What Are the Benefits of Buying 100% Cotton Clothing?
Cotton is extremely versatile and has a long history of use.
Cotton is the best-selling fiber in America, outselling all others combined. The exact origins of cotton are unknown; however, Cotton Incorporated believes cotton may have existed in Egypt as early as 12,000 B.C. Cotton has proven to be popular and a valuable crop around the world. Cotton is also a versatile fabric. Types of 100% cotton include Pima and Egyptian cotton.
Comfort
Cotton is a hypoallergenic fabric, meaning it is ideal for those prone to allergies or skin irritations. Cotton Inc. points out that because cotton is hypoallergenic, it is widely used in the medical field, in medical scrubs, gauze and bandages. Cotton is soft to the touch, making the texture comfortable for a wearer. This "bulk" texture can also add protection from the heat in warmer temperatures and keep the wearer warm in cooler temperatures. Cotton is also a breathable fabric; it has the ability to transfer moisture away from the skin at a quicker rate than synthetic fabrics. Another benefit of cotton is its absorbency, making it ideal for towels. Cotton can absorb up to 1/5 of its weight before it begins to feel damp, according to cottonpromotion.org.
Cotton clothing is often more comfortable than other types of fabric. It’s naturally stretchable—more so when combined with some spandex—which helps it move with your body.
Natural Fiber
Natural fibers are an important choice for the environment. They cost less to produce, use fewer chemicals and pesticides, and help protect the environment. Natural fibers, such as cotton, are a renewable resource; goods made from cotton can be produced at a quicker rate than humans can consume. Cotton is also biodegradable, meaning it will decompose in a natural environment. Non-biodegradable resources, such as rubber, can take thousands of years to decompose. Even disposable diapers take approximately 500 years to decompose, making cotton diapers a much more ideal choice for the environment.
Maintenance
Cotton clothing is low-maintenance because of its natural fibers. Man-made fibers, such as polyester, tend to require more tedious care. Cotton is a durable fabric, which is why it is widely used in household items such as curtains, bed sheets and bath towels, and in clothing. It also shows fewer wrinkles. Cotton is less likely to shrink during wash than some other fabrics, especially when it is air-dried. Cotton attracts enough moisture, even in low humidity, to remain static-free.
Cotton is a renewable and sustainable resource. Cotton farms can continue to grow more cotton, using techniques that help preserve the land. The U.S. Cotton Industry supports sustainability and works toward creating sustainable crops by reducing the environmental footprint.
Breathability
According to Cotton Incorporated, clothes made from cotton do not trap moisture. This is called breathability and helps keep the body cool. Synthetic fibers can trap moisture, causing rashes and odor.
Hypoallergenic
Very few people are allergic to cotton, which means that wearing clothing made from cotton is not likely to negatively affect your skin. Cotton Council International also states that cotton is likely to be free of contaminants that can cause an allergic reaction.
Biodegradable
While it’s always best to donate used clothing, eventually a piece of clothing will become unwearable. When cotton reaches the landfills, it will biodegrade.
Absorbent
Particularly in the warmer months, you won’t have to worry about your skin staying wet if you wear cotton, according to Cotton Incorporated. Cotton is highly absorbent, so you may have to change your shirt every once in awhile.
