Cotton is everywhere—from your comfy T-shirts to your bedsheets—but not all cotton is created equal. With so many blends and synthetic lookalikes in the market, it's easy to get confused when shopping for pure cotton fabric. The good news? You don’t have to be a textile expert to tell the difference.

In this blog, we’ll share five simple yet effective ways to help you identify pure cotton before you make a purchase, whether you're shopping online or at a local store.

1. Feel the Fabric: It Should Be Soft, Not Slippery

One of the quickest ways to spot pure cotton is by touch. Cotton is soft and breathable but has a slightly grainy texture. If the fabric feels too smooth, shiny, or slippery, there’s a good chance it contains polyester or another synthetic fiber. Pure cotton has a matte finish and a natural softness that improves over time.

2. Check for Natural Wrinkles

Cotton wrinkles easily—that's just part of its charm. When you crumple a bit of the fabric in your hand and release it, pure cotton will show visible creases. Synthetic blends, on the other hand, tend to bounce back into shape. This little “wrinkle test” is a quick trick you can try on the spot.

3. Observe How It Absorbs Water

Cotton is highly absorbent. Try sprinkling a few drops of water on the fabric—pure high- quality cotton material will absorb it quickly. If the water beads up or sits on the surface, the fabric may be blended with synthetics.

This trick also gives you a sneak peek into how breathable and sweat-friendly the fabric will be once you start wearing it.

4. Read the Label (and Ask Questions!)

When in doubt, read the product label or fabric description carefully. Reputable sellers will always list fiber content. If you're shopping online, check whether the site clearly mentions “100% cotton” or just “cotton blend.” Don’t hesitate to ask the seller questions—they should be able to explain where and how the fabric is sourced.

Final Thoughts

Knowing how to spot real cotton can save you from investing in fabrics that don’t breathe well, wear out quickly, or feel uncomfortable on the skin. Whether you're sewing your own pieces or buying ready-made items, choosing the right fabric makes a big difference in comfort and durability.

At Rohiyaan, we pride ourselves on offering thoughtfully crafted textiles made with quality and transparency. If you're looking for authentic, breathable, and beautiful fabrics, be sure to explore our cotton fabric collection and shop with confidence.