Pima cotton is a premium long-staple cotton known for its exceptional softness, strength, and durability. The long fibers produce a smooth, lustrous fabric that resists pilling and grows softer with use. Pima is comparable to Egyptian cotton in quality; both are long-staple cottons, and the main difference is where and which variety is grown.
What makes Pima special
The key to Pima's quality is its staple length, meaning the length of the individual cotton fibers. Pima has long fibers, which can be spun into finer, stronger, smoother yarns with fewer loose ends. That translates into fabric that feels soft and supple, resists pilling and tearing, and holds up beautifully over years of use. Long-staple cottons like Pima are what define genuinely luxurious sheeting and towels.
Pima and Supima
You may also see the name Supima. Supima is a trademarked designation for Pima cotton that is grown in the United States and certified as 100% authentic American Pima. In other words, all Supima is Pima, but it carries an additional guarantee of origin and purity. Both deliver the softness and strength that long-staple cotton is prized for.
How Pima compares to Egyptian cotton
Pima and Egyptian cotton are often mentioned in the same breath because both are long-staple cottons celebrated for luxury. The distinction is largely one of variety and growing region: Egyptian cotton is traditionally grown in the Nile River Valley, while Pima is grown in the American Southwest, Peru, and Australia. Quality in either case depends on the genuine length of the fibers and the care taken in weaving and finishing, so a well-made Pima can rival a well-made Egyptian cotton.
Caring for Pima cotton
Pima is durable and easy to live with. Wash with a gentle, phosphate-free cleanser and avoid chlorine bleach, which weakens fibers over time. Warm or cool water and a moderate dryer setting keep Pima soft and smooth, and like all fine cotton it actually improves with regular laundering, becoming more supple with each wash.
For more on luxury cottons, see what Egyptian cotton is and what Giza cotton is.
This guide was prepared by Fig Linens and Home, a specialist in luxury bedding, bath, and table linens.
