At Original Favorites, we understand that when it comes to cotton not all fibers are created equal. If you have ever wondered why some garments feel softer, last longer, or hold their shape better, the answer often lies in the type of cotton used. Supima® cotton, a premium variety, is globally understood as the best strand of cotton, but how does it differ in comparison to standard cotton? Let’s break it down.
Your Questions Answered: Differentiating Different Types of Cotton
What is Supima® Cotton?
Supima® cotton is a superior type of cotton grown exclusively in the United States. Its name comes from a blend of "superior" and "Pima," a reference to its exceptional quality and origins in comparison to the already luxury Pima cotton strand. Supima® represents less than 1% of the cotton grown worldwide, making it a highly exclusive and sought-after material.
Supima® vs. Standard Cotton: What's the difference?
Fiber Length
Supima® cotton features extra-long staple fibers, which measure about 1.5 inches in length. This increased length creates smoother, stronger threads that enhance the quality of the fabric.
In contrast, regular cotton typically has shorter fibers, which can result in coarser textures and weaker threads. This difference impacts durability and softness over time.
Durability
The extra-long fibers make Supima® cotton up to twice as strong as regular cotton. This strength translates to garments that are more resistant to fraying, tearing, and pilling.
While still durable, standard cotton fabrics are more prone to wear and tear, especially after repeated washes.
Softness
The longer fibers of Supima® cotton result in a smoother surface, creating a luxurious, buttery-soft feel. Supima fabrics are known for their premium comfort.
Regular cotton, while comfortable, often lacks the refined softness of Supima and can feel rougher over time.
Color Retention
Supima® cotton absorbs dye more effectively, resulting in vibrant, long-lasting colors. Even after multiple washes, Supima garments maintain their richness and depth.
In comparison, colors in regular cotton tend to fade more quickly due to shorter fibers and lower dye retention capabilities.
Environmental Impact
Supima® cotton is grown under strict regulations in the U.S., using sustainable farming practices. These include efficient water use, ethical labor standards, and minimal pesticide application.
On the other hand, standard cotton production varies widely, and in most cases, involve less sustainable practices, including higher water and pesticide use.
Why choose Supima® Cotton?
Investing in Supima® cotton means investing in quality. Whether it’s a T-shirt for you or wholesale for your business, products made with Supima cotton offer distinct benefits.
Supima® cotton ensures a longer lifespan for your garments, with durable fabrics that look and feel new for years. As well as, the unmatched comfort provided by its softer, smoother texture enhances everyday wear. Choosing Supima cotton is a sustainable choice, giving you confidence in a product grown with care for both the environment and workers.
Shop our line of Supima® products today. Choose quality when it comes to your customers.