Pros
Luxurious Softness
Egyptian cotton comes with a supreme softness that is made possible by the way the cotton fibers are handled. From the moment the cotton is harvested, great care is made to preserve its quality. Egyptian cotton is handpicked so the long-staple fibers remain intact and do not lose their superior softness and strength. This is a marked improvement compared to the way regular cotton is harvested by machines. They handle the cotton plants roughly, resulting in the fibers being cut mercilessly. This causes them to lose a considerable amount of softness. Egyptian cotton beddings are known for their marvelous softness, making them the preferred material by luxury hotels and resorts, and by people who want to upgrade the feel of their beds to something more lavish. These beddings will also become softer with time, so you will be able to continue enjoying their fantastic qualities as the years go by.
Resistance to Fading
Egyptian cotton is a highly absorbent material, making it extremely receptive to dyeing. The material successfully absorbs bright dyes and keeps the color intact for a long time. Compared to conventional cotton that may fade more quickly over time, Egyptian cotton beddings can be used heavily or frequently for years without the color fading. This means you’ll be able to enjoy the fantastic aesthetics of the beddings for long-term use without the colors or prints fading, even with multiple washings to keep the sheets and pillowcases clean over the years.
Resistance to Pilling and Tearing
Egyptian cotton is made from unbroken, extra-long-staple cotton fibers that retain their strength and durability from the moment they are harvested until they are turned into beddings and other home essentials. This quality also contributes to the fibers maintaining a flexible structure that will easily adapt to the movement of the fabric instead of resisting it, which can result in damage. This flexibility can be seen in the way that Egyptian cotton can resist pilling and tearing. Instead of fighting the friction that the beddings are subjected to, the material exhibits the flexibility needed to be able to prevent pilling even with heavy usage and constant washing. The beddings can be enjoyed for years without signs of pilling that can be seen more easily and quickly in lower-quality products.
Increased Strength and Durability
The extra-long staple fibers of Egyptian cotton remain unbroken from the harvesting until its transformation to a top-quality fabric. This results not only in luxurious softness but also in incredible strength that keeps the material intact through numerous washings and years of use.
Breathable
Egyptian cotton beddings are breathable and promote good ventilation to prevent heat buildup. With air being allowed to move through the fabric, the sheets and pillowcases can maintain comfortably cool surfaces that will protect you from feeling overheated, even with sudden temperature spikes during the night. The highly absorbent material also works to wick away moisture from the surface so your sleep will not be interrupted by a sweaty and sticky sensation.
Cons
Easily Wrinkled
The softness of Egyptian cotton makes it susceptible to wrinkling. This can be an issue when you want your bed to always look smooth and tidy even with continuous use. However, the problem can be solved by ironing.
Expensive
Egyptian cotton beddings are considered the most luxurious cotton sheets and pillowcases – and this luxury comes with a correspondingly high price. Egyptian cotton is more expensive than conventional cotton, which can be an issue for those who prefer the most affordable option available.