Introduction
When talking about top-tier, yet soft and comfortable fabrics, Pima cotton often comes up, especially when discussing clothing. It’s known for its cozy softness, durability, and luxurious feel. But exactly what is Pima cotton? It is a unique and superior type of cotton known for its super-long staple fibers. These are excellent for producing high-quality fabrics that last a long time, making them the perfect choice for luxurious bedding, bath towels, clothing, and, of course, pajamas. Get comfy and learn what Pima cotton is, and why you should choose Pima when shopping for baby and children’s pajamas.
Where is Pima Cotton Grown?
First, let’s deep dive into the origins of Pima cotton. Only about 10% of cotton products sold in stores and online are made of the two premium cotton types—Egyptian and Pima cotton. While authentic Egyptian cotton is known for its luxurious quality, it only originates in the Nile River Valley. Pima cotton grows in Peru and it was named after the Pima Indians, who were the first to cultivate this cotton variety in the United States.
Pima cotton was first introduced to the United States in the early 1900s by a USDA research project aiming to develop superior cotton varieties. Pima thrives in hot, arid climates and is primarily grown in southwestern US states like California, New Mexico, Arizona, and Texas. Growing in these ideal conditions (long growing seasons, minimal rainfall, etc.), Pima can develop its signature extra-long staple fibers. The result? Cotton that is exceptionally soft, strong, and resistant to pilling!
While all cotton is comfortable and known for being soft, Pima cotton is still being set apart from the rest in different key factors:
- One of the most notable aspects of Peruvian Pima cotton is that it’s entirely handpicked. This process, although it’s extremely meticulous, preserves the fibers and results in a finish that is silky smooth. Without mechanically damaging the cotton fibers, the Pima cotton also keeps a softness and quality that regular, not handpicked, cotton can’t reach.
- The location where Pima cotton is grown also contributes to the quality of the fiber and end products you see on the shelves. The northern Peruvian coast of Peru provides an ideal climate for Pima cotton, with its soil and consistent weather.
- This region’s optimal growing conditions result in extra-long fibers, which are twice as long as regular cotton and are only found in Pima cotton. The extra length makes the end fabric softener, more durable, and also highly resistant to pilling.
The rest of the cotton products you can find on the market are made of Upland cotton, which has a coarser texture, doesn’t retain color for as long, and is prone to fading.
Why Choose Pima Cotton for Children's Clothes and Pajamas?
Chemical Free
Pima cotton is an excellent choice for children’s sleepwear due to its hypoallergenic properties and super soft feel. At Sammy + Nat we believe in quality and comfort, which is why our Pima Pajama Collection only stocks pieces that are processed without harsh chemicals, to make sure the fabric remains 100% natural, and in turn doesn’t irritate the baby’s skin. The silky smooth material is another factor that makes Pima cotton the best option for children’s sleepwear. Pima cotton creates a soft feel against the skin and makes it especially beneficial for children who are prone to eczema and other skin conditions, as the minimal friction helps maintain skin’s natural barrier. As always, please consult your doctor as this is not medical advice.
Comfort and Breathability
Pima cotton’s natural ability to breathe also allows air to circulate freely through the fabric. This helps regulate body temperature, which will keep your baby cool and comfortable during the hot summer nights. Since Pima is also incredibly lightweight, it makes for a versatile fabric that can be layered easily with sweaters and jackets during winter, which provides warmth without the fear of your baby overheating.
Durability
Pima cotton’s long fibers also make it super durable. This means that pajamas made of Pima cotton will withstand frequent washing without losing its softness, shape, or print colors. For parents, this durability and longevity mean that Pima cotton pajamas are a practical and worthwhile investment in their child's comfort and well-being. It can last up to 3x longer than other cottons.
Eco-Friendly
Pima cotton is grown using sustainable agricultural practices that minimize impact on the environment. These practices include using less water compared to conventional cotton, promoting soil health, and reducing the need for synthetic fertilizers. Pima cotton's durability means that garments made from this fabric last longer, so they need to be replaced less frequently which contributes to less textile waste. These benefits of Pima cotton make it a responsible choice for parents looking to minimize their ecological footprint while making sure their little ones are dressed their best!
Get some Pima!
In conclusion, Pima cotton stands out as one of the finest cotton varieties in the world. It’s soft, it’s durable and it’s even hypoallergenic. All of that makes it the perfect fabric for children’s pajamas since they’re not only comfortable but also durable and long-lasting.
Pima cotton is not just a fabric, it is a commitment to quality, sustainability and comfort. When shopping for baby and children’s pajamas consider Pima cotton as your go-to material that will provide your baby with everything it needs for a safe and good night’s sleep.
FAQ
What makes Pima cotton different from regular cotton?
Pima cotton differentiates from regular cotton in its extra-long staple fibers, which are two times the length of regular cotton. Pima is also primarily grown in Peru but has been cultivated in the United States. Unlike regular cotton, it is entirely hand-picked, which doesn’t allow for any machine error and makes it perfectly white and silky smooth - perfect for dyes and wearing.
Is Pima cotton breathable?
Yes, Pima cotton is highly breathable. One of our favorite features it has is its ability to circulate air through the fabric, which helps regulate body temperature. This makes it the perfect fabric for sleepwear since temperature regulation is very important for a good night’s sleep.
Is Pima cotton stretchy?
Pima cotton is not stretchy, but it has a natural slight give due to its fiber structure.
Is Pima cotton hypoallergenic?
Yes, Pima cotton is hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin.
How should I care for Pima cotton garments?
Pima cotton garments should be washed in cold water and can be tumble dried on a low setting. They should be removed promptly from the dryer to avoid wrinkles.
Is Pima cotton sustainable?
Pima cotton is often considered more sustainable due to its durability and the fact that it requires fewer chemical treatments than lower-quality cottons.
Where is Pima cotton grown?
Pima cotton is primarily grown in the United States, Peru, and Australia.
Why is Pima cotton more expensive?
The high quality and limited availability of Pima cotton, along with its superior characteristics, contribute to its higher cost compared to regular cotton.
Does Pima cotton shrink?
Like most natural fibers, Pima cotton can shrink slightly, but proper care can minimize this. Always follow care instructions to maintain the size and shape of your garments.
