Comparing cotton and lyocell
A marketplace shortlist can hold cotton and lyocell at the same time. They are not interchangeable just because both can be cut into apparel.
What cotton contributes
Cotton is filed here as natural cellulose. One reason to open it is broad apparel familiarity. One reason to sample is shrinkage and recovery must be confirmed in sampling.
Cotton pages should be read for construction and weight, not only for the fibre name.
What lyocell contributes
Lyocell is filed here as regenerated cellulose. One reason to open it is useful in modern cellulose programmes. One reason to sample is process claims require documentation.
Lyocell belongs in the shortlist only when its published construction fits the garment.
How to choose without a winner
Keep cotton when works across shirts, dresses, trousers and home textiles is the constraint you cannot drop.
Keep lyocell when useful in modern cellulose programmes matters more. Leave GSM blank if the fabric page does not publish it.
| Cotton | Lyocell | |
|---|---|---|
| Family | natural cellulose | regenerated cellulose |
| Often considered for | shirts, dresses, trousers | shirts, dresses, blouses |
| A strength to test | Broad apparel familiarity | Blends well for summer clothing |
| A watchout | Crease behaviour varies by weave and finish | Process claims require documentation |
Questions
- Is cotton always better than lyocell?
- No. The garment, construction and published weight decide. Reputation is not a spec.