The Benefits of Cotton Bedding
Learn about the benefits of cotton bedding and find out why it’s a great choice for comfort and style.
If you’re searching for some new, high-quality bedding, it’s worth considering cotton.
While it’s sometimes overlooked in favour of luxury materials like linen, cotton is a wonderful bedding material and is frequently used in high-quality bedding items, from pillowcases to sheets to bed covers.
If your curiosity is piqued, read on to learn about the major benefits of cotton bedding and discover how cotton can help you sleep better, comfier and healthier year-round.
What makes cotton different?
With so many options, you might be wondering what sets cotton bedding apart.
The biggest point of difference compared to other sheet and bedding materials is that cotton is made from natural fibres. This means that, like linen, cotton bedding is typically more breathable and moisture-wicking than synthetic alternatives.
On the other hand, cotton bedding can often be a little more insulating than other natural alternatives. Compared to linen, cotton might be a better cold-weather option as its tighter weaves tend to hold onto more warmth.
Another factor that helps cotton stand out is its aesthetic.
Cotton bedding looks crisper and smoother than many other bedding materials — giving that hotel-quality look from the first time you use it. While linen bedding is well-loved for its luxuriously lived-in look, cotton bedding tends to have a neat, polished vibe that is unmatchable from different fabrics.
Temperature regulation
One of the benefits of high-quality cotton bedding is its excellent temperature regulation.
Like many organic materials, cotton fabric is a natural temperature regulator, which makes it perfect for year-round use.
Why cotton is cooler
Cotton bedding is usually much cooler than synthetic alternatives because it effectively transfers heat to the surrounding environment.
This ensures a cooler (and better!) sleep for most people.
- Lighter weave fabrics: Cotton bedding comes in different fabric weaves, from lighter percale weaves to heavier, snug flannelette. Lighter weaves of cotton allow for air circulation, allowing warm air under the sheets to cycle with cool air outside.
- Moisture-wicking properties: Cotton also regulates temperature through its absorbent, moisture-wicking fibres. By absorbing and evaporating body perspiration, cotton bedding helps to keep you cool throughout the night.
Breathability of cotton
Cotton is a naturally breathable material thanks to the porous structure of its fibres. This makes it an ideal material for warm climates and hot sleepers.
For sensitive skin
Cotton bedding is a fantastic option for sensitive skin, thanks to its hypoallergenic qualities, breathability and moisture-wicking properties.
As an organic material, cotton fabric doesn't contain many of the allergens found in synthetic alternatives. Thanks to its breathability and moisture-wicking properties, cotton fabric also helps to inhibit the growth of mould, mildew and dust mites — all of which can cause irritation.
By circulating air and preventing moisture buildup, cotton bedding helps to prevent these common allergens so that you can feel better while you snooze.
Why opt for organic cotton
While cotton bedding is generally less likely to trigger allergies than synthetic bedding, organic cotton fabric is even better in this regard.
Non-organic cotton fabrics often carry residual amounts of the chemicals used to grow and process the cotton plant, which can sometimes irritate skin and eyes.
Organic cotton, on the other hand, is much gentler on sensitive skin. Because it's grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, fertilisers or other harsh chemicals, organic cotton is safer and less likely to trigger unpleasant allergic reactions.
Environmental benefits of organic cotton
Not only is organic cotton bedding healthier and more pleasant to sleep in, but it is also better for the planet.
Conventional cotton farming is a notoriously chemical-heavy process. As a result, it can have widespread negative impacts on ecosystems, animals and people.
For the earth
Unlike conventional cotton farming, organic cotton production doesn't require the heavy use of synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, which pollute and degrade waterways.
Many organic cotton farms also practice crop rotation, which helps to keep soil ecosystems healthier and more biodiverse.
For supply chains
Organic cotton growing practices have helped farming communities around the world through sustainable development and improved the livelihoods of farmers and agricultural workers.
Organisations like GOTS collaborate at all stages of the cotton supply chain, from growing to weaving, to encourage healthier environmental practices, support fair wages and foster better labour standards.
For people
Organic cotton is also much better for the people involved in farming, harvesting and textile production. By avoiding harsh synthetic chemicals in production, organic cotton workers and textile weavers are exposed to far fewer dangerous products.
What's more, organic cotton certification standards often align with fair trade standards and promote supply chain transparency, leading to safer, healthier work and fair pay.
