What is the difference between flannel and cotton?
In daily life, flannel and cotton are two common fabrics, widely used in clothing, household items and other fields. Although they are all natural or blended fabrics, there are significant differences in material, feel, use, etc. This article will compare the differences between flannel and cotton in detail and help readers better understand through structured data.
1. Comparison of materials and structures

| Comparative item | flannel | Cotton cloth |
|---|---|---|
| Main ingredients | Cotton, chemical fiber or blended fabric, with velvet on the surface | Pure cotton or cotton blend, no lint |
| Weaving process | Fuzz is formed through a brushing or sanding process | Plain, twill or satin weave |
| Feel | Soft, thick, with a suede feel | Smooth or slightly rough |
2. Comparison of performance characteristics
| Comparative item | flannel | Cotton cloth |
|---|---|---|
| Warmth | Excellent, suitable for autumn and winter use | Generally, breathability is more prominent |
| Breathability | Medium, fluff may affect breathability | Excellent for summer |
| Hygroscopicity | Better, but inferior to cotton | Extremely strong, absorbs sweat and dries quickly |
| Durability | Easy to pill and needs to be trimmed regularly | Less wrinkle-resistant, but wear-resistant |
3. Comparison of common uses
| Comparative item | flannel | Cotton cloth |
|---|---|---|
| clothing | Pajamas, home clothes, coat linings | T-shirts, shirts, dresses |
| Household items | Blankets, sofa covers, thermal curtains | Sheets, quilt covers, towels |
| Others | dolls, wipes | Medical gauze, canvas bag |
4. Differences between washing and maintenance
When washing flannel, attention should be paid to avoid high temperature and strong rubbing. It is recommended to use neutral detergent and machine wash or hand wash from inside out to maintain the softness of the flannel. Although cotton is washable, it shrinks easily. It is recommended to hand wash it in cold water for the first time to avoid exposure to the sun.
5. Price and market selection
Due to the complicated process, flannel cloth is usually more expensive than ordinary cotton cloth, but functional cotton cloth (such as organic cotton, combed cotton) may be more expensive. Consumers can choose according to seasonal needs: flannel is preferred in winter, while cotton is more suitable in summer.
Summary
Both flannel and cotton have their own advantages, and the choice needs to be based on the usage scenario and personal needs. Flannel is known for its warmth and comfort and is suitable for cold environments; cotton has become the first choice for daily wear due to its breathability and skin-friendly properties. Through the above comparison, I hope it can help you choose fabrics more scientifically.
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