Extra-Long Staple Cottons
Supima and Egyptian cottons fall under the genre of extra-long staple (ELS) cottons that are grown in specific regions of the world. ELS cotton differs from other types of cottons in that it's stronger and longer--individual threads used in various textiles are 3/8 inch or longer, as defined by U.S. standards. ELS cottons are more absorbent, yielding vibrant colors that are more fade-resistant than other types of cottons.
Egyptian Cotton
If cotton is grown in Egypt, it's Egyptian cotton--but not necessarily ELS cotton. ELS cotton from Egypt is indeed some of the finest and strongest cotton in the world. However, it's important to make the distinction between cotton that's simply ",from Egypt", and cotton that can call itself ELS cotton. Egyptian ELS cotton accounts for 40 percent of the country's exported cottons.
Read Labels Carefully
When you're choosing linens, make sure that you're getting the real thing. Sheets, towels and other textiles can be made from Pima cotton and other cotton blends. But only items made from 100 percent U.S. Pima cotton will use the ",Supima", trademark on their labels. Similar warnings apply when shopping for Egyptian cotton textiles. To make sure you're purchasing sheets or towels that are made of ELS cotton, look for the Egyptian Cotton logo on the label: a white cotton plant inside a dark pyramid shape.
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