The cannabis revolution has helped us both economically and medically. The hemp industry has been able to put in practice the old, 18th-century uses of hemp since it was allowed to be grown in certain states. Today we will focus on hemp in the apparel industry.
Many cannabis clothing companies have been registered, selling t-shirts made from medical marijuana or creating new designs using lucidity and hemp-basic fabric. Since hemp entered the clothing market, there has been a constant debate about which fabric is better: hemp or cotton. Let’s get to it!
- Endurance and Comfort
Cotton: There is no doubt that cotton is the most comfortable fabric we have ever known. Cotton gradually becomes softer with each wash, and eventually, we no longer want to wear any other fabric. The fibers of cotton fabric reach their softest stage when they are no longer strong enough to withstand repeated washings. This gives the fabric a rough texture. Yes, it is comfortable, but less durable.
Hemp: Hemp, a strong fiber that is just as natural as cotton, is also a strong and durable material. Although clothes made from hemp fibers are softening with every wash, the process is slower than that of cotton. Hemp clothes are more comfortable than cotton because of the strength and tensility of their fibers.
Hemp is not affected by repeated washings as much as cotton, making it a stronger fabric that offers the same comfort.
- Moisture Wicking Ability
Cotton: If there is one thing that makes cotton superior to any other fabric, it is its breathability. By wicking moisture, cotton eliminates odors from the body. Because of its high breathability, cotton is the best choice for summer.
Hemp: A natural fiber, hemp fabric almost surpass the cotton fabrics in terms of breathability and moisture-wicking. Hemp fabrics have one problem: they can’t resist odors. Let’s not forget that cotton just scored one. Hemp has an additional property that can make it a star.
It has antibacterial qualities which are not available in cotton. This means that cotton can support the growth of molds and fungi. Hemp is more resistant than hemp. This point can also benefit our skin health, so hemp wins!
- Environmental Factors
Cotton:1400 Gallons of Water! This is how much cotton you would need to make one pound. It’s quite a bit! These countries, which are the largest producers of cotton, are losing their freshwater resources and heading towards desertification. Pesticides are required for the production of uninfected cotton fibers, which can pose a risk to our skin. Cotton is an utter failure in preserving the environment.
Hemp: Hemp needs half the water required to make the same amount as cotton. Because hemp grows quickly, it can be used to make fibers much faster than cotton. Hemp produces between 200-250% more fiber per acre than cotton grown on the same land. Hemp is an entirely environment-friendly choice for clothing because it’s self-sustaining.
When you’re asked about hemp vs. cotton, be sure to speak up and highlight the advantages of choosing hemp clothing or accessories! Hemp is a clear winner!
