What is Cotton?
5 Things You Didn’t Know About This Textile
Cotton is a natural fiber harvested from the seeds of the cotton plant (genus Gossypium). It is one of the most widely used fibers in the textile industry due to its softness, breathability, and versatility.
1. Plant Origins
Cotton fibers grow in a protective capsule, known as a boll, around the seeds of cotton plants. While there are about 50 cotton species, only 4 are used for their fiber. These plants are cultivated in warm climates around the world, with major producers including the United States, India, China, and Brazil.
2. Cosmic Adventures
In 2019, the Chinese spacecraft Chang’e 4 brought plant seeds to the moon. Among these, cotton seeds were the only ones to germinate, making cotton the first plant to grow on the moon! Although the cotton plant survived only for two weeks, its short-lived success has spurred ongoing scientific research into space exploration and settlement.
3. Absorbency and Strength
Cotton is used to make a wide range of products, including clothing and home textiles. Its fibers are stronger when wet, allowing clothes to tumble in a washing machine without losing their shape. Cotton is also highly absorbent, able to hold up to 27 times its weight in water, which makes it slow to dry and less suitable for sports or outdoor wear.
4. Rolling in Dough
Most banknotes are made using cotton. The US Federal Reserve, for instance, uses a blend of 25% linen and 75% cotton to produce cash. This mixture results in fibers that are strong, flexible, and suitable for printing. A banknote can endure 4,000 double folds, both forwards and backwards, before it tears.
5. Environmental Impact
Cotton cultivation can have significant environmental impacts, such as high water usage, pesticide use, and soil erosion. The World Wildlife Fund (WWF) reports that the production of raw materials for just one pair of cotton jeans can consume up to 29,000 liters of water, contributing to soil degradation. While organic cotton farming practices offer a more sustainable alternative, they still require relatively high water consumption.
About Us
garmentHERE also known as General Orient “GO” has proudly led the apparel export market. Our primary focus extends to the US, Canadian, and European markets, where we have collaborated with numerous high and medium-end brands, including Joie, BCBG, Vince, Elaine Kim, Brochu Walker, Daniel Buchler, Equipment, and many others. Over the span of a decade, our enduring partnerships have not only facilitated our growth but also cultivated lasting friendships with our clients. We prioritize quality, efficiency, and competitive pricing, ensuring your success!
