Cotton can be used to make a number of useful things such as denim for blue jeans, terrycloth for bathroom towels which are highly absorbent materials and much more.  While some materials are thrown away after weaving, spinning and cutting cotton. They can be recovered, recycled and blended with other fabrics such as Rayon and other synthetic fabrics such as polyester. It is also mixed with elastine which is primarily used for jeans and knickers so that it stretches to fit the user.

The major uses for cotton fibre include apparel, home furnishings, and other industrial uses such as medical supplies. At the beginning of the 20^th century to the end of World War 2; 81% of the worlds total fibre consumption was cotton fibre.

Besides traditional uses and as a result of various finishing processes that have been applied to the cotton fibre, cotton is made into special materials suitable for a number of uses. It has been identified that an existing flame retardant can be used on cotton to meet flammability standards. Flame resistant apparel is suitable for professional uses and provides protection against potential risks associated with high temperatures.

Although cotton is a widely used fabric, it is important for individuals in the fashion industry to know and understand its characteristics. An untreated cotton fabric has a matte lustre. It drapes softly and has a smooth hand. The fabric is extremely comfortable to wear and has amazing absorbing qualities. Because cotton wrinkles so easily, many cotton fabrics obtain a wrinkle resistant finish. Unless finished with a durable press finish, cotton fabrics have a tendency to shrink. In terms of care, colour cotton fabrics should be washed in warm water to maintain their colour longer. They should also not be exposed to sunlight for long periods of time because of the risk of yellowing as a result of oxidation.