What is cotton?
Cotton is a plant fiber extracted from the bolls of the cotton plant, a shrub in the Malvaceae family. When they reach maturity, the bolls open to reveal white, fluffy fibers, commonly known as "cotton". Soft to the touch and appreciated for its breathability, cotton is one of the world's most widely used textile materials, both for clothing and for the production of a variety of essential items (bandages, wadding, etc.).
Where does it come from?
Cotton is grown in many regions with warm, sunny climates, such as Central Asia, India, sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America. The plant requires well-drained soil and an adequate supply of water. Historically, the first traces of cotton use date back several millennia, notably in the Indus Valley and pre-Columbian America, where populations used it to weave clothing. Since the industrial revolution, its cultivation has intensified to meet the world's high demand for textiles.
What does it look like?
The cotton plant is a shrub that can grow from 1 to 2 meters in height. Its lobed leaves and flowers, often white or yellowish in color, develop into fiber-filled capsules. At maturity, the boll splits open, revealing the cotton flakes. After harvesting, either by hand or by machine, the fibers are separated from the seeds (ginning), then cleaned, carded and spun into yarn for use in the textile industry.
What are its main constituents?
- Cellulose: Cotton is mainly composed of cellulose, a natural polymer that gives the fibers their strength and suppleness.
- Hemicelluloses and pectins: Present in smaller quantities, they contribute to fiber structure.
- Waxes and other compounds: Fine plant waxes coat the fibers, giving them a soft feel and facilitating protection against moisture.
What are its potential benefits?
How to use it in practice?
- Clothing and linen: Cotton fabrics are prized for their comfort and ability to evacuate body heat.
- Hygiene and health: Cotton wool, sterile or not, can be used to clean wounds, remove make-up or apply dermatological products.
- Decoration and furnishings: Curtains, cushion covers, tablecloths... cotton brightens up and personalizes interiors.
- Technical fabrics: Certain varieties of cotton, such as denim or sailcloth, offer great strength for specific uses.
Are there any precautions or controversies?
- Environmental impact: Growing cotton often requires a lot of water and may involve the use of pesticides. Opting for organic or fair-trade cotton limits damage to the ecosystem and supports more sustainable practices.
- Allergies: Pure allergic reactions to cotton are rare, but some chemical residues used in the manufacturing process can irritate sensitive skin.
- Care: Cotton may shrink after the first wash. We advise you to check the labels and respect the washing temperatures indicated.
Can cotton be recycled?
Yes, cotton can be recycled. Some collection and recycling programs transform textile scraps and used clothing into new yarns or insulation materials. This approach, still in its infancy, helps to reduce waste and promote the circular economy. To encourage this practice, many fashion brands are setting up in-store collection points or supporting more global recycling channels.
