When it comes to clothing, cotton is an incredibly popular choice. However, many people are confused when it comes to labelling on garments and whilst they may think that they are purchasing something that is made of cotton what they may actually end with is a cotton blend.

Read on to discover exactly what 100% cotton really is, how it is made into material and what the benefits of this incredibly eco-friendly choice are.

What is it?

When the label on a garment you are looking at says 100% cotton, this means that the fabric is not a blended one but one that is made of softer, stronger natural cellulosic fibres as they are picked from the cotton plant. The amount of cotton that has been used in the fabric is pure and has not been blended with any other fibre, no matter how small the percentage.

This should not be confused with the term pure cotton which may well be blended with other fibres – in this case the term pure is used only to refer to the quality of the cotton in the item and not the percentage.

How is the material created?

In order to make 100% cotton material, the cotton must first be harvested. This is then cleaned, and all of the seeds and bits are removed. The resulting pure cotton fibre is then taken to a textile production facility. Here, the raw cotton is carded – a process during which the smaller cotton fibres are transformed into longer ones. These longer strands are then spun to create yarn. Dye is introduced to the cotton at this point if required and then it is finally woven into fabric that can be used for garments or linens for the home.

What are the benefits of 100% cotton?

One of the most popular natural fibres in the world, there are a number of benefits to be had from using cotton. Primarily it is popular for its ability to insulate, control moisture and offer comfort. It is however also a hypoallergenic fibre that is exceptionally durable and also weatherproof. Cotton makes great clothing it is a highly breathable fabric that allows moisture to be wicked away from the body, so it is good for use in both colder and warmer temperatures.

It is this wicking property together with the comfort that it offers the wearer that makes 100% cotton the perfect choice for night attire for any age group. It allows the wearer to get a good night’s sleep without getting too hot or too cold.

The eco-friendly choice

100% cotton is a very eco-friendly choice. The cotton is grown using no chemicals or pesticides, which can have a negative impact on the environment. It is a durable fabric that washes well and last for a long time. This means you can of course keep garments from one child to use with another. At the end of its lifecycle cotton, unlike synthetic fibres, naturally biodegrades.