How to Choose a Cotton Comforter

Why get technical about cotton? It would suffice to say that as a natural fiber, coming from a plant, there is a lot that can affect the final look and feel of the fabric it is spun into. The use of cotton dates back so many centuries in certain cultures, think for example Egyptian cotton, that certain strains grown in certain climates just tend to be superior.

When purchasing a cotton comforter, look for an extra long staple cotton (commonly referred to ELS cotton), which tend to make a stronger and softer fabric. Usually the easiest way for the normal consumer to determine this is my looking at the thread count. Higher thread counts typically have to be made from ELS because a long fiber is needed to make a very thin, yet strong, thread.

In today’s market, the majority of cottons are upland cotton, Egyptian cotton or Pima (Supima) cotton. It is therefore safe to say that if the cotton comforter you are purchasing isn’t branded as Pima or Egyptian, it is probably upland cotton. Upland cotton is a shorter staple cotton and not as strong as the other two.

Pima cotton is the kind of cotton with most confusion surrounding it, but it simply refers to a particular type ELS cotton and is primarily produced in the US, Australia and Peru. It was named after the Pima Indians of Southwest America. Supima is a licensed trademark to distinguish US grown Pima cotton from Pima cotton grown elsewhere.

When it comes to buying Egyptian cotton, find out if it is ELS if possible. Consumers often assume they are buying the finest quality when they see the label that says 100% Egyptian cotton. And although Egypt is one of the largest producers of ELS cotton, it is always good to bear in mind that any cotton from Egypt of any quality can justifiably be labeled 100% Egyptian cotton. So now that you know more about cotton and how it can make a difference, search for your cotton comforter with confidence.