Egyptian Cotton vs Regular Cotton

There is much debate over whether Egyptian cotton is just marketing hype or whether there is merit to what is sometimes known as the “white gold of Egypt”, and we’re here to sort the fact from fiction and explain just why Egyptian cotton is so special.

Egyptian cotton is grown exclusively in Egypt in the Nile Delta, where the fertile soil and unique climate help the cotton plant Gossypium Barbadense grow slower for longer, producing exceptionally fine fibres, used to make what are considered to be the world's luxurious textiles. Clever irrigation systems that were established thousands of years ago ensure the cotton receives a consistent supply of nutrients from the Nile.

Egyptian cotton is extraordinary - producing extra-long fibres that are smaller in diameter than regular cotton. These longer, finer fibres create super smooth yarns when combed and spun, and therefore super smooth, soft cloth when woven. This results in a beautiful drape and superior hand-feel making your bedding feel truly special.

Bed linen with natural temperature regulating properties such as Egyptian Cotton, have been proven to help you get a better night’s sleep by reducing disturbance during the night from overheating or being too cold, helping you wake up fresh and ready to kick start your day. 

Egyptian cotton is more breathable, moisture-wicking and absorbent than normal cotton, which helps to regulate your body temperature, making it ideal for balmy summer nights, and all year round comfortable sleeping.  This works by drawing away moisture from your skin when you are hot, allowing you to cool down. During cooler months the fabric works with your duvet to trap your body heat, relaying it back to you keeping you cosy and warm all night long.

Egyptian cotton is stronger than regular cotton, therefore longer-lasting. It’s partly thanks to the extra-long fibres that Egyptian cotton plants produce, making yarns tougher yet oh so soft. So while sheets made from Egyptian cotton are slightly more expensive, they will fare much better over time making them a worthwhile investment not only for your wallet, but the planet too. The less we buy, the less we have to replace, and therefore less waste is created.

Great Egyptian cotton bedding is finer, more durable, softer and smoother than regular cotton, making it more luxurious. However, sometimes you can find very cheap Egyptian cotton bedding, but just how premium is this cheaper Egyptian cotton? 

It all depends on how the yarns are spun and woven. Bedding made with ring spun yarns can be cheaper to the consumer, because it’s quicker and less expensive to produce. This is due to the fibres not being aligned or combed during spinning. Combing is an important process as it removes the shorter, rougher fibres, resulting in a smoother yarn and when woven, a smoother cloth. 

When shopping for Egyptian cotton bedding, look out for combed dibres and you’ll be on the right track. Egyptian cotton is also hand picked rather than being collected by machine, meaning that the fibres are straighter and less likely to be broken which also contributes to the softness of the yarns.

While that can be true, multiple factors come into play to make any thread count bed linen feel the way it does, and the origin of the fibres, spinning method and weave have a greater part to play in the hand feel of the cloth. Read our blog here about creating the perfect sleep environment, as not only your choice of great quality cotton has an impact on sleep.  

So, there you have it, the truth behind the difference between Egyptian cotton and regular cotton. Want to update your bedding? Soak&Sleep stocks Egyptian cotton in 200, 400, 600 and 800 thread count in various sizes, shades and designs, so you can complement your bedroom look.