Egyptian cotton is marketed as the most luxurious form of cotton, and bedding made from Egyptian cotton commands high prices. Pima cotton is also a luxurious fiber. There are many similarities and several major differences between the two.

Terminology

Pima cotton is a particular species of the cotton plant. It is a species of extra long staple (ELS) cotton. Egyptian cotton refers to any cotton grown in Egypt. It can be either ELS cotton or long-staple cotton.

Staple

The staple of Pima cotton averages 1.38 to 1.5 inches (35 to 38 mm) in length. The staple of Egyptian Cotton averages 1.26 to 1.5 inches (32 to 38 mm) in length.

Characteristics

The fibers of Pima cotton are longer and silkier than other cotton species. This means they spin into fine and luxurious yarns, which are woven into high-quality fabrics. Egyptian cotton can be ELS cotton, in which case the long and silky fibers are at least as soft as Pima cotton. Some Egyptian cotton, however, is long-staple cotton, which is less soft and generally considered inferior to Pima cotton.

Source

Pima cotton is grown in America (mostly in California), Peru, Israel and Australia. Egyptian cotton is only grown in Egypt.

Harvesting

American Pima cotton is harvested mechanically. Egyptian cotton is handpicked, resulting in less damage to the fibers.

Durability

All ELS cotton fibers are exceptionally strong and durable, so all Pima cotton and some Egyptian cotton offer these characteristics. Egyptian cotton that is not ELS cotton is less durable due to the shorter staple length.

Source:

About Egyptian Cotton

Comparing Cotton Yarns

Pima Cotton Description