bómull

Bómull is the Icelandic term for cotton, a natural fiber obtained from the seed hairs of the cotton plant, primarily of the genus Gossypium. The fibers are composed mainly of cellulose and are spun into yarn for fabrics. Cotton fibers vary in length and quality, with long-staple varieties such as Egyptian cotton and Pima valued for softness and strength.

Properties: Cotton is soft, breathable, and highly absorbent, making it suitable for clothing, bedding, and towels. It loses strength when wet but can be quite durable when properly finished. Natural fiber accepts dyes well and is comfortable in a range of climates. Cotton fabrics can wrinkle and shrink if not preshrunk or treated.

Production: Major cotton producers include India, China, the United States, Pakistan, Brazil, and Uzbekistan. Cotton grows best in warm climates with a long frost-free period. The global cotton supply chain includes farming, ginning, spinning, weaving/knitting, and finishing.

History: Cotton cultivation originated independently in the Americas and parts of the Old World, with commercialization growing in the 18th and 19th centuries during the Industrial Revolution. The invention of mechanized spinning and weaving increased cotton production and global trade.

Sustainability and care: Cotton farming has environmental impacts, notably water use and pesticide application; organic cotton is produced without synthetic pesticides. Care guidelines: cotton fabrics are generally machine washable; avoid high heat to prevent shrinkage and color fading; pre-shrinking is common for new cotton textiles.