What is the difference between mercerized and non-mercerized cotton?

Here are some tips which help in building up our knowledge in sourcing textile before carrying out sourcing textile in Vietnam.

Mercerized cotton is a special kind of cotton yarn that is more lustrous than conventional cotton. It is also stronger, takes dye a little more readily, makes the yarn more resistant to mildew and reduces lint. It also may not shrink or lose its shape as much as "regular" cotton.

Mercerized cotton has a higher luster, greater strength, holds more dye, and does not shrink as much when washed as unmercerized cotton. Mercerized cotton yarn is smoother and shinier than unmercerized cotton making it more suitable for garments and fancier items. It also has less tendency to pill or create lint. It reduces the absorbency of the fiber, so unmercerized cotton is preferred for things like hand towels and diaper soakers.

Mercerizing is a process where the raw cotton is put through a sodium hydroxide bath and then an acid bath. It slightly changes the structure of the cotton fiber, making it stronger and more lustrous. It also somewhat pre-shrinks the fiber so the yarn doesn't shrink as much during laundering as regular cotton.