While cotton is considered to be the most comfortable natural fabric in the world, linen takes the cake in being considered the most refined and luxurious fabric. There are many who think that linen is just a more superior cotton type, but this is not true. Cotton and linen, though both are natural fabrics, come from different plants. Linen is derived from the flax plant whereas cotton is derived from the cotton plant. This is the key difference between cotton and linen.
What is Linen?
Linen is a beautiful, refined and durable fabric that comes from a plant known as flax. The fibers of flax are one of the strongest natural fibers. In fact, the fabric is so durable that table covers and napkins made of linen last for generations. It is not just durability that linen is known for; it is a fabric that is extremely smooth and has a natural luster that enhances the beauty and elegance of bone china, candles and silver ware used on a dining table. This luster is long lasting and comes from a natural wax content in linen fabric. Natural linen is available in creamy and tan colors though it can be easily dyed in many colors that do not fade even after washing many times.
One disadvantage of linen is its tendency to wrinkle easily; this is why it is not a fabric to be used roughly or daily. Being costly, people keep clothing made of linen for use on ceremonies and functions. Like cotton, linen is highly absorbent and gives a cooling effect when worn in summers.
What is Cotton?
Cotton comes from cotton plant and mankind has known about the versatility of this wonderful fabric since ancient civilizations. Because it is natural, cotton is suitable for all skin types and is therefore grown in all parts of the world. Cotton is not just used for clothing, it is also used for bed sheets, upholstery and curtains. Cotton fibers are separated from the seeds of cotton through a process called combing and are afterward spun to convert into threads that can be both knitted and woven to manufacture fabrics.
Cotton lends itself to be dyed in all sorts of colors to make beautiful fabrics. Cotton is very versatile and can be used to make sub varieties of fabrics such as corduroys, muslins, flannels etc. No wonder that cotton is referred to as fabric of life. Cotton is a must for use for toddlers and infants as they have very sensitive skins.
What is the difference between Cotton and Linen?
Cotton vs Linen |
|
| Cotton is obtained from the cotton plant. | Linen is obtained from the flax plant. |
| Texture | |
| Cotton is not as fine as linen. | Linen is finer and has more texture than cotton |
| Maintenance | |
| Cotton is easier to maintain than linen. | Linen requires more ironing and is more prone to wrinkles than cotton. |
| Price | |
| Cotton is not as expensive as linen. | Linen is more expensive than cotton. |
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