Why is Egyptian cotton the best in the world?
Because of its softness, strength and superior characteristics. The following characteristics are what sets Egyptian cotton apart from other natural fibers:
- The length of the fiber makes it possible to make the finest of yarns without sacrificing the strength of the yarn.
- The strength of the fiber makes fabrics more solid and more resistant to stress.
- Its ability to absorb liquids gives fabrics made of Egyptian cotton deeper, brighter and more resistant colors.
- Its softness feels like nothing else in the world.
- Egyptian cotton is hand picked which guarantees the highest level of purity. Hand picking puts no stress on the fibers - as opposed to mechanical picking - leaving fibers straight and intact.
Fabrics made of Egyptian cotton are softer, finer and last longer than any other cotton in the world. It is often blended with lower grade cottons, so look for 100% Egyptian cotton to get the ultimate in quality*.
* All La Notte bed linens and terry are 100% Egyptian cotton unless otherwise noted. Several of the accessory products are not 100% Egyptian cotton and are clearly marked with their content.
What does the thread count of a sheet mean?
The single most important point a consumer should understand about sheets and the manufacturing process is that the thread count indicates the density of the fabric in your bed linens. This refers to the number of threads per square inch in both directions in the weave. The extra long staple or length of good-quality Egyptian cotton fibers allow for more continuous fiber when creating threads. Egyptian cotton yarns used for sheets, duvet covers and luxury bedding are smaller in diameter yet stronger than other cottons. This smaller yarn diameter means more threads per square inch creating an overall stronger fabric that is the lightest in physical weight of any other cotton. A higher thread count makes a more luxurious and softer fabric
Because they utilized finer yarns using more material, higher thread count sheets tend to be more expensive. However, higher thread count sheets extend the life of the fabric, so you may end up saving money in the long run by replacing your sheets less often.
Resorts and luxury hotels tolerate nothing less than 500 thread count sheets. Not only do guests feel pampered, the sheets hold up well under daily washings. We can finally put sheets with luxuriously high thread counts into hospitality projects.
What does it mean when a sheet set has a "sateen finish"?
Cotton - sateen is named for the satin type weave of this 100% Egyptian cotton fabric. A special weaving process is used to place more lengthwise yarns on the surface of the fabric for a shiny look and very soft feel. Cotton sateen is generally very durable.
Does your cotton really come from Egypt?
Absolutely! Our manufacturer purchases Egyptian Cotton from the delta region of the Nile Valley.
Is 100% Egyptian cotton hypo-allergenic?
Egyptian cotton sheets will provide unprecedented ease and comfort. The soft, tightly woven fibers feel smooth and comfortable, even next to the most sensitive skin. Our durable sheet sets resist stains and require only mild detergents to retain their look and feel.
How will I know whether a towel will dry well?
The soft feel of our true Egyptian cotton towels caress your skin as they dry you off quickly. Less expensive and imitations are created by shaving down terry cloth loops into a kind of velour which does not dry. That's because the tiny loops of fabric do all the work. They pull water off of your skin and onto your towel. The more loops per square inch, the faster you get dry and our towels are free from harsh chemicals so they are gentle on your skin.
What about pilling and lint production?
Our higher grade cotton retains its smooth, silky feeling. The fibers in lower grade cottons breakdown after repeated washings and result in pilling. Excellent grade Egyptian cotton fibers produce far less lint than other cottons, drastically reducing natural pilling or 'surface balling'.
What is down?
Down is the soft fluffy undercoating that traps the body’s naturally warmth. The down grows next to the body of the goose or duck underneath the protective layer of feathers. Each down cluster is made up of thousands of soft fibers radiating in all directions from a central point. It is three dimensional and does not contain a quill shaft. Because of this structure it can loft without matting together. Lofting or filling up space is what creates trapped air and keeps us warm. Synthetic fibers are homogeneous and often mold together and clump. Down clusters allow our natural body heat to keep us warm while allowing moisture to escape, therefore providing a level of comfort that is unsurpassed.
How are feathers used in pillows and bedding?
Feathers provide a protective layer over the down. Feathers are structurally different than down. Feathers are two dimensional and have a shaft. Down provides for greater lofting and insulating value but the structure of feathers provides for a greater support. Feathers still have the soft natural fluffy feeling while having a spring-like quality to provide resilience and support. Feathers are ideal for cushions in upholstery, featherbeds and for those who prefer less firm pillows.
For more information about our Project Management System which helps you order, track and monitor your budget visit our sister site. Find more on hospitality purchasing at Resort ProSource. 
