To all the people wondering what is the difference between linen and cotton, here is everything that will make it easy for you to distinguish between the two. There are a lot of people who don’t know exactly what the difference is between linen and cotton, which can make sense considering the kind of popularity both these fabrics have. But if you really want to make a choice between the two, you must know the aspects of what is the difference between linen and cotton so that you can make a perfect choice.
What is the difference between linen and cotton?
Here are some popular criteria that will make it easy for you to answer the question of what is the difference between linen and cotton, all in all making it easy for you to make a choice between cotton and linen.
1. Origin
- When it comes to the first point about what is the difference between linen and cotton, understanding their source is important to consider.
- When it comes to linen, it is derived from the flax plant, whereas cotton comes from the cotton plant.
- Both these plants result in the different feel of these fabrics.
- Considering its origin and the process of its procurement, the cost of fabrics can differ.
2. Texture
- The cotton fabric is comparatively smoother and softer.
- Another point for what is the difference between linen and cotton is about how the fabric feels.
- When it comes to linen, the fabric is more textured due to thicker fibres.
- Overall, both these fabrics feel good on the skin; there’s just some difference reflected in the way it feels on the skin.
3. Strength
- Another factor that can make clear what is the difference between linen and cotton is the durability of the two fabrics.
- When it comes to cotton, it is highly smooth and hence can be slightly less strong.
- Whereas linen is highly strong and can pass the test of time comparatively better.
- Yet both these fabrics are durable, just one slightly more than the other.
4. Absorbing quality
- Another great way to mark what is the difference between linen and cotton is related to the absorbency of fabrics.
- When it comes to the absorbance of the fabrics, both these fabrics provide exceptionally good results.
- Linen can absorb and hold 20% of water to its weight.
- Cotton is comparatively more absorbent as it can hold 25% water to its weight and can be considered highly moisture-absorbing.
5. Appearance
- The difference between linen and cotton can be assessed with the appearance of both these fabrics.
- Cotton pills more than linen due to the smoothness of the fabric.
- When it comes to wrinkles, both are naturally derived, hence wrinkles, but linen is slightly more than cotton.
- Further, linen looks more stiffer than cotton even when it comes to appearance.
6. Breathability
- Since both fabrics are naturally procured, both of these have excellent breathable qualities, though there is a slight difference when compared.
- Linen is highly breathable and has exceptionally moisture/sweat-wicking qualities that keep the body cool and dry.
- Cotton, though breathable, doesn’t possess outstanding sweat-wicking qualities.
- This criteria makes it easy to understand the difference between linen and cotton.
7. Maintenance and care
- Though both fabrics are durable, there is a point of difference when it comes to their maintenance.
- Cotton, being less prone to wrinkling and softer, can be machine washed and kept in the desired way.
- For linen, you have to make sure to iron it well before keeping it so that the fabric maintains its grace.
- Both these fabrics are highly versatile and can be used in a number of different ways, such as to make dresses, bedsheets, towels, etc.
8. Types
- While considering what is the difference between linen and cotton, it will help if you know the different types these two fabrics have.
- In linen, you get varieties like damask, plain woven, loosely woven, sheeting, etc.
- In cotton, the popular varieties are satin, muslin, poplin, voile, etc.
- Based on these varieties, you can choose which one suits you and your purpose the best, and you are good to go.
9. Hypoallergenic properties and warmth
- Another factor that might help you find out what the difference is between linen and cotton consists of this.
- Both these fabrics are hypoallergenic and can restrain allergies, but linen, due to its weave, is slightly more likely to prove to be better.
- When it comes to cotton, it definitely does not conduct heat, and linen also has the property to remain cool; hence, both are good for summers.
- These qualities are a must to consider when you are identifying a particular kind of fabric.
10. Sustainability
- Last but definitely not least, what is the difference between linen and cotton? It can be assessed on the basis of the sustainability of both these fabrics.
- Well, assessing the environmental situation is also important when considering a fabric.
- Though both of these are naturally derived, it is said that linen is more sustainable.
- It is considered due to the fact that cotton farming involves a lot of labor and resources.
Conclusion
These are the basics that you should know while considering the question of what is the difference between linen and cotton. Though very similar to each other, these two fabrics definitely have a fair set of differences that I have tried to underline through this article about what is the difference between linen and cotton.
Frequently asked questions
1. Which fabric is best, cotton or linen?
Ans. Both these fabrics have their own sets of pros and cons; it is up to you to decide which one suits you as per your needs and preferences.
2. Is cotton good for summer?
Ans. Definitely, cotton and linen are two of the best fabrics for summer.
3. How does the color or weave of the fabric affect its qualities?
Ans. A fabric can totally vary based on its weave and color; better to look at different weaves, as they can result in different types of that fabric that you might want to look at first.
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