Egyptian Cotton

What is Egyptian cotton? The scientific name for this variety is Gossypium barbadense and is popularly known as Pima cotton. Egyptian cotton is also known by some other common names like Algodon pais, West Indische katoen, Sea Island cotton, Extra Long Staple and Creole. It's a superior quality cotton and is mostly used by upmarket brands worldwide.

Egyptian Cotton History

The extra long staple cotton was produced in Egypt, henceforth the name 'Egyptian cotton', although the breed is originally an America species. Egyptian cotton was first introduced as cash crop by the Egyptian ruler Mohammad Ali Pasha in the 19th century. He was motivated to do business with cotton trade and Egyptian cotton was no doubt a superior quality that captured the market rapidly. This variety brought considerable profits during the American Civil war as huge exports were carried out from Egypt. Since then Egyptian cotton has been used to make some of the costliest bedroom accessories.

The climatic conditions of Egypt along the River Nile is conducive for its growth. The extra long staple cotton approximately ranges from 1-1/2 inches to 2-1/4 inches, which is double the size of normal cotton fibers. The long length of cotton variety can be spun into very thin and fine yarns. The quality of Egyptian cotton is unmatched. It's soft, smooth, lustrous yet very strong and durable.

Characteristics

The Egyptian cotton logo was patented in the year 2001 in order to distinguish it from other types of cotton. Although Egyptian cotton is sold in other parts of the world, 100% pure cotton products are manufactured only in Egypt. There are certain standards implied by the US government to judge product quality and purity. These are enlisted below.

Texture
Egyptian cotton has a very lustrous texture that makes it different from other cotton varieties. The cotton is very smooth and supple. Premium quality towels, pillow cases, clothing and sheets are made from Egyptian cotton. Egyptian cotton sheet bed linens are ideal for pampering oneself.

Thread Count
Thread count is the measure of thin strands per square inch. The thread count starts from 200, and Egyptian cotton sheets with 200 counts is much superior than other cotton brands. Thread count is the main factor governing the quality. Some of the best quality products have thread counts ranging from 500 to 1500. Moreover, the long size of threads can be efficiently spun to yarns.

Customer Benefits

The price varies according to the desirability. Although the price is comparatively higher than other cotton types, the benefits of this cotton brand renders complete customer satisfaction. Martha Stewart, the renowned designer ranks this brand at top position and she says that the difference can be felt only after use. Investment on these sheets is worth because it is durable and long-lasting. Unlike other cotton varieties, This cotton doesn't degrade after repeated washings. When the bedding is new, cotton is little hard but the softness increases with each laundry. If properly maintained they can even last for a decade. Resorts, luxury hotel and spas prefer pure Egyptian cotton for their bedding and luxuries. Egyptian cotton fabric is resistant to piling as the particular plant species from where the cotton is manufactured doesn't produce much lint.

If you have avid interest to decorate the interior of your rooms then it's a good idea to opt for this cotton. Egyptian cotton bed sheets, curtains, table clothes look extremely exotic. Before purchasing check the quality and the original logo on the product. Egyptian cotton is thus, still known as the 'king' of cotton.