Rayon vs. Cotton: What’s the Difference?
Cotton is a natural fiber that comes from the cotton plant, making it a renewable and widely available resource. Rayon, on the other hand, is a semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose, usually wood pulp.
Both rayon and cotton are used in a wide variety of fabrics. But which one is right for you? In this article, we’ll compare rayon and cotton based on:
- How they’re made
- Durability
- Softness
- Absorbency
- Elasticity
- Wrinkling
- Sustainability
- Care
- Cost
It is important to note that not all cottons and rayons are created equal. For example, different types of cotton, like Pima, Egyptian, Upland, and Organic, have different properties. Similarly, rayon comes in different forms, including Viscose, Modal, and Lyocell. We’ll take a look at those differences, too.
What is Rayon?
Rayon is a semi-synthetic fiber. That means it’s manufactured, but it’s made from naturally occurring materials. It is made from cellulose, which is a component of plant cell walls. Wood pulp is the most common source, although rayon can be made from other plants as well.
Origins of rayon
Rayon has been around for a while. Viscose rayon was first developed in 1884. Modal rayon came along in 1951, and lyocell rayon was developed by American Enka in 1972.
How rayon is made
To make rayon, cellulose is extracted from the plant matter and processed into a thick solution. That solution is then forced through small holes called spinnerets, which creates the fibers.
The older methods of making rayon used some pretty harsh chemicals that could be harmful to the environment. Newer methods are designed to avoid some of those chemicals.
What is cotton?
Cotton is a soft, fluffy fiber that grows in a boll, or protective case, around the seeds of the cotton plant. Because it’s almost pure cellulose, cotton is considered a natural fiber.
Evidence suggests that people were cultivating cotton as far back as 3000 B.C. The fiber has been a major crop in the U.S. South since the early 1800s.
How cotton is made
Cotton cultivation involves planting the seeds and then tending the plants as they grow. When the bolls are mature, they’re harvested, and then the cotton fibers are separated from the seeds in a process called ginning.
After ginning, the cotton fibers are spun into yarn and then woven or knitted into fabric.
Environmental concerns
Cotton farming can cause soil erosion and degradation as a result of chemical use. Cotton crops often require large amounts of pesticides and water, and these inputs can have negative impacts on the environment.
Key Property Differences Between Rayon and Cotton
Rayon and cotton both have a lot to offer as fabrics, but they also have significant differences. Here’s a breakdown of the key properties to keep in mind when you’re choosing between the two:
Origin
- Rayon: Semi-synthetic, meaning it’s made from natural materials (typically wood pulp) that have been chemically processed.
- Cotton: A natural fiber that grows from the cotton plant.
Durability
- Rayon: Not as strong as cotton, especially when wet. You’ll need to handle rayon garments with care.
- Cotton: Generally stronger and more durable than rayon, particularly when dry. Higher thread counts also boost its durability.
Softness
- Rayon: Known for its smooth, silky texture.
- Cotton: Soft and fluffy, but the degree of softness can vary depending on the type. For example, Pima and Egyptian cotton are known for their superior softness.
Elasticity
- Rayon: Has low elasticity, usually less than 2-3% for viscose rayon.
- Cotton: Offers moderate elasticity, with a stretch capability of around 3 to 6%.
Absorbency
- Rayon: Highly absorbent, even more so than cotton. This can make it a good choice for clothing worn in hot weather.
- Cotton: Has good absorbency, making it comfortable for everyday wear.
Wrinkling
- Rayon: Tends to be more wrinkle-resistant than cotton.
- Cotton: Wrinkles easily, often requiring ironing to maintain a crisp appearance.
Sustainability
- Rayon: Its sustainability depends heavily on the source of the wood pulp and the production methods used. Some rayon production processes can be environmentally damaging.
- Cotton: Cotton cultivation can have significant environmental impacts, including high water usage and the use of pesticides. Opting for organic cotton is a more sustainable choice.
Care
- Rayon: Often requires special care, such as hand washing or dry cleaning. If machine washing, use a gentle cycle and always air-dry.
- Cotton: Generally easy to care for. Most cotton garments can be machine washed and tumble dried.
Cost
- Rayon: Generally less expensive than cotton, particularly when used as a silk alternative.
- Cotton: Cost varies depending on the type and quality. Pima and Egyptian cotton are typically more expensive than standard cotton.
Uses of rayon and cotton
Both rayon and cotton are used in apparel, home textiles, and even industrial applications. Here’s a look at some of the most common applications for each:
Common uses of rayon
- Fashion apparel, such as dresses, shirts, and linings
- Home textiles, such as bedding and curtains
- Industrial applications
Common uses of cotton
- Fashion apparel, such as t-shirts, jeans, and dresses
- Home textiles, such as towels, sheets, and upholstery
- Medical applications
As you can see, there’s quite a bit of overlap between the two fabrics. The best choice for you will depend on the particular qualities you’re looking for.
Types of Rayon: Viscose, Modal, and Lyocell
Not all rayon is created equal. Here’s a look at the three main types:
Viscose Rayon
Viscose rayon is known for its soft feel and absorbent qualities. However, it’s not the most durable fabric, especially when it gets wet. Viscose is made by dissolving cellulose, usually from wood pulp, and then forcing it through spinnerets to create fibers.
Modal Rayon
Modal rayon is a step up in terms of durability and resistance to shrinkage compared to viscose. It’s still soft and comfortable, but it can withstand more wear and tear.
Lyocell Rayon
Lyocell is often considered the best of both worlds. It’s stronger than both viscose and modal, and it’s also more environmentally friendly. The production process for lyocell is a “closed-loop” system, which means that the chemicals used to dissolve the cellulose are recycled instead of being released into the environment.
Types of Cotton: Pima, Egyptian, Upland, and Organic
Cotton comes in several varieties, each with its own particular characteristics.
Pima Cotton
Pima cotton is known for its extra-long staple length, measuring about 34 millimeters. This gives it a soft feel and makes it extra durable.
Egyptian Cotton
Like Pima cotton, Egyptian cotton has a long staple length, between 30 and 50 millimeters. It’s also known for being soft and durable.
Upland Cotton
Most of the cotton grown around the world, about 90% of it, is upland cotton.
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers. This makes it a more environmentally sound choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rayon good for your skin?
Rayon is generally considered a comfortable fabric against the skin due to its soft texture and good drape. However, some people with sensitive skin may experience irritation or allergic reactions to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process. It’s always a good idea to wash rayon garments before wearing them for the first time.
What is better, rayon or cotton?
Whether rayon or cotton is “better” depends on your needs. Cotton is more durable, easier to care for, and naturally breathable. Rayon is more absorbent, drapes beautifully, and often has a silkier feel. Cotton is better for everyday wear and durability, while rayon is suitable for garments that require a soft, flowing appearance.
Is rayon breathable or not?
Rayon is moderately breathable. It’s more breathable than synthetic fabrics like polyester but less breathable than natural fibers like cotton or linen. Rayon’s breathability allows moisture to evaporate, making it a good choice for warm weather clothing, but it may not be as comfortable as cotton in very hot or humid conditions.
What are the disadvantages of rayon?
Rayon has several disadvantages. It’s weaker than cotton, especially when wet, making it prone to shrinking or stretching. Rayon wrinkles easily, requiring frequent ironing. The manufacturing process can be environmentally damaging due to the chemicals involved, and some types of rayon require dry cleaning, adding to the cost of care.
Closing Thoughts
Rayon and cotton are both popular fabrics, but they have different qualities that make them suitable for different things. Rayon is known for its silky feel and elegant drape, while cotton is prized for its durability and breathability. Rayon tends to be more absorbent than cotton, but it’s also more prone to shrinking and wrinkling.
Choosing between rayon and cotton depends on what you need the fabric to do. Consider the specific properties of each fabric when you’re selecting materials for your sewing projects, clothing, or home textiles.
Finally, don’t forget to think about sustainability. Look into the manufacturing processes and environmental impact of both rayon and cotton before you make a purchase. By being a conscious consumer, you can make a choice that’s good for you and the planet.