There are many different types of cotton that are grown and produced around the world. Each type of cotton has its unique characteristics and qualities that make it suitable for different textile products.
- Upland Cotton: This is the most common type of cotton in the world. It is grown in many different countries, including India, China and the United States (where it accounts for around 97% of the cotton crop). Upland cotton is known for its durability and affordability and has short fibers, which makes it suitable for a wide range of textile products.
- Pima Cotton: Also known as extra-long staple (ELS) cotton, has longer fibers than Upland cotton, which gives it a softer, smoother texture. It is similar to Egyptian cotton in terms of its long, silky fibers. Pima cotton is often used to make high-quality clothing and towels and is primarily grown in the southwestern United States, Peru, and Australia.
- Egyptian Cotton: Egyptian cotton is renowned for its long, fine, silky fibers and luxurious feel. It is primarily grown in Egypt, where the climate and soil conditions are ideal for producing high-quality cotton. Egyptian cotton is often used to make high-quality clothing and bedding.
- Sea Island cotton is a type of cotton that is grown in the Caribbean. It is known for its long, silky fibers that are prized for their softness and sheen, which make it soft and luxurious. Sea Island cotton is a very rare and expensive type of cotton often used to make high-quality clothing and bedding.
- Organic Cotton: Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides. It is becoming increasingly popular due to its environmentally friendly and sustainable production methods.
- Organic cotton is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. It is a more sustainable option than conventional cotton, and it is often considered to be softer and more comfortable to wear.
- Supima Cotton: Supima cotton is a trademarked brand of American Pima cotton. It is known for its strength, softness, and durability and is used in a wide range of textile products.
- Xinjiang Cotton: Xinjiang cotton is grown in the Xinjiang region of China and is known for its long, fine fibers and high-quality.
- Gossypium hirsutum: Also known as Mexican cotton, this is a wild cotton species that is native to Mexico and is believed to be one of the ancestors of modern Upland cotton.
- Gossypium barbadense: This is the species of cotton that produces Pima cotton and Sea Island cotton.
- Gossypium herbaceum: This is the oldest known species of cotton and is still grown in parts of India and Pakistan.
- Gossypium arboreum: This is another species of cotton that is grown in India and Pakistan.
- Deltapine: This is a brand of cotton seed that is used to grow Upland cotton in the United States.
- Acala: This is a variety of Upland cotton that is grown in California and Arizona.
- Bollgard: This is a type of genetically modified cotton that is resistant to certain pests.
- Recycled cotton is made from recycled cotton fibers. It is a more sustainable option than conventional cotton, and it is often used to make clothing and home goods.
- Bamboo cotton is a type of cotton that is made from bamboo fibers. It is known for its softness, durability, and breathability. Bamboo cotton is often used to make clothing and bedding.
- Tencel cotton is a type of cotton that is made from wood pulp. It is known for its softness, strength, and sustainability. Tencel cotton is often used to make clothing and home goods.
- Modal cotton is a type of cotton that is made from wood pulp. It is known for its softness, drape, and moisture-wicking properties. Modal cotton is often used to make clothing and home goods.
- Supima cotton is a type of Pima cotton that is grown in the United States. It is known for its long, silky fibers, which make it soft and luxurious. Supima cotton is often used to make high-quality clothing and bedding.
- Sustainable cotton is a type of cotton that is grown using sustainable practices. This may include using less water, pesticides, or fertilizers. Sustainable cotton is often considered to be a more environmentally friendly option than conventional cotton.