Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets – How to Choose
Overview of Cotton
Cotton is a popular natural fiber in textile production for centuries, famous for its softness, breathability, and durability. However, low thread count and poor construction can result in scratchy and uncomfortable sheets. Premium long and extra-long-staple cotton, such as Pima, Supima, and Egyptian cotton, have longer fibers, providing stronger, softer, and more durable sheets. Pima cotton has a staple length of 1 1/8 to 1 5/16 inches, while Egyptian cotton has a length of 1 3/8 inches or longer. Both types of cotton are more expensive than traditional cotton products. This article focuses on the comparison of Pima cotton vs. Egyptian cotton, exploring their characteristics, benefits, and differences in quality, appearance, color retention, softness, durability, and cost.
- Overview of Cotton
- Importance of Cotton in Textiles
- About Pima Cotton
- About Egyptian Cotton
- Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
- Care For Pima Cotton and Egyptian Cotton Bed Sheets
- Alternatives
- Summary – Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
- Pima Cotton Bed Sheets – Top Recommendations
- Egyptian Cotton Sheets – Top Recommendations
Importance of Cotton in Textiles
Cotton is an important material in the textile industry. It can produce a wide range of products, from clothing to bedding to home decor. Cotton is a soft, breathable fabric that is comfortable and durable. It is also relatively easy to care for. Cotton is also a renewable resource, making it an environmentally friendly choice. Cotton is also a versatile material that can blend with other fibers to create unique fabrics.
About Pima Cotton
What is Pima Cotton?
Pima cotton is a type of extra-long staple (ELS) cotton that is grown in the Southwestern United States and Peru. It is known for its softness, strength, and durability.
The length of traditional cotton fibers is 1.1 inches. The length of Pima cotton fibers is 1.4 to 2 inches. It exceeds International Cotton Advisory Committee’s 1 3/8-inch minimum for the extra-long staple. A close cousin of Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton’s highly durable fibers can withstand more washes than regular material. As a result, it will last as much as 50% longer than regular materials.
Since it’s made up of the fluffiest part of the bulb, Pima cotton is soft to the touch. Although it is not silk, it has a silky smooth against the skin. Pima cotton originated in Peru, but it gained its name after the Pima Indians, who helped raise the cotton in the United States. Today, Pima cotton is only grown in Peru, Australia, and the United States. Since the name “Pima” also has been applied to extra-long-staple cotton growing in countries such as Peru, Australia, the name “American Pima” is occasionally used to clarify the origin.
With good demand for Pima cotton’s stronger, softer fibers, the price for the rare premium quality fibers is on the high side. However, some shoppers feel the better durability with the superb softness justify for the higher price tags.
The biggest challenge with Pima cotton is not the high price tags. Unfortunately, imitation Pima cotton products have saturated the market. Many of them are Pima cotton blend with only a low percentage of Pima cotton.
Characteristics
Pima cotton fibers are longer and stronger than other types of cotton. They are also finer and softer than other varieties of cotton. The fibers are about twice as strong as regular cotton and can be woven into a fabric that is more durable and luxurious.
Benefits
Pima cotton is famous for its softness, strength, and durability. It is also resistant to pilling, shrinking, and fading. It is also hypoallergenic and breathable, making it a great choice for people with sensitive skin.
About Egyptian Cotton
What is Egyptian Cotton?
Egyptian cotton is a type of cotton that is grown exclusively in the Nile Delta region of Egypt. It is a type of extra-long staple (ELS) cotton that has a much longer fiber than other kinds of cotton, allowing it to produce a more luxurious and softer fabric.
Egyptian cotton has a reputation for high-quality cotton products. However, only a smaller percentage of Egyptian cotton produced each year is extra-long-staple cotton. The majority of Egyptian production is a long-staple cotton variety called Giza 86.
In the last half of the 19th century, cotton production in Egypt grew dramatically because of the expansion of irrigation and increased demand because of the United States civil war. Egyptian cotton has been important ever since. Since Egypt produces cotton with a variety of fiber lengths, the terms “Egyptian long-staple” and Egyptian extra-long staple” are sometimes used
Egyptian cotton is grown in Egypt along the Nile River. It’s a luxurious choice with a high price tag. Many companies may blend Egyptian cotton with other inferior fabrics to make them more affordable. To enjoy true Egyptian cotton products, it is recommended to shop from reputable brands or certified products.
Egyptian cotton is handpicked to minimize stress on the fibers. As a result, the fibers are straight and intact. Egyptian cotton’s long fibers are stronger and softer. Since Egyptian cotton fibers are finer threads, one can weave more fibers into each square inch to produce a finer and more consistent finish. The end product is a softer and more flexible fabric.
Characteristics
People know Egyptian cotton for its long, strong, and silky fibers. It is an ideal fabric for bedding and other items that require high breathability. Additionally, it possesses durability and can maintain its color and shape even after multiple washes.
Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
Quality
In terms of quality, both Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton are premium cotton materials. Pima cotton is popular for its softness and exceptional strength, while Egyptian cotton is popular for its luxurious feel and superior durability. There is no clear winner when it comes to quality, as both are top-quality materials.
Appearance
When it comes to appearance, Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton have a similar look and feel. Both materials are soft, lightweight, and have a luxurious sheen. However, Pima cotton is slightly more lustrous, while Egyptian cotton is slightly more matte.
Color Retention
When it comes to color retention, Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton both have excellent color retention. Both materials are resistant to fading and will retain their original color for years to come.
Softness
When it comes to softness, Pima cotton is the clear winner. Pima cotton is famous for its exceptional softness, while Egyptian cotton is popular for its superior durability. Pima cotton is also more resistant to pilling, which makes it a better choice for those looking for a softer, more luxurious feel.
Durability
When it comes to durability, Egyptian cotton is the clear winner. Egyptian cotton is known for its superior durability, and its fibers are more resistant to wear and tear. Pima cotton is still a very durable material, but it is not as durable as Egyptian cotton.
Similarities – Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton bed sheets have many similarities. Both materials are considered premium cotton materials, and they both have excellent color retention, softness, and durability.
Differences – Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
The main difference between Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton bed sheets is their durability. Egyptian cotton is known for its superior durability, while Pima cotton is known for its exceptional softness.
Cost – Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
When it comes to cost, Egyptian cotton is usually more expensive than Pima cotton. This is because Egyptian cotton is considered a premium material and is more durable than Pima cotton. However, if you are looking for a softer and more luxurious feel, Pima cotton may be the better choice.
Care For Pima Cotton and Egyptian Cotton Bed Sheets
Washing
When it comes to washing Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton bed sheets, the same rules generally apply. Users should wash both types of cotton in cold water with a mild detergent. Also, they should wash the sheets separately from other fabrics. It is important to avoid using any fabric softeners or bleach since this can damage the fabric. After washing, it is important to dry the sheets on a low heat setting and to avoid over-drying.
Drying
When drying Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton bed sheets, it is important to use a low heat setting to avoid over-drying the fabric. Over-drying can cause the fabric to become brittle and can cause it to shrink. It is also important to avoid drying the sheets in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fabric to fade.
Ironing
Ironing Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton bed sheets is not necessary and are not recommended. If you do need to iron the sheets, it is important to use a low heat setting and to avoid over-ironing. Over-ironing can cause the fabric to become brittle and can cause it to shrink. It is also important to avoid ironing the sheets in direct sunlight, as this can cause the fabric to fade.
Alternatives
When it comes to selecting premium cotton materials, there are several alternatives to Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton. These alternatives offer a range of benefits and drawbacks. Buyers should consider them when making a decision.
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is grown without the use of pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, making it a more environmentally friendly option. It is also softer and more durable than conventional cotton. However, organic cotton can be more expensive and may not be as widely available as Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton.
Bamboo Cotton
Bamboo cotton is a blend of bamboo fibers and cotton. It is known for its softness and breathability, making it a great option for people with sensitive skin. It is also hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to bacteria and odors. However, bamboo cotton is not as durable as Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton.
Modal Cotton
Modal cotton is a blend of modal fibers and cotton. It is known for its softness and breathability, making it a great option for people with sensitive skin. It is also hypoallergenic and naturally resistant to bacteria and odors. However, modal cotton is not as durable as Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton.
Supima Cotton
Supima cotton is a type of Pima cotton that is grown in the United States. It is known for its superior quality and softness, making it a great option for people looking for a luxurious bed sheet. However, Supima cotton can be more expensive than other types of cotton.
Linen
Linen is a natural fiber made from the flax plant. It is known for its breathability and durability, making it a great choice for people looking for a long-lasting bed sheet. However, linen can be more expensive than other types of cotton and may require more care.
Summary – Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton are two of the most popular cotton bed sheets. Both are high-quality fabrics that offer superior softness, durability, and color retention. Pima cotton is a type of extra-long staple cotton grown in the United States, Australia, and Peru. It is very soft and lightweight and is highly resistant to pilling. Egyptian cotton is a type of long-staple cotton grown in Egypt. It is famous for its superior strength and breathability and is also highly resistant to pilling.
When comparing Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton, there are a few key differences to consider. Pima cotton is softer than Egyptian cotton and is lightweight, while Egyptian cotton is stronger and more breathable. Pima cotton is also more expensive than Egyptian cotton. In terms of care, both types of cotton should be washed in cold water, dried on low heat, and ironed on low heat.
Recommendations – Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
When choosing premium cotton bed sheets, Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton are both great options. Pima cotton is softer and lighter, while Egyptian cotton is stronger and more breathable. However, Pima cotton is more expensive than Egyptian cotton, and individual preferences will ultimately dictate the choice between the two. Both fabrics have high thread-count and are durable, comfortable, and get softer with age.
It is important to be cautious when shopping for Egyptian cotton sheets, as many are blended with inferior materials. Pima cotton sheets are also gaining popularity and offer similar benefits with slightly more durability and silkiness. When purchasing, it is recommended to look for certified products from reputable companies.
For more information and tips, please check out our articles on how to select bed sheets and how to choose the color of your bed sheets.
Pima Cotton Bed Sheets – Top Recommendations
| Thread Count | Item Descriptions | Key Trait | Color / Sizes | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 600 | Peru Pima Extra-Long-Staple Pima Cotton | Oeko-Tex Certified | Various | Check |
| 500 | Pinzo Pima Cotton | Oeko-Tex Certified | Various | Check |
| 415 | Peru Pima Extra-Long-Staple Pima Cotton | Oeko-Tex Certified | Various | Check |
Oeko-Tex Certified 600 Thread Count Pima Cotton Sheet Set
Peru Pima 4-pc Extra-Long-Staple Pima Cotton Sateen Sheet Set, Deep Pocket
Peru Pima extra-long-staple cotton sheet set provides softness and durability. The 4–pc percale sheet set has a 4.3 rating from more than 150 reviews. The Oeko-Tex certification ensures the product is manufactured environmentally friendly and tested for harmful substances. The 4-pc set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The full elastic on the fitted sheet accommodates mattresses up to 15 inches. The collection is available for various mattress sizes in 4 different colors.
What people liked about the product:
- Well made, comfortable
- Great for all season
- Crisp, soft, cool sheets
Oeko-Tex Certified 500 Thread Count Pima Cotton Sheet Set
PInzo 4-pc Queen Pima Cotton Sateen Sheet Set, Deep Pocket
Pinzo’s 4-pc sheet set has a rating of 4.2 from more than 900 reviews. Its 500 thread-count sateen weave provides silkiness and durability that people look for in Pima cotton products. Produced in OEKO-TEX Standard 100 process, the product meets high environmental standards. The 4-pc set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The full elastic on the fitted sheet accommodates mattresses up to 15 inches. The collection is available for various mattress sizes in 14 combinations of solid and stripe colors.
What people liked about the product:
- Soft and durable
- Comfortable and cool
- Great sheets at an excellent price
Oeko-Tex Certified 415 Thread Count Peruvian Pima Cotton Sheet Set
Peru Pima 4-pc Extra-Long-Staple Pima Cotton Percale Sheet Set, Deep Pocket
Peru Pima extra-long-staple cotton sheet set provides softness and durability. The 4–pc percale sheet set has a 4.3 rating from more than 1400 reviews. The Oeko-Tex certification ensures the product is environmentally friendly and without harmful substances. The 4-pc set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The full elastic on the fitted sheet accommodates mattresses up to 15 inches. The collection is available for various mattress sizes in 14 combinations of solid and stripe colors.
What people liked about the product:
- Great percale, medium weight
- Crisp, delightful to sleep in year after year
- Cool, soft, and comfortable
Egyptian Cotton Sheets – Top Recommendations
| Thread Count | Item Descriptions | Key Trait | Color / Sizes | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1000 | Thread Spread long-staple Egyptian cotton | Oeko-Tex Certified | Various | Check |
| 600 | Kemberly Home long-staple Egyptian cotton | Oeko-Tex Certified | Various | Check |
| 400 | Pure Prima CEA Certified Egyptian cotton | CEA Certified | Various | Check |
| 400 | MyGiza long-staple Giza Egyptian cotton | Giza Cotton | Various | Check |
Oeko-Tex Certified 1000 Thread Count Single Ply Long Staple Egyptian Cotton
Thread Spread 4-pc Single Ply, Long Staple Egyptian Cotton Sateen Weave Sheet Set, Deep Pocket
This top-selling long-staple Egyptian cotton sheet set has a 4.2 rating from more than 17600 reviews. Its STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex certification provides the quality assurance that it is eco-friendly and harmless for human health. The single-ply sateen weave offers a luxurious silky feel. The deep pocket fitted sheet’s top-quality elastic accommodates mattresses up to 18 inches. The 4pc sheet set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The collection is also available in more than 20 colors and various mattress sizes.
What people liked about the product:
- Great sheets at a super price
- Sheets are not too cold, not too hot
- good weight but not scratchy
Oeko-Tex Certified 600 Thread Count Long Staple Egyptian Cot
Kemberly Home 4-pc Long Staple Egyptian Cotton Sateen Weave Sheet Set, Deep Pocket
This sheet set offers the quality and durability of hotel sheets and crisp pillowcases. The 4.5 rating from more than 390 reviews makes this one of the popular sheet set in its category. With STANDARD 100 by Oeko-Tex certification, this product is environmentally friendly and without harmful substances. The fade-resistant 4pc set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The all-around elastic on the fitted sheet accommodates mattresses up to 16 inches. The collection is available in 11 colors and various mattress sizes.
What people liked about the product:
- Soft and luxurious
- Super soft and comfortable
- High quality product and great value
CEA Certified 400 Thread Count Egyptian Cotton, Double Hem-Stitched
Pure Parima 4-pc Certified Egyptian Cotton Sateen Weave Sheet Set
The pure, CEA certified 100% Egyptian Cotton sheet set has a rating of 4.6 from more than 80 reviews. The premium sateen weave gives this 400-thread count sheet a silky-smooth feel. The sheets are soft, breathable, and offer all-night cool comfort. This set includes one fitted sheet, one flat sheet, and two matching pillowcases. It is available in 9 colors and various mattress sizes.
What people liked about the product:
- Certified Egyptian cotton
- Soft and comfy
- Well worth the investment
400 Thread Count Giza Egyptian Cotton Sheets
MyGiza Sheets 4pc Long Staple Giza Egyptian Cotton Sateen Weave Sheet Set, Deep Pocket
With a 4.6 rating from 150 reviews, the 100% long-staple Giza cotton fabric makes it ultra-soft, breathable, and stain-resistant. Its sateen weave and the 400 thread count structure give provides a luxurious finish. The 4pc sheet set includes one flat sheet, one fitted sheet, and two pillowcases. The fitted sheet’s fully enclosed elastic hems accommodate mattresses up 18 inches deep. It is available in 7 colors and various mattress sizes.
What people liked about the product:
- Soft and comfortable
- Great temperature control
- Quality at great value
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