Egyptian cotton has long been regarded as one of the world’s most luxurious textiles. But what makes it so special that we’ve created an entire bedding and bath line crafted from this fine fabric? We’re lifting the veil and revealing all the elements that make Egyptian cotton so sought after.

1.

Not Your Average Cotton

Some fabrics marketed as Egyptian cotton actually aren’t. In order for a fabric to be considered Egyptian cotton, it must adhere to a strict set of rules and regulations. In the case of our bedding and sheeting, 100% of it is crafted in Egypt – from the growing to the manufacturing and every step in between.

The Nile River valley is ideal for harvesting cotton, with a temperate climate, rich soil and bright sunshine. Large-scale irrigation from the rippling waters of the Nile River pump cotton with nutrients that help result in longer fibers and an overall softer product. So, while some producers may weave lesser-grade cotton in an Egyptian mill to apply the label, the output won’t have the same desirable traits as pure Egyptian cotton.

2.

It’s in the DNA

Cotton makes up a significant portion of Egypt’s economy, so it’s no wonder production is taken very seriously. In fact, there is a rigorous DNA certification process that any product claiming to be Egyptian cotton must go through in order to prove its authenticity and superior quality.

This process allows inspectors to identify the genetic fingerprint of the cotton to confirm the fiber is the real deal. All Frontgate Egyptian cotton textiles are 100% DNA certified.

3.

Yarn That Sets The Standard

The extra-long staple fiber of Egyptian cotton is the naturally occurring secret ingredient that makes this textile softer than any other in the world. This feature is inherent to cotton indigenous to Egypt and cannot be replicated elsewhere.

To further ensure top-notch softness and quality, an extra step in the manufacturing process is added. The cotton is combed by a machine to remove loose filaments and particles so that it can be spun without any impurities. Uncombed cotton may have irregularities that appear throughout the fabric. Over time these impurities lead to a breakdown in the quality of the material.

4.

Thread Counts, GSM and SPI, Oh My

There’s a lot of special vocabulary surrounding Egyptian cotton that, once deciphered, explains what makes it so great.

Thread count refers to the number of individual horizontal and vertical threads found in one square inch of fabric. The more threads, the softer the fabric. When it comes to Egyptian cotton, no matter the thread count, it will always be smoother than standard cotton.

GSM is grams per square meter, which indicates the weight or thickness of the fabric. A high GSM fabric is plusher than a material with a low GSM. An Egyptian cotton towel with a high GSM will be fluffier and more absorbent.

SPI refers to stitches per inch. On towels or sheets that feature embroidery, the more stitches that make up the design, the more care and quality behind its production — and the longer it will last. The embroidered trim on our Flourished Egyptian Cotton King Duvet Cover is composed of over 227,000 individual stitches(!)

5.

Amenities Galore

So, why Egyptian cotton? What’s in it for you? Only the most luxurious, soft and comforting fabric you’ve yet to experience. It’s a fabric that is breathable and moisture repellent. The purity of the yarn gives it a high sheen for an added dash of opulence. And this all adds up to a more comfortable night’s sleep — or bathing experience — for you.

Is there anything not to love? We don’t think so. Shop our entire collection of 100% Egyptian cotton bedding and bath and see for yourself.