The Desirability of Cotton

Wednesday 25th of March 2009 03:36:58 AM

Cotton is the most used fiber in the world. It has natural characteristics that make it easy to process, easy to die, and easy to color or print. Materials made of cotton can be manipulated in many different ways to achieve a desired fashion outcome and makes cool work clothing such as uniforms.

New technologies are aiding in cotton manufacturing. As new techniques are introduced the wearability and care of cotton materials becomes easier. Consumers can now buy cotton t-shirts, pants, oxfords, polo’s, and more that are wrinkle resistant, water resistant, flame resistant, dirt proof, and low maintenance.

The new cotton finishing techniques have increased the value and quality of cotton clothing. Consumers are looking for high quality, durable fabrics at great prices. We can now offer them the best cotton products at affordable prices.

“It is hard out there for everybody,” says Monica Mallan of the Cotton Alliance. “People are looking for inexpensive clothing that is going to last. It is very reminiscent of the reason Levi’s first became popular – they were affordable and durable. Our improved finishing techniques offer the consumer better quality clothing items that will last for a long time without showing excessive wear.”

Without finishing, say industry experts, cotton wrinkles quite easily. The fibers in untreated or unfinished cotton have no elasticity and do not stretch. SANFOR is one of the most popular finishing techniques. This trademarked method keeps clothing from shrinking, protects it from wrinkles, and increases durability.

Calendaring is another method of improving the value of cotton fabrics. Calendering involves pressing which gives the fibers sheen, creates a smooth texture, and improves density to help make the clothing more durable and less prone to wrinkles.

Water repellent finishing is also very popular for cotton used in clothing items. It is achieved by drenching the cotton fibers in certain chemicals, like silicon, which result in a water resistant fabric. This technique is used with cotton outerwear, sweat suits, hoodies, and other athletic wear.