I wonder if you are smelling the poly because the iron is too hot for that fabric? Yes, to poly blends for color fastness and for durability. It will probably be cheaper to purchase, as well. And, yes, you can put the blend with other fabrics. Think what your great-grandmother used! One of my first quilts was a whole cloth that I purchased poly blend fabric because I like the sheen of it. To each his own but, if you like it, use it!