If you’re thinking about updating the fabrics in your home, take some time to consider cotton. Cotton is one of the most universally used natural or cellulose fibers with 18 percent of the annual crop being used for the home furnishing industry (source NCC). In linens alone, cotton is the most dominant fiber, holding over 60% of the bed linen market (sheets and pillowcases) and almost 100% of the bath linen market (towels and washcloths). Although this fiber has been around since ancient times, it is anything but. Cotton, grown throughout 17 states across the United States, is increasingly popular and well worth taking a look at when it comes time to update our home.
Just like every other home fabric out there, cotton has its pros and cons. Some quick facts about cotton that are worth knowing:
- It’s eco-friendly
- It’s versatile, strong, durable and soft to the touch
- It is absorbent and breathable
- It’s resistant to piling and static electricity
- It can wrinkle easily (but cotton-poly blends solve that problem)
- It is easy to clean but can shrink, stretch and take longer to dry
- It can fade in prolonged sun exposure
- It dyes well and can take prints beautifully
- It’s affordable
Best Uses for Cotton Fabric
Using cotton fabric throughout the home is an easy way to add style and color to the space at an affordable price. In the home, cotton can be used just about anywhere. Some of the best uses for cotton fabric throughout the home however, are rugs, window treatments, bedding, upholstery, wall coverings, linens, and accents like throw pillows.
It’s important to remember that there are different grades of cotton ranging from very basic (yet good) all the way to ultra premium. Thankfully this wide variety of fabrics and weaves means there’s really no reason why you can’t find something that will work perfectly in your space. It doesn’t matter if you want silky, rough, smooth, textured, luxurious, indestructible, sheer or thick you’ll find it with reliable and beautiful cotton.
When you are looking for a fabric store near you in Arlington, stop by our Cutting Corners location in Fort Worth, TX on South Hulen Street for great deals on discount designer fabrics. You will find something for every home interior project from gorgeous drapery fabrics to light weight cottons and luxurious Dupioni Silks.
