Cotton, a plant and natural fiber, plays a crucial role in the fashion and textile industry. With its breathable and soft characteristics, cotton is highly favored in the production of garments and various applications. Its popularity and exceptional qualities have contributed to the success of this industry. But do you know how many types of cotton exist? How many popular types of cotton fabric are there?
1. The Most Popular Types of Cotton Today
There are numerous types of cotton, but among them, four types have been commercialized and are widely used today. Here is detailed information about each of these cotton types:
1.1. Gossypium hirsutum (Upland Cotton)
+ Native to Central America, Mexico, the Caribbean, and southern Florida.
+ Accounts for 90% of global cotton production.
+ This is the most widespread and extensively cultivated cotton type due to its excellent adaptability to various climates and soil conditions. The fibers of Gossypium hirsutum are generally shorter compared to other types of cotton, but they still possess good strength and elasticity.
1.2. Gossypium barbadense (Extra Long Staple Cotton)
+ Native to the tropical regions of South America.
+ Accounts for 8% of global cotton production.
+ The fibers of Gossypium barbadense are long and soft, producing fine and durable fabrics. This type is commonly used for manufacturing high-end textile products such as dress shirts and lingerie.
1.3. Gossypium arboreum
+ Native to India and Pakistan.
+ Accounts for less than 2% of global cotton production.
+ The fibers of Gossypium arboreum are shorter and slightly coarser compared to other cotton types. They are often used in industrial weaving and the production of wool-like fabrics.
1.4. Gossypium herbaceum (Levant Cotton)
+ Native to southern Africa and the Arabian Peninsula.
+ Accounts for less than 2% of global cotton production.
+ The fibers of Gossypium herbaceum are also short and slightly coarser. They are commonly used in the production of coarse fabrics and traditional handicrafts.
In addition to the aforementioned cotton types, there are also combinations and hybrids between different cotton species, resulting in new hybrid varieties. This contributes to the diversity and development of the cotton industry, creating cotton types with unique characteristics and versatile applications in the fashion and textile industry.
2. Development and Utilization of Cotton
Cotton has undergone diverse development and utilization in the fashion and textile industry. The difference between the old world and the new world in the use of cotton has led to changes and advancements in this industry.
Previously, two cotton species in the old world – Gossypium arboreum and Gossypium herbaceum – were widely utilized before the 1900s. However, with the advancements in technology and market demands, these two cotton types were replaced by Gossypium hirsutum and Gossypium barbadense in the new world. Both of these cotton types account for the majority of modern cotton production worldwide and are extensively applied in the manufacturing of garments and other textile products.
Cotton types are used in the fashion and textile industry with a wide range of applications. With its softness, breathability, and excellent absorbency, cotton is an ideal choice for producing dress shirts, jeans, T-shirts, dresses, and various other clothing items.
3. Diversity of Cotton Fiber Colors
The color of cotton fibers is a distinct and naturally diverse aspect. Cotton fibers occur naturally in colors such as white, brown, pink, and green. This diversity contributes to the richness and appeal of using cotton in the fashion and textile industry.
However, concerns about the genetic pollution of white cotton have led to prohibitions on cultivating colored cotton in certain locations. These regulations and restrictions are put in place to ensure that there is no unwanted gene hybridization and environmental pollution during the cotton cultivation process.
Nevertheless, using white cotton and subsequently dyeing the fibers and fabrics with chemicals also has an impact on the environment. Natural-colored cotton fibers, on the other hand, maintain their purity and sustainability.
In summary, cotton fibers possess a natural diversity of colors, and whether using white or colored cotton in the textile industry, it is essential to ensure sustainability and minimize environmental pollution.
4. 9 Popular Types of Cotton Fabrics
Currently, there are various types of cotton available in the market, each with its own characteristics and applications. Here are some popular types of cotton fabrics:
4.1. 100% Cotton Fabric
This is a natural cotton fabric widely used in the production of premium products such as pillowcases, pillows, and beddings. 100% cotton fabric is safe for consumers’ health, environmentally friendly, and has high antibacterial properties.
4.2. 65/35 Cotton Fabric
This type of fabric is a combination of polyester and cotton fibers in a ratio of 65:35. 65/35 cotton fabric has high durability and excellent sweat absorption capabilities.
4.3. 35/65 Cotton Fabric
Also known as tixi fabric, this type of fabric is often used in the production of T-shirts and sportswear due to its good stretchability and breathability.
4.4. Egyptian Cotton Fabric
This fabric is woven using the satin weaving technique and originates from Egyptian cotton fibers. Egyptian cotton fabric has standard fiber lengths ranging from 33-44mm and exhibits excellent sheen, color retention, and no shrinkage after washing.
4.5. Corduroy Cotton Fabric
This unique cotton fabric features patterns and designs created by artisans through varied weaving techniques on the fabric’s surface.
4.6. Satin Cotton Fabric
With a fabric twist density of 300 threads per inch, satin cotton fabric has a thinner and softer surface compared to other types of fabrics. Its durability and absorbency are equally competitive with other cotton fabrics.
4.7. Silk Cotton Fabric
Combining regular cotton fabric with silk fibers, silk cotton fabric offers increased durability and more affordable pricing compared to 100% silk.
4.8. Borip Cotton Fabric
Woven from 100% cotton, borip cotton fabric showcases diverse patterns and decorative designs. This fabric is widely used in the production of children’s clothing, bedding, and high-end bedding sets.
4.9. 4-Way Stretch Cotton (Cotton Spandex)
This fabric combines cotton fibers with spandex material in a 95% cotton and 5% spandex ratio. 4-way stretch cotton fabric has excellent stretchability, breathability, and antibacterial properties, making it suitable for everyday clothing.
These different types of cotton cater to the various needs and requirements of consumers in the fashion and textile industry. Selecting the appropriate cotton type ensures comfort, durability, and the overall quality of the end products.
5. Conclusion
Cotton plays an indispensable and significant role in the fashion and textile industry. Types of Cotton such as Gossypium hirsutum, Gossypium barbadense, Gossypium arboreum, and Gossypium herbaceum offer diversity and classification. After harvesting, cotton undergoes processing to create high-quality cotton fabrics for clothing production.
However, cultivating and utilizing cotton is not a simple task. It requires attention to various issues and challenges, such as maintaining quality and sustainability in the cultivation process, addressing environmental and genetic pollution, and mastering effective farming and processing methods.
Due to stringent control processes and high output costs, growing cotton in the United States and Europe has become challenging. Currently, the majority of cotton crops are grown in developing countries, particularly in Asia, where nations in the region strive to ensure cotton cultivation and fabric production meet green standards.
WELL FABRIC is a renowned brand specializing in sustainable fiber fabrics, particularly offering wholesale cotton fabrics at reasonable prices. It boasts several outstanding advantages, including:
+ Over 11 years of research and product development experience.
+ Ability to meet various MOQs (ranging from 1kg to 1 ton).
+ Reliability with certifications that meet standards such as GOTS, GRS, and OEKO-TEX 100.
For further details, please contact our hotline at +84857902535 or reach out via email.
