Platinum trusted service award
Table of Contents
Choosing the right bedding should be a joy, not a chore! But with so many options, it's understandable to feel a little lost.
One question that often arises is: How does Egyptian cotton truly stack up against regular cotton?
As experts in crafting quality bedding, we're here to share our insights. From the fibre lengths to the feel and durability, we'll walk you through the key differences between Egyptian and regular cotton so you can make a fully informed decision for a good night's rest.
Egyptian Cotton Vs. Regular Cotton: The Key Differences
Let's delve into the origins, production, and key features that set these two cotton types apart.
Origin and history
To appreciate the differences, it's worth considering the story behind each cotton type:
-
Regular cotton: With roots spanning India, Africa, and the Americas, regular cotton has a rich and varied history. In fact, evidence of its use dates back all the way to approximately 6,000 BC in Peru.
-
Egyptian cotton: This premium cotton traces its lineage to around 2,500 BC, when it was cultivated along the banks of the Nile River. Following the opening of the Suez Canal in 1897, its prominence quickly grew in the Western world's cotton production.
Production
The way in which each type of cotton is produced can impact its texture and longevity:
-
Regular cotton: Typically, regular cotton plants are machine-picked, which can sometimes result in shorter, less robust yarns. However, it's worth noting that in regions like Turkiye, India, China, and Africa, hand-picking is often used, regardless of the cotton variety. This careful approach helps maintain the cotton's inherent quality.
-
Egyptian cotton: Egyptian cotton is almost exclusively handpicked. This meticulous process prevents damage to the long, finer yarns. While handpicking Egyptian cotton is tedious and labour-intensive (reflected in the overall price you pay), the resulting high quality of the fabric is unmatched.
Types of fibres
The length of the cotton fibres is one of the major differences between Egyptian cotton and regular cotton:
-
Regular cotton: Regular cotton fibres, which usually measure between 25 and 30 mm, are typically much shorter than Egyptian varieties, with a thicker diameter. However, regular cotton does come in a few different variations, so the average length of the fibres can also vary.
-
Egyptian cotton: What truly sets Egyptian cotton apart is its extra-long fibres, which usually measure between 38 and 50mm. These extra-long, slender fibres are the secret behind its unmatched durability and silky-smooth feel.
Thread count
Thread count is the measure of the number of vertical and horizontal threads per square inch of fabric, and it can often be an indicator of both softness and breathability.
For instance, while lower thread counts are usually very breathable, they're often rougher on the skin. On the other hand, high thread counts offer softness but not as much breathability.
-
Regular cotton: When it comes to regular cotton bedding, there are plenty of different thread counts to choose from. However, you'll mostly find thread counts ranging between 200 and 400.
-
Egyptian cotton: Egyptian cotton often features higher thread counts, ranging from 300 to 800. The finer, longer fibres allow for a more tightly woven fabric without significantly sacrificing breathability.
Durability
When choosing bedding, durability is a vital consideration, impacting both its resistance to pilling and its overall lifespan.
-
Regular cotton: While known for being fairly durable, regular cotton sheets won't last nearly as long as Egyptian cotton bed linen. Regular cotton is more prone to pilling and can wear out faster, resulting in a lifespan of around two to three years.
-
Egyptian cotton: With proper care, Egyptian cotton bedding can provide exceptional longevity, potentially lasting a decade or more! The robust, long fibres of the cotton are more resilient to frequent washing, ensuring quality and comfort.
Softness
The feel of your sheets can ultimately make or break your comfort and sleep quality.
-
Regular cotton: Standard cotton offers a range of textures, and due to the thicker fibres, some may find it less smooth. However, there are many people who actually prefer this 'rustic' feel, so it often comes down to personal preference.
-
Egyptian cotton: The finer threads of Egyptian cotton give the fabric its silky texture, which feels smooth to the touch. This is why this luxurious form of cotton is a great option for those with sensitive skin.
Cost
Another one of the main differences between normal cotton and Egyptian cotton is the price, with the latter generally representing a higher investment.
-
Regular cotton: Regular cotton offers an accessible option for those looking for quality bed sheets at a more affordable price. With a wide range of choices, you're sure to find 100% cotton sheets to suit your budget.
-
Egyptian cotton: Authentic Egyptian cotton bedding should be seen as an investment. While the initial cost is higher, its exceptional durability significantly extends its lifespan, effectively reducing the cost per use over time.
Breathability
For those in warmer climates or who experience night sweats, breathable bedding with moisture-wicking properties is essential.
-
Regular cotton: Regular cotton doesn't score badly when it comes to breathability. Like most other natural fibres, it's highly absorbent, meaning you can look forward to a comfortable sleep, even if you tend to sweat through the night.
-
Egyptian cotton: Egyptian cotton excels in breathability, making it a preferred choice for warm sleepers. Plus, its natural moisture-wicking properties ensure a dry and comfortable night’s rest.
Washing and care
Before you purchase Egyptian or regular cotton bed sheets, take the time to learn more about the washing and care requirements of each type.
-
Regular cotton: Regular cotton bedding is generally easy to care for. You can machine-wash your bedding on a normal cycle with warm water, using almost any detergent. For drying, either tumble drying or line drying is acceptable, though you might need to iron the sheets to reduce wrinkles.
-
Egyptian cotton: To extend the lifespan of your Egyptian cotton sheets, wash them separately in cool water and use a gentle detergent. While tumble-drying on a low heat is generally possible, air drying is usually the preferred option. Just remember to read the specific instructions provided by the manufacturers.
FAQs
What is Egyptian cotton?
Egyptian cotton is a type of cotton fabric known for its exceptional quality. It's generally considered a premium product due to its superior qualities, which stem from its unique growing conditions and fibre characteristics.
Is Egyptian cotton better than regular cotton?
When choosing between Egyptian and regular cotton, the "better" option generally depends on your priorities and budget.
Egyptian cotton offers superior softness, durability, and breathability due to its extra-long fibres, justifying its higher price. On the other hand, regular cotton is a more affordable, practical choice, offering good quality for everyday use.
What are the other types of cotton varieties?
In addition to regular cotton and pure Egyptian cotton, some of the other types include organic cotton (made from organic cotton plants) and Pima cotton (made from the Gossypium barbadense species).
What are the different types of cotton weaves?
The weave refers to the pattern in which the threads are interlaced. Some of the most common weaves include:
-
Plain weave
-
Twill weave
The weaving style can impact the fabric's breathability and texture, with most Egyptian cotton being woven into either a sateen or percale weave.
How do I know if I'm buying genuine Egyptian cotton?
Unfortunately, there are plenty of manufacturers that try to pass off regular cotton bed sheets as Egyptian cotton. When buying Egyptian cotton, be sure to keep an eye out for the Cotton Egypt Association's (CEA) Official Golden Seal of Authenticity and be wary of prices that seem too good to be true.
Is Egyptian cotton only used for sheets?
No. This versatile material is also used for duvet covers, pillowcases, towels, clothing, and other soft furnishings. Its durability and soft texture make it a great fabric for a variety of different items.
Final Thoughts
By now, you should know some of the main differences between Egyptian and regular cotton, as well as have an idea of which option is more suitable for you. When deciding between the two, consider your texture preferences, budget, and how soft you like your sheets.
While there is no denying that Egyptian cotton bedding offers superior quality, softness and breathability, regular cotton is still a great alternative.
Here at Belledorm, we offer an extensive range of bed linen, including both regular cotton and Egyptian cotton bedding. From pillowcases to duvet covers and everything in between, we've got you covered. Shop our collections online, and feel free to get in touch with our team if you have any questions.
