What Is Jersey Cotton? - the Characteristics and Benefits of This Bedding Material

Cotton is one of the most popular choices for sheets, but did you know that there are also many variations of cotton bedding? Jersey cotton is one of those and is generally considered a premier variation. So what is jersey cotton, and why is it so highly regarded? In this article, we'll explore the characteristics and benefits of this luxurious bedding material and tell you all you need to know about jersey cotton to help you make an informed decision.

What Is Jersey Cotton?

Jersey cotton is a type of cotton fabric that is created from cotton yarns by applying a special knitting technique called jersey knit. The jersey knit is made using a knitting machine with needles in a single row. Yarn is fed into the machine, and the needles create interlocking loops, forming rows and columns of knit stitches, which results in a fabric that has a unique texture and characteristics. Due to the properties of the technique, jersey cotton is considered one of the most luxurious types of cotton fabric.  

The Origin of the Name

Jersey cotton has nothing to do with jerseys, the sportswear, or New Jersey, the U.S. state (mostly). The origin of the name stems from the English island of Jersey, located near the coast of France, because it is believed that this knitting technique was developed there in the Middle Ages. At that time, the knitting method was primarily used to create woollen clothes for the inhabitants of the island. 

During the 20th century, this technique gained global popularity as an advanced method for creating high-quality bedding and clothes made of cotton. With that, the name stuck: jersey cotton. As a side note, the U.S. state of New Jersey and Jersey City also got their names from the same English island.  

The Unique Properties of Jersey Cotton Sheets

Now that we’ve answered, What is jersey cotton? Let’s talk about the more interesting aspects of this fabric: its properties and how it compares to other bedding materials. But first, we must note that cotton fabric primarily derives its properties from two factors: 1. the processing technique (the jersey knit in our case) and/or 2. the type of cotton plant and fibres used.

For instance, the properties of Egyptian cotton bedding and clothes come from the unique type of cotton plant used, Egyptian cotton; the properties of stonewashed cotton sheets come from the processing technique, stonewashing, where cotton fabric is washed with large stones in industrial machines to loosen the cotton yarns and get a softer fabric.

When it comes to jersey cotton, both the processing technique and the type of cotton fabric come into play to give it its unique properties. The technique is jersey knit, as we explained, but it is also important to note that jersey cotton is made from long-staple cotton fibres - fibres that are longer than 24mm in length. Fabrics made from long-staple cotton fibres are softer, more breathable, and more durable than those made with short-staple cotton. 

7 Advantages of Jersey Cotton Sheets over Other Materials

The combination of the manufacturing process and the special type of cotton fabric results in a truly unique bedding material. Jersey cotton bedsheets are characterised by:

1. Elasticity: One of the main distinguishing features of jersey cotton is elasticity - it is much stretchier than other cotton bedding, even without blending it with synthetic materials. 
2. Softness: The knit and long-stable cotton fibres also allow jersey cotton to be exceptionally soft, even when compared to other types of cotton bedding.
3. Breathability: Good breathability is another characteristic, making jersey cotton bedding suitable for warm weather.
4. Moisture-Wicking Properties: On top of being breathable, jersey cotton is naturally absorbent and moisture-wicking, which is excellent if you tend to sweat while you sleep. 
5. Lightweight but Durable: Jersey cotton bedsheets are lightweight, enhancing comfort and making them suitable for layering. Plus, like other types of cotton fabrics, jersey cotton is also durable and resists wear and tear, extending the lifespan of the garments.
6. Drape: The elasticity allows jersey cotton sheets to drape well, giving them a clean and polished look. 
7. Easy Care: It is easy to wash and maintain, often requiring simple machine washing and drying. On top of that, it is wrinkle-resistant, maintaining a neat appearance with minimal (or no) ironing.

Single-Knit vs. Double-Knit Jersey Cotton

Jersey cotton typically comes in two variations: single-knit and double-knit. Double-knit is essentially double-layered jersey cotton, where the two layers are interlocked during the knitting process. As a result, double-knit jersey is thicker and heavier. Double-knit jersey cotton deals with the only disadvantage of jersey cotton - the insulation.

Namely, because jersey cotton is so lightweight, it is not very insulative, so it is not the ideal fabric for cold weather if you are using it to retain warmth. On the other hand, double-knit jersey cotton is thicker and much more insulative, helping you retain warmth. The drawback to that is that double-knit is less breathable than single-knit. So, if you were to choose bedding for summer, single-knit is the ideal choice, while double-knit is excellent for winter. 

How To Care for Jersey Cotton Bedsheets

Now you know what jersey cotton is and its characteristics, so let’s quickly explain how to make your jersey cotton bedding last longer - and don’t worry, it’s simple. First, machine wash your sheets in cold water with a gentle detergent to preserve the fabric's softness and elasticity. Try to avoid using bleach or fabric softeners, as they can damage the fibres. Tumble dry on a low heat setting or, ideally, hang dry to prevent shrinkage and maintain the fabric's shape. For added longevity, try to wash your sheets separately from rough fabrics like towels and jeans; this will prevent abrasion and pilling.

Where Can You Get Jersey Cotton Bedsheets?

Jersey cotton is a premier type of fabric, so you won’t be able to find jersey cotton bedding just anywhere. You will need to find a specialist bedding store; this is what Manchester Collection is. We sell everything you need for your bedroom, from quilt covers to bedsheets. Our collection of jersey cotton sheets includes high-quality bedsheets in many sizes and colour variations. 

Take your time, browse through our collection, and when you have made your choice, place your order online, and we will ship your new bedsheets right to your doorstep. You can also go to a store near you to feel the fabric between your fingers and make your purchase in person. Whichever option you choose, please contact us if you have any questions or need assistance.