10 Things you didn't know about Supima Cotton

Supima cotton is a superior kind of cotton. It is mainly grown in the United States, especially in California and Arizona. It represents less than one percent of all cotton grown in the world. Supima cotton is unique because of its extra-long fibers that add to its trademark soft feel and unparalleled strength.

The name Supima comes from “Superior” and “Pima”, indicating the high quality of the cotton. It is 100 percent grown in the US, specifically in the San Joaquin Valley California (93 percent), Arizona (3 percent), New Mexico (2 percent), Texas(2 percent).

Here is a list of 10 things you didn’t know about Supima Cotton :

1. Supima Cotton is a brand and not a type of cotton plant. The brand with its associated trademarks is part of the American Supima Association (ASA). The association is in charge of the Supima cotton that meets the specifications of the exact standards. It is also responsible for grading, regulating, and marketing Supima Cotton.

2. The ASA has laid down strict standards and guidelines to prevent any malfunction. Any kind of toxic practice is strictly checked during the manufacturing process. This has made Supima cotton the most environmentally friendly and sustainable.

3. It is an excellent organic alternative to silk. Any garment or accessory which is made from silk can easily be made from Supima Cotton. This virtue is the result of its sheer quality and softness.

4. Supima Cotton has an excellent capacity for colour retention. Even after much wash, the colours don’t fade away. This is because the fibers are so fine that it allows better ability to absorb dyes with long-lasting infiltration.

5. Farmers use laser levelers in the field to maximize the efficient use of water. They optimize the irrigation process and cultivate according to the topography of the region and soil composition. This is why the cultivation of Supima cotton is free from the hazardous effects on soil. Crop rotation is practiced to promote soil health and nutrient level.

6. While ordinary cotton is a staple for daily casual wear, Supima cotton is used in making high-end consumer products like sheets and dresses, and other household textiles. T-Shirts, underwear, pajamas, nightgowns, and bathrobes are some of the common applications of Supima cotton.

7. Supima cotton is known for its wondrous longevity. It is the most long-lasting among all the cotton variants. Just like the colours don’t fade away despite years of washing, you would not find any garment of this material with slight wear and tear even after a decade of use.

8. It is one of the most expensive cotton in the world. The price reflects its unbeatable quality, strength, durability, and comfort. Much care is taken too for the whole process, from cultivation to manufacturing. It costs at least three times more than the normal cotton.

9. Only Egyptian cotton comes closest, almost at par, with the Supima cotton. The difference is in the regions where they are cultivated.

10. The softness of Supima cotton is indifferent to the thread count. Sheets and garments made from Supima cotton are softer and more breathable than any other cotton which depends on the denser threat count for its durability.