Advantages of a Cotton Adult Onesie

We are asked what is better a fleece or cotton adult onesie. Many people love cotton sleepwear and our most popular adult onesies are 100% cotton. It’s a product as old as civilisation. It seems to have been used in India and Egypt for at least 5000 years and is probably the most widely used fibre known to man. During the twentieth century cotton usage came under threat from the new synthetics such as rayon, nylon and polyester. However because of its familiarity, its advantages (see below) and keener pricing, cotton has remained popular for clothing and is now often blended with synthetics.

If you have seen cotton fields you will know that it can look like snow has fallen. Cotton grows in soft little bundles called bolls from where we get the cotton fibres. Unsurprisingly, these look like cotton wool. The boll is actually a fruit because it contains the cotton seeds around which there is a protective capsule. Once the crop is harvested, by machine usually in USA but still by hand in developing countries, the bolls go through a “cotton gin” which separates the cotton fibres from the seeds. The fibres are made from approx. 90% cellulose and can be spun into a fine strand. This in turn can be woven or knitted into cotton fabric. Other parts of the cotton plant are put to good use and are used in the production of foods, plastics and in paper products, according to the National Cotton Council of America.

Cotton fabric comes in many different weights, so it’s perfect for a variety of end products including clothing, bags, quilts, sheets, duvet covers, and funzee onesies. Thread count simply refers to how many threads – lengthwise and widthwise – are woven into one square inch of fabric. In broad terms the higher the thread count, the higher the quality of the fabric. The thread count of basic or standard cotton is around 150 – good quality sheets start at 180 thread count.

Cotton, as a natural cellulosic fibre, has a lot of positives over other fabrics:

  • Comfortable & Soft to touch – ideal for undergarments close to the skin
  • Good absorbency – great for towels
  • Retains colour and doesn’t stain easily
  • Prints well
  • It’s breathable – makes it feel cool and comfortable
  • Washes better and cleaner than synthetics
  • Machine-washable and Dry-cleanable – can withstand high heat
  • Good strength – cotton clothing is durable for a natural product, though not as long lasting as fleece.
  • Drapes well and is easy to handle and sew
  • Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant – Being hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant is one of the great advantages of cotton. This is why cotton is the choice for people with allergies or asthma.
  • Environmentally friendly – cotton is biodegradable, and is also a renewable resource.

Before choosing keep in mind there may be disadvantages:

  • Cotton is not wrinkle resistant – may need to be ironed.
  • Cotton can fade in direct sunlight.
  • Cotton dries slowly.
  • Cotton may shrink, but usually only at first wash and usually only by 3-4%.

We have written a separate article about polar fleece and our range offers both fleece and cotton designs. So before purchasing think about when you are likely to use your onesie, and bear in mind: fleece is cheaper, warmer and longer lasting but we suggest a cotton adult onesie is better for sleepwear, better for the planet, and suitable for all climates. The choice is yours.