The Experience of Pima Cotton
Pima cotton feels like an indulgence in everyday luxury—sumptuously soft yet resilient. It’s the fabric you reach for when comfort meets quality, whether in a finely tailored shirt or ultra-soft sheets.
Its smooth texture and durability give it a refined presence without sacrificing casual ease.
What Is Pima Cotton?
Pima cotton is a premium variety of cotton grown mainly in the southwestern United States, Peru, and Australia. It’s distinguished by its extra-long staple fibers—longer and finer than those of regular cotton. This contributes to a fabric that is softer, stronger, and more resistant to pilling.
The length of the fibers also allows for a smoother yarn and tighter weave, producing a fabric that feels silkier and drapes elegantly.
History and Origin
Named after the Pima tribe of Native Americans who first cultivated the crop in the U.S., Pima cotton has a rich heritage tied to quality agriculture and craftsmanship. It rose to prominence in the early 20th century as an American-grown alternative to Egyptian long-staple cotton.
Common Garments + Notable Brands
Pima cotton is popular in premium T-shirts, dress shirts, underwear, and bedding. Brands recognized for using Pima cotton include:
- Everlane – refined basics with sustainable sourcing
- Theory – elevated shirting and layering pieces
- Frank & Oak – soft, durable everyday essentials
- Reiss – classic tailoring with attention to fabric quality
Pima Cotton Blends and Variants
Pima cotton is often blended with other fibers to add stretch or texture:
- Pima Cotton–Elastane: adds comfortable stretch
- Pima Cotton–Modal: enhances softness and drape
- Pima Cotton–Polyester: increases durability and wrinkle resistance
Daily Care & How to Clean
Pima cotton holds up well with minimal fuss. To extend time between washes without sacrificing freshness, follow these daily care tips:
- Hang garments after use to air out naturally.
- Spot clean minor stains to avoid unnecessary washing.
- Store folded or on breathable hangers to maintain shape.
- Use a refreshing spray or a home dry cleaning system to keep fibers soft and vibrant longer.
Washing & Drying Instructions
Pima cotton withstands machine washing but benefits from gentle handling to preserve its luxurious feel:
- Wash: Use cold or lukewarm water on a gentle cycle. Turn garments inside out to prevent surface wear.
- Detergent: Choose mild detergents.
- Avoid: Steer clear of bleach and fabric softeners, which can degrade the extra-long fibers.
- Drying: Lay flat or hang to dry when possible. If using a dryer, choose a low-heat setting.
Common Issues with Pima Cotton
| Issue | Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Pilling | Surface friction on the fabric | Pima is resistant, but if pilling occurs, use a fabric shaver. Wash inside out to prevent. |
| Shrinking | High heat from washing or drying | Wash cold or lukewarm and dry on low heat. Avoid high temperatures. |
| Wrinkling | Natural property of cotton fibers | Steam or use a warm iron to smooth garments. Remove promptly from the dryer. |
| Color Fading | Washing friction & sun exposure | Turn inside out before washing and avoid prolonged, direct sun when air drying. |
Pima Cotton FAQs
Is Pima cotton better than regular 100% cotton?
Yes, its longer fibers make it softer, stronger, and less prone to pilling.
Can I tumble dry Pima cotton?
You can, but use a low-heat setting to prevent shrinking and preserve softness.
How often should I wash Pima cotton?
Wear garments multiple times between washes if possible. Use home dry cleaning or refreshing sprays to keep items fresh.
Is dry cleaning safe for Pima cotton?
Yes, especially for structured pieces or delicate blends. Home dry cleaning systems offer a gentler alternative to traditional washing.