Cotton is a popular choice for fabrics, clothing, and beddings. Cotton is soft, comfortable, smooth, breathable, and affordable. However, some 100% cotton sheets can be scratchy and uncomfortable due to low thread count or poor construction. On the other hand, premium cotton provides the solution to this issue. Premium long and extra-long-staple cotton include Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton, and Supima. The stronger, softer, and longer fibers are why these types of cotton offer premium quality that is also durable. However, they are more expensive. This article explains what Egyptian cotton is. Also, the article further compares these three premium cotton for those who are looking for the best cotton.
The International Cotton Advisory Committee, in an attempt to standardize classification, defined extra-long-staple as 1⅜ inches (34.9mm) or longer, and long-staple as 1⅛ to 1 5/16 inches (28.6 to 33.3 mm). The length of traditional cotton fibers is 1.1 inches. The International Cotton Advisory Committee defines long-staple as 1 1/8 to 1 5/16 inches (28.6 to 33.3 mm). It defines an extra-long-staple as 1 3/8 inches (34.9mm) or longer. As mentioned earlier, long-staple cotton fibers are stronger and softer. Expert manufacturers can weave these thinner, stronger fibers in a denser fabric. The end products are finer and last longer. The higher the thread count, the softer they are than traditional cotton products. Some of the bed sheets can have as high as 1000 thread count or even higher.
Egyptian Cotton Overview
Gossypium barbadense is one of several species of cotton. It has been prized since long fibers were developed in the 1800s. Under the International Cotton Advisory Committee classification, most cultivars of Gossypiumbarbadense produce extra-long-staple fibers, but some cultivars qualify as long-staple. Egyptian cotton comes from the species Gossypium Barbadense, which is the same cotton plant that Pima cotton comes from. Egypt produces cotton with a variety of fiber lengths. Therefore, in addition to “Egyptian cotton”, the terms “Egyptian long-staple cotton” and Egyptian extra-long-staple cotton” are also used.
Egyptian cotton is grown in Egypt along the Nile River. It is hand picked to put less 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. Egyptian cotton’s ability to absorb liquids allows it to hold dye like no other fibers. The end product is a softer and more flexible fabric that is brighter and more fade resistant. Such fabric is often used in luxury goods such as clothing and bed linen. Consequently, Egyptian cotton became 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. Check out our reviews on luxury Egyptian linens.
What is Pima Cotton?
Pima cotton comes from Gossypium Barbadense, which is the same plant that Egyptian cotton comes from. Pima cotton was originally known as “American Egyptian”, but eventually the name “Pima” became more popular.
The length of Pima cotton fibers is 1.4 to 2 inches. Resistant to stress, 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.
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.
Similar to Egyptian cotton, 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.
What is Supima Cotton?
In essence, ‘Supima’ means superior Pima. Supima fibers are even stronger, softer, and more durable than Pima. Supima is only manufactured in the United States. Besides, this super luxurious material is highly regulated. The Supima Association is the owner of the Supima trademark. Contrary to Pima cotton, most Supima products are genuinely U.S. Supima cotton. Supima cotton sheets are crisp, cool, and the most luxurious on the market.
While rare, Supima bedding products are available at a premium. They are typically in high-end retail stores and brands. As expected, Supima products are very expensive. In many cases, they are twice the price of Prima products and as much as three times more expensive than regular cotton products.
Pima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Bed Sheets
Since the fibers of Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton are long and fine threads, bed sheets from these materials have high tread-count. Consequently, both Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton bed sheets are durable, comfortable, and soft. These sheets get softer with age.
While Egyptian cotton sheets have the reputation to be the standard of luxury bed sheets, Pima cotton sheets have gained popularity with similar benefits but with slightly more durability and the silkiness from several reputable manufacturers. Check out top recommendations on Pima cotton bed sheets.
Supima Cotton vs Egyptian Cotton Sheets
Due to its rarity and superb quality, Supima bed sheets’ price tags are usually at a premium. Some of them maybe twice as much as Prima products and three times the costs of regular cotton products. However, due to strict regulation, the authenticity of Supima products is almost always verified. This means buyers can enjoy all the benefits from their Supima investments.
While Egyptian cotton sheets have the reputation to be the standard of luxury bed sheets, Supima cotton sheets have received patrons that are willing to pay for the additional benefits.
Summary of Comparisons
Egyptian Cotton
Pima Cotton
Supima Cotton
KeyFeatures
Long and extra-long durable threads
Softer after more use and wash
Durable
Easy to care for
Extra-long durable threads
Softer after more use and wash
Durable
Easy to care for
American Extra-long durable threads
Extremely soft and durable
Strictly regulated and verified for authenticity
Easy to care for
Costs
Typically slightly lower than Supima cotton
Similar or slightly lower than Egyptian cotton
Typically higher than Egyptian cotton
Ease of Care
Straightforward care and maintenance
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions
Mostly straightforward care
Some special textile or dye may require special attention such as water and drying temperature
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions
Some special textile or dye may require special attention such as water and drying temperature
Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions
Conclusion
Our pick for the best cotton sheets is Supima, for two key reasons. First, because of its strict regulations, you’ll know you’re getting best quality sheets. They will have the highest levels of purity with no cheaper fabrics blended in. While splurging on Egyptian cotton sheets might be tempting, the label simply refers to where the fabric was manufactured. It’s much harder to tell the quality of the sheets at first glance.
Second, sheets made with Supima are a great choice if you have allergies or any skin sensitivities, because of their ability to resist mold and dust mites. Your Supima cotton bed sheets will last many years and help you get the sleep you deserve. If applicable, please see our article on Supima cotton bed sheets.
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