How can you distinguish between cotton and polyester fabrics?

When distinguishing between cotton and polyester fabrics, the correct choice emphasizes the characteristics of cotton that make it easily identifiable. Cotton tends to wrinkle more than polyester and has a textured feel due to its natural fiber composition. This texture and tendency to wrinkle can often be observed in the fabric's surface and behavior when crumpled.

In contrast, polyester, being a synthetic fiber, is designed to resist wrinkling and has a smoother feel. It typically retains its shape well and does not exhibit the same level of texture as cotton. Understanding these tactile and visual cues allows for a proper identification process during fabric cleaning or care.

The other options present misconceptions about the characteristics of these fabrics. For instance, cotton does not have a shiny appearance, as that is more characteristic of polyester. Polyester is also known for its resistance to wrinkling rather than being easily wrinkled. Finally, while cotton does absorb water, it does so at a slower rate compared to some synthetic fibers, which generally have lower absorbency. Thus, the tactile and visual properties highlighted in the correct choice accurately represent the distinguishing features between the two fabric types.