Have you ever wondered why most people opt to buy Egyptian cotton bed sheets rather than regular cotton ones? The main reason lies in the difference between the specific properties of both types of cotton. Let us explore the differences that make the former superior to regular cotton.
What is Egyptian Cotton?
The name refers to the origin of the plant used to create the cotton. The cotton plants in Egypt are grown in a unique climate that creates the perfect growing conditions that result in harnessing super fine and long yarn. Egyptian cotton has been widely regarded as the best for durability and softness. Hence, most people prefer to buy Egyptian cotton bed sheets because of their softness.
Difference Between Egyptian and Regular Cotton
Apart from the origin of the plant, there are many other differences between Egyptian cotton and regular cotton. Egyptian cotton is handpicked, whereas machines pick regular cotton. This crucial step can significantly affect the manufacturing process and, thus, the quality of the yarn. Handpicked cotton allows the cotton fibers to be handled delicately.
This reduces the risk of splicing since less stress is placed on the threads, keeping them intact. This significantly affects the longevity of the cotton as it can withstand frequent washing since it is stronger.
When a machine picks cotton, more stress is placed on the cotton fibers, which results in a weaker yarn that splices,thus creating a coarser texture and resulting in an uncomfortable sleep. Egyptian cotton has a smaller diameter than regular cotton, allowing more threads per square inch to create a strong and lustrous bedsheet.
Is Egyptian Cotton Better Than Regular Cotton?
It is a widely known fact that a higher thread count results in a better quality sheet, regardless of the type of cotton used. In recent years, it has been discovered that the origin of the cotton makes a significant difference in the longevity, durability, and quality of the yarn; hence, Egyptian cotton is considered the best.
Egyptian cotton has a strong and unbroken yarn, resulting in a flexible fabric. Thus, Egyptian cotton sheets feel super soft and can last longer than regular cotton. Egyptian cotton does not pill like other cotton, even after many washes. This is due to the unique qualities of the Egyptian cotton plant since it does not produce much lint.
Moreover, the yarn of Egyptian cotton is more porous, thus enabling the fabric to absorb more liquid and colors during the dying process. So unlike regular cotton bedding, Egyptian cotton bedding does not fade over time and remains bright and vibrant. Another factor that makes Egyptian cotton superior to regular cotton is the natural breathability of the material, which allows air to pass through the sheets easily. This results in a more comfortable night’s sleep. Regular cotton can cause you to feel overheated during the night.
Summing Up
These special features of Egyptian cotton make it superior to regular cotton. But to maintain these features, extra care should be taken when maintaining and washing Egyptian cotton sheets.
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