What is brushed cotton? A brief introduction

What is brushed cotton?

Brushed cotton, sometimes referred to as flannelette, is a soft and fuzzy-textured fabric used for various winter-ready clothing and bedding.

Brushed cotton is made by mechanically brushing one side of 100% cotton with a fine brush to raise the fibres and create a soft and fluffy texture. This is known as a raised nap and it creates a breathable, soft, warm fabric.  

The time it takes to nap the fabric depends on the desired thickness and warmth - a thicker and warmer fabric requires further napping to raise the fibres even more. 

Brushed cotton is slightly different to flannelette fabric - which is brushed on both sides for a fuzzier and thicker fabric. 

What is the difference between brushed cotton and flannelette?

Whilst brushed cotton is often referred to as flannelette, there are some differences between the two. We've broken down the differences below in a simple table:

	Brushed cotton	Flannelette
Brushed	One side	Both sides
Thickness	Thinner	Thicker
Softness	Soft	Very soft
Warmth	Warm	Very warm
Durability	Less durable	More durable
Price	Less expensive	More expensive
Most suitable for	Shirts, pyjamas, bed sheets loungewear, baby clothes	Blankets, winter coats

Both are warm fabrics, but they are great for different things. If you're after a more lightweight winter fabric, brushed cotton will be great. If you're looking for a more durable and warmer winter fabric, flannelette will be more suitable. 

What is brushed cotton used for?

Brushed cotton is great for a variety of cold-weather clothing, pyjamas and bedding.

Its one-sided brushed texture helps to trap warmth effectively and keep whoever's wrapped up inside cosy and comfortable. The fabric is also breathable allowing for air circulation to prevent overheating. 

Looking to buy? Check out our full range of brushed cotton fabrics for pyjamas, blankets and cold-weather clothing. 

What is brushed cotton bedding?

When it comes to bedding, brushed cotton is a great choice as it offers the best of both worlds in terms of heat retention and breathability. Brushed cotton bedding is also hypoallergenic, making it great for anyone with skin conditions such as eczema and babies with skin sensitivities. 

If you're looking to make your own bed sheets or quilts, check out our range of brushed cotton bedding fabric, available in 3-metre rolls in varying colours and patterns. 

Is it easy to sew with brushed cotton?

Cotton is one of the easiest fabrics to sew with, and that includes brushed cotton. As is the case with all fabrics, you should take care when sewing to avoid damaging the material. 

What are the advantages of brushed cotton?

The quality and feel of brushed cotton will vary depending on how long it's been brushed for.

✓	X
Incredibly soft and comfortable	Bulky
Warmth	Shrinkage and pilling
Breathable	Can be expensive
Moisture-wicking	Requires good maintenance
Versatility

Is brushed cotton the same as 100% cotton?

There is a difference between brushed cotton and 100% cotton. Brushed cotton can be made from 100% cotton, but can also be a cotton / synthetic blend. Brushed cotton is simply any cotton fabric that has been brushed to raise the fibres and create a soft, napped finish. 

Is brushed cotton eco-friendly? 

Brushed cotton, like all cotton, is generally considered a sustainable eco-friendly fabric. However, you should check the fabric composition as it can sometimes be blended with synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon, which are less good for the planet. 

At Poundametre, we sell a wide range of 100% pure brushed cotton. Check out our range available in 3-metre rolls today.