If your brand is all about quality — especially in everyday essentials like tees, polos, or underwear — chances are you've heard of Pima cotton.
At HEM APPAREL, we work with Pima cotton and Supima® fabrics to help brands elevate their basics. Here's why this fabric is worth considering.
🧵 What is Pima Cotton?
Pima cotton is a type of extra-long staple (ELS) cotton originally grown in Peru and the southwestern U.S.
Compared to regular cotton, it has:
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Longer fibers → smoother and stronger yarn
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Softer handfeel → less irritation on skin
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Better durability → resists pilling and fraying
✅ It’s often used in luxury basics, thanks to its comfort and clean finish
🆚 Pima vs. Regular Cotton
Feature | Regular Cotton | Pima Cotton |
---|---|---|
Fiber Length | Short to medium | Extra-long staple (ELS) |
Softness | Varies (coarse to soft) | ✅ Silky smooth |
Durability | Can pill or wear out | ✅ Stronger, lasts longer |
Price | Lower | ✅ Higher (but worth it) |
🌿 Is Pima Cotton Sustainable?
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Grows with fewer pesticides (especially Peruvian pima)
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Longer lifespan = fewer replacements
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Often hand-picked → less fiber damage, higher quality
✅ Not organic by default — but a good sustainable step up from standard cotton
👕 Best Use Cases
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Premium T-shirts & polos
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Babywear and sensitive-skin clothing
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Luxury sleepwear or casual basics
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Undergarments or fitted wear (smooth against skin)
⚠️ Notes Before You Use
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It’s more expensive than regular cotton — plan pricing carefully
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Requires proper labeling if using Supima® (trademarked U.S. version)
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Not ideal for distressed or raw streetwear aesthetics
🧠 HEM APPAREL’s Tip:
If you're positioning your brand in the mid to high-end basicwear segment, Pima gives a clear tactile upgrade without reinventing your fit or design.
We help brands test GSM, dye absorption, and shrinkage before moving to full production.