Long-staple cotton refers to cotton varieties with fibres measuring over 1.125 inches (28.6mm). This category includes premium varieties that produce superior towels.
Staple Length Categories
| Category | Length | Quality |
|---|---|---|
| Short-staple | Under 1" | Basic |
| Medium-staple | 1-1.125" | Standard |
| Long-staple (LS) | 1.125-1.25" | Good |
| Extra-long staple (ELS) | Over 1.25" | Premium |
Why Length Matters
Longer fibres produce: - Smoother yarn: Fewer fibre ends sticking out - Stronger threads: Longer fibres grip each other better - Softer fabric: Smooth surface feels better on skin - Better durability: Strong yarn resists wear - Less pilling: Fewer short fibres to work loose
Premium Long-Staple Varieties
- Egyptian cotton: Extra-long staple (1.5"+)
- Turkish cotton: Long staple
- Pima/Supima: Extra-long staple
- Sea Island cotton: Extremely long (rare, expensive)
vs Short-Staple (Upland)
About 90% of world cotton is short-staple upland cotton - efficient to grow but producing coarser yarn.
Long-staple varieties require specific growing conditions and yield less per acre, which is why they cost more.
In Towel Labels
Quality towels often specify cotton variety: - "Egyptian cotton" = ELS - "Turkish cotton" = LS - "Pima/Supima" = ELS - Just "cotton" = Assume short-staple
Related Terms
- Egyptian cotton - ELS variety
- Turkish cotton - LS variety
- Pima cotton - ELS variety
- Cotton - General