Cotton is a staple of the textile industry, used in countless garments, fabrics, and products. Supima cotton is one particular type of cotton, as is pima cotton. But what are the differences between these two related fabrics, and which one is best for your project or design needs? To help you decide, we’ll cover the differences between pima and Supima cotton and discuss the benefits of using each.
What are the differences between Supima cotton and pima cotton?
One difference between Supima cotton and pima cotton lies in their origins. Pima cotton originated in Peru, while Supima cotton was accidentally developed in a lab in California and is a proprietary variety limited in production. Supima is made from extra-long staple (ELS) fibers rather than the shorter staple (SS) fibers used to make regular pima, resulting in a finer, softer material. It is also more resilient, with improved color retention, drape and luster – offering designers a fabric with a luxe, high-end look.
What is the origin of Supima cotton?
Supima cotton was first developed by coincidence in the 1930s in a laboratory in California from a sample of pima cotton that had sailed there from Peru. It was first patented under the name ‘Supima’ in 1954. Supima cotton is now exclusively produced in the US and accounts for approximately one percent of the world’s total cotton production.
What is the origin of pima cotton?
Pima cotton originated in Peru, and its use dates back hundreds of years. It is named after the Pima Indians, who are believed to have introduced it to American settlers in the early 19th century. It is now grown in many other countries, including Israel and Egypt. Global production of this type of cotton accounts for approximately six percent of the world’s total.
What are the benefits of using Supima cotton?
One of the key benefits of using Supima cotton is its superior quality. Its extra-long staple fibers are longer than those used to make regular pima cotton, which makes it softer and more luxurious with longer lasting color retention, drape, and luster. In addition, Supima is extremely durable; its extra-long fibers result in increased fabric strength and less pilling over time.
What are the benefits of using pima cotton?
Pima cotton is known for its softness and durability, which makes it a great choice for luxury bedding and fabrics like towels and sheets. It is also extremely breathable, has excellent moisture-wicking capabilities, and retains color better than most other cottons. Despite these excellent qualities, it’s worth noting that regular pima cotton does not offer the same level of quality as Supima.
How does Supima cotton compare to other types of cotton?
Supima cotton has an extra-long staple fiber that is much longer than regular or conventional cotton, producing a fabric that is both softer and more resilient over time. It will pill less, retain color longer, and drape much better than regular cotton. Compared to other luxury cottons like Egyptian or Sea Island, though, it has less natural luster.
How does pima cotton compare to other types of cotton?
Pima cotton is much softer than conventional cottons like Upland or combed cotton. It also produces a higher quality fabric with improved color retention that will pill less over time. Pima still falls short in comparison to the extra-long staple fibers used to construct Supima.
What types of products is each type of cotton most commonly used for?
Supima cotton is most commonly used for high-end home products such as bed sheets or towels, as well as for clothing, like boxer briefs and underwear. Pima is also commonly used for bedding and clothing, but it’s not quite as luxurious or long-lasting as Supima. It’s ideal for everyday apparel, including t-shirts and casual trousers.
What makes each type of cotton unique?
Supima’s uniqueness lies in its extra-long staple fibers that result in a finer, softer fabric with excellent color vibrancy, drape and luster. In contrast, pima’s staple fibers are short than those used to construct Supima and as such results in a less luxurious but still durable fabric with excellent breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities.
Are there any environmental or sustainability benefits associated with either type of cotton?
Both Supima and pima cottons are fairly sustainable fabrics if they are grown and processed following environmentally friendly practices. In particular, Supima has made efforts to ensure that its cottons are grown using sustainable processes that minimize water waste and maximize water conservation efforts. Pima cottons also support sustainable farming practices.
Are there any health benefits associated with either type of cotton?
Both Supima and pima cottons are hypoallergenic and gentle on skin, making them both ideal materials for people with sensitive skin or allergies. In addition, pima has excellent moisture-wicking capabilities to help keep skin dry and comfortable, while Supima’s extra-long staple fibers make it an especially soft fabric for both home products and clothing.
What is the cost comparison between Supima and pima cottons?
Supima cottons tends to be more expensive than pima due to its extra-long staple fibers and luxurious look. However, both fabrics offer excellent quality at fairly affordable prices. For people who prioritize durability and softness, relatively affordable prices could justify buying Supima.
Where can consumers purchase products made from Supima or pima cottons?
Supima and pima cottons are widely available. You can buy clothing, sheets, towels, shawls, rugs, throws and pillows made from both types of cottons from retailers like Target, Macy’s and Bed Bath & Beyond. You can also find higher-end luxury fabrics made from both Supima or pima cottons at local fabric retailers.
