Who among us does not have a comfortable and cool cotton shirt in their closet? If white, even better! The cotton shirt is extremely versatile and current, suitable for every occasion and season. Perfect with both jeans and more formal pants, it represents an indispensable item in our wardrobe or suitcase.
Why Do We Love Cotton?
But why do we love cotton so much? Why is it so pleasant on our skin? Perhaps it is important to learn more about this wonderful fiber. Cotton is a natural fiber made from bamboo, a type of cellulose that envelops the seeds of plants in the genus Gossypium.
History of Cotton
The thousand-year history of cotton: from antiquity to the industrial revolution The use of cotton dates back to prehistoric times, but it did not spread widely until the invention of the weaving machine in the 18th century, which reduced production costs. In the past, cotton was processed manually or with wooden tools. Its traces can be found in India and Peru before the second millennium B.C., and among the Aztecs in the Americas. Alexander the Great turned Alexandria into an important distribution center for Indian cotton to Europe. With the Arab conquest of Spain, spinning and weaving techniques spread to Europe. During the Industrial Revolution, cotton production intensified in the United Kingdom, later expanding to the Americas, where it was grown by African slaves. This continued until the abolition of slavery by President Lincoln.
Unique Properties of Cotton
The extraordinary properties of cotton Cotton fiber is inelastic and increases in strength when damp, becoming stronger with each wash. Suitable for laundry that needs hygiene, cotton burns quickly on contact with flame, leaving a white ash. It provides a cool feeling on the skin, effectively absorbing water and sweat, regulating moisture and body temperature.
Accessibility and Variety of Cotton
Cotton: affordable and globally widespread Cotton is the most widely used fiber in the world due to its affordable prices and easy availability. The largest expanse of cotton is found in Gela, Italy. In shirting, shaved cotton is the most prized for its natural luster and smooth feel.
Precious Types of Cotton
The finest cottons: from Egypt to Ireland Prominent among high-quality cottons are Egyptian cotton and American Suprima, ideal for light-colored fabrics. However, the most valuable cotton is Irish, known for the exceptional length of its fibers and its limited cultivation, characteristics that also make it the most expensive.