Why Hillbrush Is Moving from PVC to PET: A More Sustainable and Higher-Performing Choice

At Hillbrush, we are continually reviewing the materials used across our product ranges to ensure they deliver exceptional performance while supporting a more sustainable future. As part of this commitment, we have been transitioning products that previously used PVC filament - particularly within our Traditional range - over to PET filament.

This change not only brings meaningful environmental benefits but also offers improved performance, making PET a better material choice overall.

Why Are We Phasing Out PVC?

PVC has served many industries for years, but it presents several environmental challenges:

1. It Takes Centuries to Decompose

PVC can persist in the environment for hundreds of years, creating long-term waste issues.

2. There are Potential Release of Harmful Chemicals

During production, use, and disposal—especially incineration—PVC can release chemicals that negatively impact ecosystems.

3. It is Difficult to Recycle

PVC is one of the least recycled plastics due to the complex process required to reprocess it. Most recycling facilities avoid it entirely, meaning it generally ends up in landfill.

Because of these limitations, PVC is no longer aligned with Hillbrush’s sustainability goals or with modern expectations for responsible manufacturing.

Why PET Is the Better Choice — Environmentally and Functionally

Our Traditional range holds an important place in Hillbrush’s heritage, and improving its sustainability is a key priority. PET allows us to enhance the range without compromising its familiar feel or exceptional quality.

1. PET Comes From Recycled Sources

A significant proportion of PET comes from recycled plastic bottles, giving new purpose to what would otherwise be waste.

2. PET Is Widely Recyclable After Use

Unlike PVC, PET has an established global recycling stream.
Once products reach the end of their life, PET can be recycled again, supporting a more circular and responsible material lifecycle.

3. Stronger and More Durable Than PVC

PET offers increased rigidity and resilience compared to PVC.
For brushes and similar products within the Traditional range, this means filaments that maintain shape better and provide more consistent performance.

4. Superior Chemical and Moisture Resistance

PET performs exceptionally well when exposed to moisture, oils, fats, and cleaning agents.
This ensures long-lasting performance and reliability in both wet and dry conditions.

5. Better Temperature Performance

PET withstands higher temperatures more effectively than PVC, making it more suitable for environments that use hot water or heat-based cleaning processes.

6. Cleaner, Safer Composition

PET avoids many of the chemicals found in PVC, contributing to safer, cleaner, and more responsible product production.

The result:

PET is not just more sustainable—it delivers equal or improved performance, ensuring that customers enjoy the same Hillbrush quality they expect, with the added benefit of a more environmentally responsible material.

Where We Are in the Transition

We have already converted the vast majority of our former PVC-filament products to PET.
A small number of items still use PVC temporarily while we responsibly use up existing stock to avoid unnecessary waste. These items will transition fully as stock depletes.

A Continued Commitment to Sustainability and Craftsmanship

Hillbrush’s Traditional range has been part of our story for over a century. By selecting more responsible materials like PET, we’re ensuring this range remains true to its heritage while meeting modern expectations for sustainability and performance.

If you’d like more information about this change or how it affects specific products, our team is always happy to help - contact us.