Mercerized cotton (also known as "pearl" or pearle' cotton) is produced by a special chemical process that primarily gives cotton fibres a lustrous appearance while strengthening them at the same time. By applying Mercerization process to cotton yarn or fabric under tension which causes the fibre to swell, straighten out and become rounder and smoother, a resultant high lustre (a result of the light reflection off the smooth, round surface) is imparted to the fibre. Not only does Mercerization help the fibre to increase its affinity to dye, but it also improves its resistance to mildew and shrinkage. It is also worth noting that mercerized cotton will take on more water over time, but initially repels water more than unmercerized cotton.

How is mercerized cotton made?

Mercerization is a special chemical treatment that is used to alter the chemical structure of the cotton fibre in order to achieve a lustrous, shiny appearance on the fibre. Mercerized cotton is made by holding cotton yarn or fabric under tension, bathing it in a caustic solution at room temperature, and then neutralizing it with an acid bath. This whole Mercerizing process results in the swelling of the cell wall of the cotton fibre, causing increase in the surface area and reflectance, and thus gaining a lustrous appearance on the fibre. As an added bonus, the acid bath ensures that the cotton fibre/yarn accepts dye more readily, making colours more vibrant and long-lasting. It is also found that cotton with long staple fibre lengths resound best to Mercerization.

What is mercerized cotton used for?

Mercerized cotton, by itself, is commonly used for knitting, crocheting, embroidery, and other craft projects. However, it is also often used to make bed linens and other home fabric accessories that are softer to the touch and more pleasing to the eye because mercerizing gives fabric a smooth, soft and glossy sheen. What’s more, mercerized cotton has many desirable attributes which are ideal for making bed linen fabrics: it is much less likely to pill and shrink, and it is also durable, resistant to mildew and it reduces the rate of colour fade. 

Are mercerized cotton sheets or other products right for my home? 

If you are looking for a set of sheets or home fabric accessories that are very durable, very long-lasting, that feel great when touched, then mercerized cotton is a great choice for you. It is an excellent, low-cost alternative to more expensive fabrics like Egyptian cotton or Pima cotton. This Mercerizing process achieves the same sort of results as Egyptian cotton, while lowering the cost of production, so that consumers can get inexpensive, durable pieces.