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Egyptian Cotton

As the name suggests, this fine, lustrous cotton has long and thinner fibers. This cotton fiber is light brown in color and are ideal for making strong yarns. This is the reason why it is one of the most popular types of cotton used for bed sheets, cushion covers, etc.

Sea Island Cotton

Sea Island Cotton happens to be a 'pricey affair' for its growth and processing in the world of cottons. Its long staple and silky texture make it to be used in the finest cotton counts and mixed with silk. So, whenever you notice the label of 'sea island cotton' on shirt, know that the piece might get a little heavy on your pockets. Get some tips on how to grow cotton.

Pima Cotton

The pima cotton belongs to the ELS (extra long staple) types of cotton and is popular for its long, smooth fibers. It has a quality that is comparable to that of the Egyptian cotton. The strength, softness, durability and absorbency of the Pima cotton makes it one one of the popular and finest types of cotton for clothing, towels and sheets.

Asiatic Cotton

India, China and the Near east are the places which are the growers of this kind of cotton. It has coarse and harsh fibers and thus, is suitable for manufacturing products like blankets, filters, coarse clothes, padding materials and the like.

American Upland Cotton

One of the most commonly used types of cotton is the American Upland cotton. It is less expensive and of a basic quality, and is also used to make several types of fabrics. The versatility of the cotton makes it usable for manufacturing expensive shirts and denim. Other Types of Cotton

• Canton Cotton
• Bamboo Cotton
• Cotton Twill
• French Terry Cotton
• Honey Comb Cotton
• Oxford Chambray Cotton

Types of Indian Cotton

India grows all the four major types of cotton -

• G arboretum
• G hirsutum
• G herbaceum
• G barbadense

The first hybrid in the cotton crop was developed in India, in Surat, by Dr C T Patel (H4 intra hirsutum in 1970) - more than 200 varieties and hybrids were evolved in the subsequent five decades. Hybrids occupy around 45% of cotton crop in India, as in 1998. Important landmarks in the Indian cotton history include the development and release of native hybrids like G cot DH 37, G cot DH 9, DDH 2 and drought tolerant straight varieties like SRT 1, Renuka, LRA 5166, Anjali and Rajat.