them a popular choice for workplaces, events and schools.

Polyester lanyards are known for their strength, flexibility and ability to hold printed designs clearly. This makes them a reliable option for organisations that need long-lasting lanyards with consistent branding.

What Are Eco-Friendly Lanyards?

Eco-friendly lanyards are typically made from recycled materials, such as recycled PET plastic. These lanyards are designed to reduce environmental impact while still offering the durability and comfort needed for everyday use.

Many organisations choose eco-friendly lanyards as part of wider sustainability initiatives or to align with environmental policies and values.

Durability and Everyday Use

Polyester lanyards are highly durable and well suited to environments where lanyards are worn daily or exposed to regular handling. They resist fraying and maintain their shape over time.

Eco-friendly lanyards are also designed for durability, but their lifespan may vary depending on the specific recycled material used. For most office, education and event settings, eco lanyards provide more than enough strength for everyday use.

Appearance and Print Quality

Both polyester and eco lanyards can be printed with logos, text and patterns. Polyester lanyards often deliver very crisp print results, particularly for bold designs and solid colours.

Eco-friendly lanyards may have a slightly different texture or finish depending on the material, but modern printing techniques still allow for clear, professional branding across printed lanyards and custom lanyards.

Which Material Is Right for Your Organisation?

The right choice depends on your priorities. Polyester lanyards are a dependable, versatile option for most organisations, while eco-friendly lanyards are ideal for those looking to reduce environmental impact or support sustainability goals.

Many organisations use a mix of both materials depending on the situation, such as eco lanyards for events and polyester lanyards for everyday staff use.

To compare materials, styles and finishes, browse our full range of lanyards or speak to our team for guidance.

 

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