What Is Knitted Cotton? Knitted Cotton vs Pure Cotton Explained
Sullivans International
•5 min read
Cotton fabrics are widely loved for their comfort, breathability, and skin-friendly properties, but many people are confused by terms like knitted cotton and pure cotton. They often look similar, feel similar, and are both labeled as “cotton”—so what’s the real difference?
In this article, we’ll clearly explain what knitted cotton is, what pure cotton means, how they differ in structure and performance, and ultimately which one is better for different needs.
Knitted cotton is a fabric made from cotton yarns formed into interlocking loops using knitting techniques. Instead of a rigid warp-and-weft structure, the yarn bends and connects in a looped structure, similar to sweater knitting but usually much finer.
Knitted cotton is especially popular in garments that require flexibility and comfort, making it ideal for daily wear.
Pure cotton refers to a fabric made from 100% cotton fiber. The term describes the fiber composition, not the fabric structure. Pure cotton fabrics can be woven or knitted, but they are defined by the absence of synthetic fibers.
Pure cotton is often chosen for its natural feel and safety, especially for sensitive skin.
Although they appear similar, knitted cotton and pure cotton differ in fabric logic.
In practice, most knitted cotton fabrics are also pure cotton—but not all pure cotton fabrics are knitted.
The looped construction gives knitted cotton its characteristic elasticity.
This makes knitted cotton more comfortable for active wear and children’s clothing.
Knitted cotton often appears more vivid due to its surface structure.
Pure cotton woven fabrics tend to hold shape better in long-term use.
Fabric quality and finishing play a major role here.
There is no absolute winner—the better choice depends on how the fabric will be used.
In essence, knitted cotton prioritizes comfort, while pure cotton prioritizes stability.
Since both fabrics are cotton-based, their care methods are largely the same:
Shrinkage is natural for cotton, so proper washing is key to maintaining fabric quality.
Knitted cotton and pure cotton are not rivals—they simply serve different purposes. Knitted cotton excels in comfort, elasticity, and wearability, while pure cotton stands out for natural purity and structural reliability.
Understanding the difference between fiber content and fabric construction helps you make better choices when selecting clothing or textiles. When chosen correctly, both fabrics offer the timeless comfort that cotton is known for.
This article is part of our fabric knowledge series, offering practical insights into cotton structures, yarn behavior, and textile performance for buyers, designers, and manufacturers alike.