Luxury Bed Sheets & Bedding

In response to the popularity of Egyptian cotton, the United States attempted to grow its own version in the southern part of the nation where the climate is similar to that found along the banks of the Nile. Read on and learn more about this durable imposter.

This species of cotton plant dates back to 4200 BC in Peru, although it was named after the Pima Indians of Arizona who were the first to cultivate it in the United States. Pima cotton is considered to be a superior blend of cotton with a much more extensive weave, which bears some similarity to many forms of Egyptian cotton frequently used in towels and sheets. Towels made from Egyptian cotton particularly are very desirable because they are not only soft but also very absorbent.

Pima cotton, which is also known as Extra Long Staple, Creole and Sea Island cotton, despite its ancient tribal tradition, is a twentieth century development. It became very popular in the early 1900s and is known for its longer threads, although they are still a little shorter than those found in Egyptian cotton. The resulting fabric is dense and soft even though the thread can be woven multiple times. Pima cotton is also very versatile as it has applications in a wide variety of products, including shirts for both men and women and socks. Land’s End and Eddie Bauer sell many products made from Pima cotton including sweaters, which are light to wear and yet very warm.

One of the advantages of Pima cotton is its durability, which occurs because of the thick weave of the cloth. Those who market products made form Pima cotton can honestly claim that they last 50% longer (the products not the marketers) than products made from other forms of cotton. The one disadvantage associated with Pima cotton is the fact that its greater absorbency level makes it easier for stains to form. To prevent this, many retailers now coat the cloth with an anti-stain guard.

Pima cotton has a long and proud history and remains one of the finest cottons available on the market today. So be proud of your sheets and towels made out of this durable fabric. Take care of them and they will take care of you for a long time to come.