When shopping for clothes, it’s common to come across the terms Upland cotton, Pima cotton, Egyptian cotton, and organic cotton. But what are the differences among these types of cotton? In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at the 4 distinct types of cotton, the advantages of each, and helpful tips for their laundering.
Overview of Cotton Varieties
Cotton is one of the oldest staples of human clothing, spanning back thousands of years. Yet today, there are many varied species of cotton. Manufacturers distinguish between the various types based on various features, such as grade, fiber length, and origin.
The most common varieties of cotton are Upland, Pima, and Egyptian. Upland cotton is the most widely grown type of cotton, and is known for its short fibers and low cost. Pima cotton is a higher grade of cotton, with longer fibers and a softer feel. Egyptian cotton is the highest grade of cotton, with the longest fibers and the most luxurious feel.
Upland Cotton
Upland cotton is the most commonly used type of cotton in the world, making up the majority of global cotton production. It’s highly affordable and relatively easy to cultivate. Upland cotton usually has comparatively short fibers and comes in several grades. It’s softer and more durable than other grades of cotton, making Upland a great choice for clothing.
Upland cotton is also used in a variety of other products, such as home furnishings, industrial products, and even medical supplies. It is also used in the production of paper, as it is a great source of cellulose. Upland cotton is also used in the production of biofuels, as it is a renewable source of energy.
Pima Cotton
Pima cotton, also known as “extra-long staple” or ELS cotton, originally grew only in Egypt and Peru. While still grown in those areas, Pima cotton is now produced in countries like Bolivia and Chile. It gets its name from the Pima Native Americans, who first cultivated the fiber in the Southwestern United States. What makes Pima unique is that it’s characterized by long fibers that generate admirable quality fabrics.
Pima cotton is known for its softness, strength, and durability. It is also highly absorbent, making it ideal for towels and other items that require absorbency. Additionally, Pima cotton is resistant to pilling, meaning it will maintain its smooth texture even after multiple washes. This makes it a popular choice for clothing, bedding, and other items that require a high-quality fabric.
Egyptian Cotton
Egyptian cotton is, as the name implies, cotton grown in Egypt. Its long fibers make it the silkiest and softest cotton in the world. It’s a foolproof choice when it comes to quality, and it absorbs humidity better than other species of cotton, making it optimal for humid climates.
Egyptian cotton is also known for its durability and strength. It is resistant to wear and tear, and can last for many years with proper care. It is also hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. Additionally, it is easy to dye and can be used to create a variety of colors and patterns.
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is distinguished from traditional cotton in that it’s grown and processed without the application of any chemicals. It’s often labeled “GOTS Certified” (Global Organic Textile Standard). As a result, organic cotton is much better for our planet due to its minimal environmental impact.
Organic cotton is also beneficial for people, as it is free from the harsh chemicals used in traditional cotton production. This makes it much softer and more comfortable to wear, and it is also hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
Benefits of Different Types of Cotton
Upland cotton is cheap, making it an economical choice for clothing and other fabrics. Pima cotton benefits from its long fiber threads, thus delivering exceptional quality garments. Egyptian Cotton is ultra-soft, which makes it perfect for luxury clothing as opposed to basic t-shirts. Finally, organic cotton is outstanding when it comes to social responsibility, aiming to reduce man-made chemicals and promote sustainability.
Organic cotton is also beneficial for those with sensitive skin, as it is free from harsh chemicals and dyes. Additionally, organic cotton is often more durable than other types of cotton, making it a great choice for those looking for long-lasting clothing. Furthermore, organic cotton is often more breathable than other types of cotton, making it a great choice for those looking for comfortable clothing.
Care and Maintenance Tips for Different Types of Cotton
For the best results with Upland cotton garments, be sure to tumble dry on low heat. Pima cotton can be machine washed and tumble dried on low heat. Egyptian cotton may need gentle handling in order to maintain its ultra-softness. Be sure to hang Egyptian cotton garments to dry. When washing organic cotton pieces, make sure to avoid chlorine-based bleaches and detergents. When drying organic fabrics, air-drying or tumble-drying on a low setting is ideal.
