Understanding Cotton: Varieties, Classification, and Quality Tips
Cotton
is one of the most versatile and widely used natural fibers globally. In India,
several world-class cotton varieties and hybrids are cultivated, contributing
to the country's reputation as a major cotton producer. Knowing about these
varieties helps in selecting the right cotton for different textile
applications.
Popular Cotton Varieties and Hybrids in India
India
grows a diverse range of cotton varieties, including
- Suvin,
DCH 32, NHH 44, TCHB 213
- DHB
105, LHH 144, Shresth, LRA 5166
- Anjali,
Surabhi, MCU5, MCU7
- SVPR
2, H 777, HHH 287, HD 123, HD 324
- Aah
1, Abhadita, DHH 11, H6, H8
- G.
Cot DH 7, G. Cot DH 9, RAJ DH 9
- PKV
Hy-2, Khandwa 2, JK Hy-2, Narasimha
Hybrid Cotton Cultivation in India
Hybrid
cotton is popular across various states
- Gujarat: H6, H8, H10
- Karnataka: DCH 32, DHB 105, DHH 11
- Tamil
Nadu: Savita,
TCHB 213, Surya, Sruthi
- Madhya
Pradesh: LAHH
4, JKHy-1, JKHy-2
How is Cotton Classified?
Cotton
classification, or cotton classing, is essential for determining its
quality and suitability. It is based on several fiber characteristics:
- Staple
Length: The
length of the fiber, affecting strength and softness.
- Fiber
Strength: Durability
and resilience.
- Cotton
Maturity: How
fully the cotton fibers have matured.
- Micronaire: A measure of fiber fineness
and maturity.
- Color
Grade: The
natural color of the cotton.
- Color
Reflectance & Yellowness: Indicators
of cleanliness and maturity.
- Trash
Percent Area: The
amount of foreign material in the cotton.
Which Cotton is the Most Costly?
Sea
Island Cotton holds the
reputation as the most expensive cotton in the world due to its superior
quality and rarity. Its color varies from nearly white (American varieties) to
yellowish (Egyptian) and reddish-brown (Chinese), influencing its price and
application.
What GSM of Cotton is Best?
GSM
(grams per square meter) indicates the fabric's weight and thickness:
- Lightweight
(Tees, Summer wear): 160
GSM or less
- Heavyweight
(Winter garments): Over
200 GSM
- All-season
clothing: Between
160 and 200 GSM
Choosing
the right GSM depends on the intended use and comfort level.
Is Organic Cotton Expensive?
Yes,
organic cotton generally costs 20-30% more than conventional cotton due to the
sustainable farming practices involved. According to Intracen, opting for
GOTS-certified organic cotton benefits the environment, supports ethical
production, and offers safer, eco-friendly products.
Why Choose Organic Cotton?
Organic
farming improves soil health, which in turn helps in water conservation.
Organic cotton fields act like sponges, absorbing excess water during floods
and retaining moisture during droughts, making it a sustainable choice for
environmentally conscious consumers.
How to Check Fabric Quality
High-quality fabrics share common standards:
- Fiber
Weave: Tight,
closely woven fibers for durability.
- Color: Even dyeing with consistent
color matching.
- Thread
Count: Higher
thread counts often indicate better quality.
- Finish: Smooth, well-finished edges
and surface.
- Price
& Source: Quality
fabrics are usually priced higher and sourced from reputable suppliers.
- Finished
Product: The
final garment's look and feel reflect the fabric's quality.
Conclusion
Whether you're a textile enthusiast, a manufacturer, or a conscious buyer, understanding cotton's varieties, classification, and quality indicators helps make informed decisions. From choosing the right GSM for your clothing to selecting organic options for sustainability, knowledge empowers you to choose the best cotton suited to your needs.
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