One of the worlds most used natural fiber which is primarily grown and used to make cloth. But did you know other parts of the cotton plant are put to good use too like in the production of foods, plastics and in paper products - According to the National Cotton Council of America. Because cotton is a natural product and because of the way it is designed and manufactured into clothing, it has many advantages, such as its ability to control moisture, insulate, provide comfort and it is also hypoallergenic, weatherproof and is a durable fabric.

Soft, Natural and Breathable

Cotton fabric is soft and comfortable. It’s hypoallergenic and it won't irritate sensitive skin that can cause allergies. The fibers are spun tightly into yarn that won't irritate skin or cause static electricity. For these reasons, items that you wear frequently and close to your body, like T-shirts and underwear, are usually made of cotton.

Cotton is all-natural and doesn't contain harmful chemicals. Natural fabrics like cotton fabric are highly breathable and allow air circulation that discourages fungi from growing in dark, moist environments. Synthetic fabrics don’t offer such ventilation, and constrictive garments in man-made materials can encourage yeast to flourish.

Cotton is perfect for wearing in the summer, as it can easily absorb body moisture and help keep you dry by drawing it away from the skin where it evaporates in the air around you. Cotton is also able to draw heat away from your skin, keeping you cool and comfortable in hot weather.

Moisture Control

Cotton fabric is breathable and transmits moisture away from the body and is absorbent and removes liquid from the skin, like a towel, according to Cotton Incorporated. Cotton allows you to remain comfortable as you exercise, keeping moisture from building up between your skin and clothing. The International Forum for Cotton Promotion states that cotton can take up to one-fifth of its weight in water before feeling damp.

Insulation

Cotton clothing protects against from heat in the summer and cold in the winter by providing thermal insulation as the cotton fabric traps air between the fabric fibers. The cotton fibers in clothing hold the fabric away from the skin, further allowing for more air to be trapped between the skin and fabric which helps with insulation and comfort.

Hypoallergenic

Cotton fabric rarely causes allergic reactions and wearing cotton is often recommended for those with skin allergies, notes Cotton Incorporated. Because cotton is hypoallergenic and does not irritate skin, it is used in medical products like bandages and gauze, and is the fabric of choice when it comes to baby clothing.

Weatherproof

Cotton fabrics can easily be manufactured into weather-resistant garments through construction and finishing of the fabric. For example, cotton can be made into a tight, dense fabric with a weather-repellent finish to make weather resistant clothing, yet the cotton fabric retains its comfort and breathability.

Comfort

Cotton clothing is soft and easily stretches, making it a comfortable fabric to wear. Due to its softness and comfort, it is often used in underwear and undershirts, according to the International Forum for Cotton Promotion.

Durability

Cotton has a high tensile strength, making it strong, durable and less likely to rip or tear. It is 30 percent stronger when wet, withstanding many washings in hot water.

Some Disadvantages of Cotton Clothes

Shrinkage and Wrinkling

Make sure your cotton clothes fit well before you buy them, as cotton has poor elasticity and won't have much give. Your cotton clothes are prone to shrinking after laundering, even pre-shrunk cotton clothes. And because cotton also has poor resiliency, meaning the fabric won't return to its original shape after being altered, you won't have much luck stretching out the jeans you accidently shrunk in the dryer. Try air drying fitted cotton clothes that you don't want any smaller.

Bring a travel iron or consider wearing other fibers when travelling. All-cotton items such as shirts and blouses wrinkle easily and require ironing or pressing after long wear or packing to keep them looking sharp.

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