The Properties of Cotton
Cotton is a non-allergenic natural fibre that doesn’t irritate sensitive skin
Cotton’s softness makes it a preferred fabric for underwear and other garments worn close to the skin
Cotton’s adaptability allows it to blend easily with most other fibres including synthetics such as polyester and lycra and natural fibres like wool
Cotton is one of the easiest fabrics to dye, because it’s white in colour and very absorbant
Cotton has a high absorbency rate and holds up to 27 times its own weight in water
Cotton becomes stronger when wet
Cotton’s strength and absorbency make it an ideal fabric for medical and personal hygiene products such as bandages and swabs
Cotton breathes easily as a result of its unique fibre structure. This attribute makes cotton more comfortable to wear than artificial fibres unable to provide ventilation
Cotton keeps the body cool in summer and warm in winter because it is a good conductor of heat
Cotton is often used in the manufacture of curtains, tents and tarpaulins as it is not easily damaged by sunlight
Unlike synthetic fibres, cotton is a natural product and contains no chemicals
Cotton is very versatile – it can be blended, coated, finished, is dry cleanable, machine washable and easy to print on