When choosing cotton fabric bedding, "all-cotton Gongduan brushed" and "all-cotton brushed" often confuse people - although they only differ by the two characters "Gongduan", their actual quality and characteristics are significantly different. The following is a detailed analysis of the differences between the two from four dimensions: the essence of the fabric, texture and hand feel, durability and maintenance, and applicable scenarios, to help you accurately select the fabric that suits you.

 

一. Fabric Essence: The Core Differences in Weaving Techniques and Treatment Methods

Although both fabrics are made of pure cotton, there are essential differences in their weaving structures and post-treatment processes, which directly determine the basic characteristics of the fabrics.

 

1. All-cotton satin brushed fabric

It is not ordinary pure cotton, but an upgraded fabric based on "Gongsatin weaving" with "brushed treatment" added.

The weaving process is unique: It adopts the "three up and one down" or "three down and one up" satin weaving method, with the warp and weft yarns interwoven only once every three strands, and the fabric density is much higher than that of ordinary pure cotton. This technique results in very few interlacing points on the fabric surface, and the floating threads of the warp (or weft) yarns are longer, creating a fine texture similar to that of silk.

More refined pretreatment: Before weaving, the yarn undergoes a "mercerization and calendering" treatment - first, the surface fuzz of the yarn is burned off at high temperatures, and then mercerized with chemical reagents to make the fabric smoother, brighter in color, and at the same time enhance elasticity and tightness, making it less prone to deformation.

Higher cost: The special weaving and pretreatment processes, along with the higher yarn usage, make the cost and grade of pure cotton satin brushed higher than those of ordinary pure cotton brushed.

2. All-cotton brushed fabric

It is based on ordinary pure cotton fabric, and its core feature is "post-treatment brushing" rather than special weaving techniques.

The conventional basic fabric: It is woven with common pure cotton methods such as plain weave or twill weave, with a moderate interweaving density of warp and weft, and a structure similar to that of the common pure cotton fabrics in daily life.

The core process is fuzzing: After the fabric is woven, it undergoes mechanical grinding (i.e., "fuzzing/pile grinding" treatment) to form short and dense pile on the fabric surface. These fluff are not produced in a single direction but simultaneously from the warp and weft yarns, which can make the fluff surface flatter and prevent the occurrence of "backflow" and "bare fluff".

The features are more practical: The brushed finish does not change the pure cotton nature of the fabric, but it can enhance the velviness and fluffiness of the hand feel, while increasing the fabric weight (30% to 50% heavier than ordinary pure cotton), taking into account both warmth retention and practicality.

二. Texture and Feel: The difference in warmth and suitability for different seasons

The touch feel of the two fabrics is significantly different, which directly affects the body feel and seasonal compatibility during use.

 

1. All-cotton satin brushed

Touch characteristics: The brushed process combined with the fine base of Gongsatin makes the hand feel closer to cashmere - soft and fine in texture, not rough or irritating to the skin, and can quickly convey warmth when in contact with the skin, giving a close-fitting feeling of "enveloping warmth".

Luster: Due to the floating thread advantage of satin weaving, the fabric surface naturally has a soft reflective effect, similar to the luster of silk, and visually appears more upscale.

Suitable seasons: It has outstanding warmth retention and a close-fitting warmth sensation, making it more suitable for use in autumn and winter. It is especially suitable for people who are afraid of the cold and enjoy the "warm bed" feeling.

2. All-cotton brushed

Touch characteristics: It retains the original softness of pure cotton while adding the velvety feel of brushed texture. The hand feel is fluffy and thick, but it is not as "fine like velvety" as the brushed texture of brocade. Instead, it leans more towards a "solid cotton-like softness".

Luster: The brushed finish creates fine fuzz on the fabric surface, reducing the luster of pure cotton and presenting a softer, matte texture, which visually appears more rustic.

Compatible season: Suitable for all seasons - In winter, the ground down locks in heat and provides extra warmth. When used as a thin quilt in summer, the fluffy fleece surface is breathable and not stuffy, unlike ordinary pure cotton which feels close to the skin and stuffy.

三. Durability and Maintenance: The Differences in the Risk of shedding and the difficulty of Maintenance

The technological characteristics of the two fabrics also lead to differences in durability and maintenance requirements.

 

1. All-cotton satin brushed

Potential issue: Although the grinding process enhances the hand feel, if the selected product has a low count (such as less than 40 counts), the yarn's tightness is insufficient, and the fuzz after grinding may experience slight shedding (especially during the first wash). However, for high-count (60 and above) Gongsatin, the problem of shedding will be significantly reduced due to the finer and tighter yarn.

Maintenance suggestions: For the first wash, it is recommended to wash separately with cold water gently. Avoid washing with rough fabrics (such as denim) to reduce the friction and shedding of lint. When drying, avoid direct sunlight to prevent the fabric from losing its luster.

 

2. All-cotton brushed

Obvious advantages: The base of ordinary pure cotton + short and dense pile structure makes the fabric more stable - the brushed pile is short and firm, and not easy to fall off. Meanwhile, after the pure cotton material undergoes brushing treatment, the fiber structure becomes more compact and is less likely to fade or pill (it can still maintain a good condition after normal use for 1 to 2 years).

Maintenance suggestions: The maintenance threshold is low. It can be machine washed (select "Gentle mode"), and the water temperature should not exceed 30℃. No special care is required. After daily washing and drying, it can maintain its original velvety feel and softness.

 

四. Applicable Scenarios and Target Groups: Demand-oriented selection suggestions

The core differences between the two fabrics determine that they are suitable for different groups of people and scenarios with various needs.

 

1. All-cotton satin brushed

Applicable scenarios: Mainly for autumn and winter bedding, such as autumn and winter four-piece sets, thickened quilt covers, and warm bed sheets, etc. It is especially suitable for autumn and winter environments with central heating in the north and no central heating in the south, and can balance warmth and texture.

Suitable for: Consumers who pursue a high-quality life and pay attention to the luster and fine touch of fabrics; People who are afraid of the cold in autumn and winter and prefer a warm and intimate feeling; Users with sufficient budgets who are willing to pay for both "class and warmth".

2. All-cotton brushed

Applicable scenarios: All-year-round bedding. Whether it's a thin quilt in spring, an air-conditioned quilt in summer, or warm bedding in winter, it can be adapted to all of them. It can also be used for children's bedding (soft and non-irritating) and guest bed bedding (durable and easy to maintain).

Suitable for: Consumers who pursue cost performance and hope to use one bed for all four seasons. People who like the original texture of pure cotton and dislike overly luxurious luster; Families with children and pets who need fabrics that are washable and not prone to pilling.

In conclusion, the all-cotton Gongsatin brushed finish is a representative of "high quality + strong warmth retention", suitable for autumn and winter as well as those who pursue texture. All-cotton brushed fabric is a "practical + all-season" choice, suitable for scenarios that emphasize cost-effectiveness and year-round compatibility. When making a purchase, there's no need to worry about "which one is better". Just based on your seasonal needs, budget and hand feel preferences, you can select the right fabric.