When it comes to purchasing new clothing, the type of fabric is an important consideration. The fabric can influence the garment's longevity, comfort, and overall quality. Cotton is a common choice for many casual clothing types, but not all cottons are created equal. In this article, we'll be comparing Pima cotton, known for its superior qualities, with regular cotton, the more commonly used variant.
What is Regular Cotton?
Regular cotton, also known as upland cotton, makes up about 90% of the world's cotton production. It's widely used because it's relatively easy to grow and process, making it an affordable choice for many types of clothing. Regular cotton has short to medium-length fibers, which means it creates a less smooth fabric and may not hold up as well over time compared to some other types of cotton.
Advantages of Regular Cotton:
- Affordable: Regular cotton is more widely available and typically less expensive than other cotton types.
- Versatile: It can be used for a wide range of clothing items, including t-shirts, dresses, and underwear.
- Breathable: Like all cotton, it's breathable, which makes it suitable for warm climates and summer clothing.
What is Pima Cotton?
Pima cotton, on the other hand, is a premium type of cotton known for its extra-long staple (ELS) fibers. The length of these fibers is significantly longer than that of regular cotton, which results in a finer, smoother fabric that's more durable and resistant to pilling. Pima cotton is also more absorbent, meaning it takes dye better and produces more vibrant colors.
Advantages of Pima Cotton:
- Quality: The extra-long fibers make for a more luxurious fabric that's smoother and more durable than regular cotton.
- Durability: Pima cotton is resistant to fraying, tearing, and pilling. It's also less likely to fade or lose its shape over time.
- Comfort: Its softness and breathability make Pima cotton exceptionally comfortable, making it ideal for clothing that is worn close to the skin.
Pima Cotton vs. Regular Cotton: The Verdict
When it comes to choosing between Pima cotton and regular cotton, it ultimately depends on your needs and priorities. If you're looking for affordable, versatile clothing for short-term use, regular cotton could be a good option. However, if you're willing to invest a bit more for higher quality, more comfortable, and long-lasting garments, Pima cotton would be the ideal choice.
At Setcomforts, we choose Pima cotton - more specifically its superior variant, Supima cotton - for our t-shirts. We believe in offering our customers the highest quality, which is why we select the best materials. Our Supima cotton t-shirts offer a luxurious feel and durability that stands the test of time. Shop our collection today and experience the Supims cotton difference for yourself. Here’s some more info on Supima cotton.
FAQs:
Question: Can I care for my Pima cotton clothes the same way I care for my regular cotton clothes?
Answer: Sort of, you can generally care for Pima cotton clothes the same way you would regular cotton clothes. However, to maintain the fabric's quality and longevity, it's best to follow our specific Supima cotton care instructions.
Question: Is Pima cotton eco-friendly?
Answer: Pima cotton, like other types of cotton, requires a significant amount of water to grow. However, Pima cotton's durability means clothes made from it are likely to last longer, potentially reducing the overall environmental impact. At Setcomforts, our philosophy of responsibility reaches far beyond just our company. Our steadfast dedication to sustainability is evident not only in our practices but also in our selection of partners. We are proud to be partnered with a manufacturing entity that is certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). Our partner doesn't simply grow and supply organic and Supima cotton - they are a strong advocate for sustainable energy practices.
Question: Where can I buy Pima/Supima cotton clothes?
Answer: At Setcomforts, we offer a range of clothing made from high-quality Pima and Supima cotton. Browse our collection to find the perfect piece for your wardrobe.
