Cotton is the most important natural fiber in the world, used in the production of clothing, textiles, and more. It is valued for its comfort, easy care, and affordability.

1. Cotton used to be harvested by hand, which was a labor-intensive process. However, advancements in technology have led to the creation of machines that significantly ease this task.

2. In addition to yarn, cotton is used to make threads, cotton wool, and even explosives used in the mining industry.

3. The earliest cotton products were found in Mexico. Cotton items were adorned with fur and feathers.

4. One ton of cotton can produce 600-700 pairs of pants.

5. Cotton requires 180-200 days to mature from planting to full harvest readiness. While cotton is a perennial plant (with a lifespan of over 2 years), it is often grown as an annual crop.

6. The English word “cotton“ originated from the Arabic word “qutn,“ which meant cotton. The Russian word “khlopok“ originated from the word “khlop’ya“ which means flakes.

7. Cotton fabrics will shrink during the first wash. Therefore, it is recommended to wash them before sewing.

8. Approximately 95% of cotton’s composition is cellulose.

9. Cotton “breathes,“ allowing air to circulate freely, which is significant in warm climates.

10. Cotton seeds are not waste either – they are used to make flour and oil.

11. The first recorded cotton harvest in the United States occurred in 1556 in Florida.

12. Archaeologists have determined that people began cultivating cotton around 7,000 years ago.

13. Julius Caesar’s army wore cotton clothing.

14. Egyptian cotton is believed to be softer and more durable, making it more expensive than American cotton.

15. Thoughtless cultivation of cotton and excessive water withdrawal for irrigation purposes in Uzbekistan led to desertification of significant territories and the virtual disappearance of the Aral Sea.

16. The Aztecs used cotton as currency.

17. Cotton is used in the production of explosives.

18. In China, where silk dominated, the cotton plant was merely decorative. However, it is known that in the 6th century, the Chinese emperor had a costly and remarkably thin cotton dress (supposedly a gift to the emperor, who knows!).

19. Cotton is not just textile; it is used to make paper money, gunpowder, soap, glycerin, and stearin. Cottonseed oil is added to traditional pilaf, and honey derived from cotton plants is a truly delightful treat!

20. After harvesting, cotton is placed in the sun to dry, which is necessary for separating the fibers from the seeds. The harvesting stage requires significant labor; however, in the most developed countries, harvesting occurs using special mechanical devices. At cotton processing plants (usually located far from plantations), the raw material is broken and combed until a thin strip is formed, with all the fibers arranged parallel to each other.