100% cotton and 100% Egyptian cotton are two fabric types that are similar in many ways, yet different in a few respects. To know how they differ and why one may be better suited than the other, it is first necessary to understand the characteristics of both, the benefits they offer, and the quality considerations that should be taken into account when selecting either fabric.
Characteristics of 100% Cotton
100% Cotton is a material woven from robust cotton yarn or strands. It is a natural material, and possesses advantages such as breathability, comfort, and its light weight. 100% Cotton has good durability, remains cool, and has moderate water absorbency. Moreover, it can be dyed easily.
In addition, 100% Cotton is resistant to wrinkles and shrinkage, making it a great choice for clothing. It is also hypoallergenic, making it a great choice for those with sensitive skin. Furthermore, 100% Cotton is a renewable resource, making it an environmentally friendly choice.
Characteristics of 100% Egyptian Cotton
100% Egyptian Cotton is an extremely fine material differentiated by its long staple length. It is known for its luxury, softness, and strength. Egyptian Cotton is highly absorbent and very breathable, making it suitable for warm climates even in the summertime. It is also more resistant to shrinking than other varieties of cotton.
Egyptian Cotton is also known for its durability and longevity. It is a strong fabric that can withstand multiple washes and wearings without losing its shape or softness. Additionally, it is hypoallergenic and resistant to dust mites, making it a great choice for those with allergies or sensitive skin.
How 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton Differ
The primary difference between 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton centers around their respective yarn lengths. 100% Cotton generally has a shorter staple length than that of Egyptian Cotton. Consequently, the latter enjoys superior quality, softness, and durability. Additionally, 100% Cotton is more suited for washes as it is more resilient to them.
Egyptian Cotton is also known for its breathability, which makes it a great choice for bedding and clothing. It is also more absorbent than regular cotton, making it ideal for towels and other items that need to be able to absorb moisture. Furthermore, Egyptian Cotton is more expensive than regular cotton due to its superior quality and longer staple length.
Benefits of 100% Cotton
The primary benefit of opting for 100% Cotton is that it costs significantly less than other fabrics. 100% Cotton is great for outdoor use, with high breathability and light weight. Moreover, it is often environmental-friendly in terms of harvest processes and manufacturing techniques.
Benefits of 100% Egyptian Cotton
The primary benefit of opting for 100% Egyptian Cotton is its superior comfort. The longer yarn lengths position it as a luxurious material that adds a touch of class to any fabric application. Additionally, its strength and durability ensure longer periods of use without wearing and tearing.
Quality Considerations for 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton
The quality of any fabric is an important factor to consider when selecting either 100% Cotton or 100% Egyptian Cotton. With 100% Cotton, quality considerations include the type of standard used to manufacture the fabric, such as the Thread Count – which measures yarn density through the number of threads per square inch.
The quality of 100% Egyptian Cotton is measured through The Supima Standard or The ELS – Extra Long Staple fiber length per inch, both of which measure fiber length as opposed to Thread Count. Additionally, yarn quality and finishes such as Snow Whitening are also necessary to consider when assessing quality.
Cost Comparison of 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton
In terms of cost comparison between 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton, the former is significantly cheaper than the latter due to its shorter yarn lengths and simpler manufacturing processes. Generally speaking, the cost difference looks to be between 10-20%, depending on the specific characteristics selected such as Thread Counts.
Maintenance Tips for Both Fabrics
Both fabrics require similar care instructions to ensure maximum longevity. Usually, a cold machine wash cycle using a mild detergent is suitable for both types of cotton fabrics. Additionally, it is best to wash them separately from other garments to avoid absorbing their colors or effects during the wash process.
Where to Buy Quality 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton Fabrics
The best place to buy quality 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton fabrics would be from specialty retailers or from online retailers such as Amazon or US based wholesalers. It is important to check each retailer’s quality standards before making a purchase, such as Thread Counts or ELS fiber lengths.
In conclusion, while both 100% Cotton and 100% Egyptian Cotton are popular fabric choices among customers, they are still different in several ways. It is advisable to weigh the differences between them carefully before making a purchase decision in order to get the most suitable fabric for the required project.
