Cotton Or Soybean Fiber?
When you’re in the market for new bedding, you’ll notice the wide variety of options that are available. How do you choose the right one for your home? Cotton has been the go-to choice for decades, as it’s readily available at most retailers. Soybean fiber is an up-and-coming, eco-friendly option that’s changing the way consumers think about comfort. Both cotton and soybean fiber are soft, breathable and durable materials, however there are key differences that should be noted.
What is Soybean Fiber?
Soybean fiber is the first human invented plant-based protein fiber and is derived from the byproducts of all-natural soybeans. Most plant-based fibers, like soybean fiber, are sustainably produced. To learn more about soybean fiber and how it’s made, check out our previous blog post here.
Benefits
The most notable benefit of soybean fiber is its unique and sustainable production process. It’s made from renewable soybeans and utilizes a production process that recycles excess materials, leaving virtually zero waste. Those who strive to live an eco-friendlier lifestyle will sleep well knowing soybean fiber is made with low environmental impact.
It’s incredibly gentle on skin, hypoallergenic and promotes a healthy sleep environment. It’s moisture wicking capability and breathability hinders the growth of common household irritants like mold, dust, bacteria and mites from growing.
Soybean fiber bedding is soft and has a lofty texture. It provides great insulation and can retain heat, making this a great choice for those who live in cold climates or experience frigid winters.
These are just a few benefits of soybean fiber, check out our previous blog post where we go over the top benefits of this material.
What is Cotton?
Cotton is a staple fiber, meaning it’s made up of fibers that vary in different lengths. Cotton fabric was first invented in 3,000 B.C. It is made of natural fibers and is derived from cotton plants. When spun and woven, cotton is transformed into the durable and soft fabric we are familiar with today.
Benefits
Cotton bedding is durable, fluffy and has a soft to the touch texture that is easy to maintain as most cotton bedding can be machine washed.
It is readily available in a diverse range of colors, styles and prints. Cotton bedding can suit a range of budgets, from affordable standard cotton to luxurious long-staple cotton.
Cotton is breathable and is known for its cool-crisp feeling that makes this material great for hot sleepers.
Key Differences Between Soybean Fiber and Cotton
Soybean fiber and cotton share similarities such as softness and breathability. However, there are key differences that set these two materials a part. While the loftiness of soybean fiber provides insulation and warmth, it is lighter in weight compare to cotton, making this an ideal material for the elderly and those who get cold easily. As fabric, while soybean fiber is a durable material, it does need careful handling. Because cotton has high tensile strength, it provides extra durability that makes it less prone to ripping. Soybean fiber is also gentler on skin, making this a great option for those with sensitive skin and seasonal allergies. It's important to note that there is a difference when comparing soybean fiber and cotton as fabric versus when using these materials as duvet filling. The main differentiator between the two materials is their production process. Soybean fiber is very sustainable since it’s made of tofu and soymilk byproduct. Its production time is also much shorter than cotton since quality cotton needs an adequate amount of time to grow.