Different Types of Cotton: What You’re Really Wearing”
When you shop for t-shirts, “100% cotton” sounds like the gold standard. But not all cotton is created equal. The truth is, there are different types of cotton, and each one affects the feel, durability, softness, and cost of your clothes.
Whether you’re a fabric nerd, a fashion enthusiast, or just someone who wants their tee to last longer and feel better — this guide is for you. Let’s break down what you’re really wearing when you buy cotton.
Regular Cotton (a.k.a. Conventional Cotton)
What it is: The most commonly used cotton type. It’s grown with standard farming methods and usually more affordable.
Feel: Soft, breathable, good for daily wear
Downside: May lose shape faster, prone to shrinkage and fading if not treated
🧺 Common in: Budget tees, fast fashion, everyday basics
Combed Cotton
What it is: This cotton is “combed” to remove short fibers and impurities, leaving behind only the smoothest, longest fibers.
Feel: Ultra-soft, stronger, and less prone to pilling
Why it’s great: It holds print better and feels smoother against the skin
💡 Pro Tip: Most premium t-shirts (including many at Doodleduds) use combed cotton for that comfy, clean finish.
Ringspun Cotton
What it is: Made by continuously twisting and thinning the cotton strands to make them soft and fine
Feel: Soft, durable, and feels more premium than regular cotton
Bonus: Ringspun cotton can be used alone or combined with combed cotton for a double win
🧵 Perfect for: High-quality printed t-shirts, luxury basics
Organic Cotton
What it is: Grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilizers. It’s better for the environment and gentler on the skin.
Feel: Natural, soft, breathable — like regular cotton but purer
Why it’s better: Eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and supports sustainable farming
🌍 Great for: Conscious shoppers, sensitive skin, earth-friendly fashion lovers
Pima Cotton
What it is: One of the softest and strongest cotton types in the world. It has extra-long fibers that resist fraying and fading.
Feel: Buttery-soft, smooth, and slightly silky
Luxury Level: Very high — this is top-shelf cotton
👑 Often used in: Premium t-shirts, upscale brands, long-lasting basics
Egyptian Cotton
What it is: Grown in Egypt’s warm climate, this cotton has long, silky fibers similar to Pima
Feel: Soft, luxurious, and durable
Price Tag: Usually more expensive due to its quality and exclusivity
💤 Popular in: High-end bedding — but also used in luxe tees and shirts
Slub Cotton
What it is: Made with uneven yarns to give the fabric a textured, “lived-in” feel
Look & Feel: Lightweight, casual, slightly rough — but in a fashionable way
Best for: Vintage-style tees, laid-back designs, and layering
🌀 Fashion vibe: Imperfect on purpose — cool, breathable, and artsy
Why It Matters
Understanding cotton types helps you shop smarter. That ₹299 t-shirt and that ₹999 one might both say “100% cotton,” but they’ll feel and last completely differently depending on what kind of cotton they’re made from.
At Doodleduds, we prioritize combed, ringspun, and bio-washed cotton for comfort and durability — because we believe your style should feel as good as it looks.
Quick Cheat Sheet
| Type of Cotton | Softness | Durability | Eco-friendly | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Regular Cotton | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ✖️ | Everyday use |
| Combed Cotton | ★★★★☆ | ★★★★☆ | ✖️ | Premium tees |
| Ringspun Cotton | ★★★★★ | ★★★★☆ | ✖️ | Luxury basics |
| Organic Cotton | ★★★★☆ | ★★★☆☆ | ✅ | Sustainable fashion |
| Pima Cotton | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | Luxury wear |
| Egyptian Cotton | ★★★★★ | ★★★★★ | ✅ | Premium wear |
| Slub Cotton | ★★★☆☆ | ★★☆☆☆ | ✖️ | Casual/vintage looks |
Final Threads
So the next time you browse a t-shirt collection online, take a moment to check what kind of cotton it’s made from. That tiny detail could be the difference between a tee that fades after two washes — and one that stays comfy for years.
Ready to upgrade your wardrobe?
Explore our carefully crafted cotton tees — designed for comfort, made for expression.
