Organic Cotton vs. Regular Cotton: Key Comparisons

Both organic and regular cotton make for perfectly cozy bedding, but differ in their cultivation, environmental impact, health risks, feel, and cost. Organic cotton is known for being an eco-friendly option that’s gentle on skin, while high-quality regular cotton is soft, durable, and cost-effective. Organic cotton isn’t necessarily better than conventional cotton for bedding, and the best material for your bed depends on your lifestyle and priorities. In this guide, we compare organic cotton versus regular cotton, explain their differences, and outline how to choose the right option for your home.

What Sets Organic Cotton and Regular Cotton Apart

The biggest difference between organic and conventional cotton is the chemicals farmers use during the cultivation process. Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers and doesn’t use genetically modified seeds. Instead, farmers depend on natural strategies to keep cotton plants healthy, such as rotating crops, enriching soil, and using beneficial insects to eat destructive pests. 

Organic Cotton Benefits: 

  • Gentler on sensitive skin 
  • Soft and durable 
  • Naturally breathable like all quality cotton 
  • Can be certified as safe and sustainably produced 

Regular Cotton Benefits: 

  • Cost-effective 
  • Soft and breathable 
  • More style options 
  • Can be certified as free from harmful substances 

Pro Tip: There are differences between materials made from 100% cotton and 100% organic cotton. Only 100% organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides, fertilizers, or genetically modified seeds, while 100% cotton may or may not contain a blend of regular and organic fibers.