All about cotton: The fabric you need to know

Cotton is a common fabric for clothing but what is it exactly and what are the differences about different types of cotton?

Cotton is one of the most widely used natural fibers in the world, loved for its versatility, comfort, and sustainability. We use it in many of our products. Here's everything you need to know about cotton, its various types, and the pros and cons of each.

Key facts about cotton production

Cotton farming requires a significant amount of water, especially for conventional varieties.

Organic and recycled cotton offer more sustainable alternatives but come with higher costs.

Long-staple cottons like Pima and Egyptian are prized for their superior quality but need careful sourcing.

Types of cotton

1. Regular cotton (conventional cotton)

This is the most common type of cotton used in clothing. It’s grown using traditional methods and is often mass-produced to meet global demand.

Pros:

• Affordable and widely available.
• Soft and breathable.
• Versatile for various clothing types.

Cons:

• Heavy use of pesticides and water in production.
• Can shrink or lose shape over time.

2. Organic Cotton

Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, making it a more sustainable option.

Pros:

• Environmentally friendly and free of harmful chemicals.
• Softer and hypoallergenic, great for sensitive skin.
• Supports sustainable farming practices.

Cons:

• More expensive due to lower yields and certification costs.
• Limited availability.

3. Pima Cotton

Pima cotton is a high-quality, long-staple cotton known for its durability and luxurious feel.

Pros:

• Exceptionally soft and smooth.
• Stronger and more durable than regular cotton.
• Resistant to pilling.

Cons:

• Expensive compared to regular cotton.
• Requires more care in laundering.

4. Egyptian Cotton

Often considered the pinnacle of cotton quality, Egyptian cotton is grown in the Nile River Valley and is known for its extra-long staple fibers.

Pros:

• Ultra-soft and luxurious.
• Durable and long-lasting.
• Excellent breathability and moisture-wicking.

Cons:

• Premium price tag.
• Often counterfeited; ensure authenticity when buying.

5. Supima cotton

Supima is a trademarked variety of Pima cotton grown exclusively in the United States, adhering to strict quality standards.

Pros:

• Extremely soft and strong.
• Resistant to fading and pilling.
• Sustainably grown.

Cons:

• Higher cost.
• Limited to specific producers.

6. Recycled cotton

Recycled cotton is made from post-consumer or post-industrial cotton waste, reducing environmental impact.

Pros:

• Eco-friendly and reduces textile waste.
• Conserves water and energy in production.
• Often blended with other fibers for added durability.

Cons:

• Lower durability than virgin cotton.
• May lack the softness of new cotton fabrics.