100% Cotton Lab Coats

Filed under: Lab Coats — john at 6:25 am on Thursday, March 30, 2006

Most lab coats are constructed from tightly woven cotton, cotton/polyester blends or disposable paper cloth. But 100% cotton lab coats are more durable and washable, but if these are non-disposable, these will rarely last more than a year when regularly used.

Even as lab coats are touted as protective garments against direct exposure to dangerous chemicals and infectious materials, do not forget to choose a 100% cotton lab coat that also gives you the professional look and functional comfort. 100% cotton lab coats, or at least 80% cotton can stand high temperatures. It is comfortable, soft and cooling that even as the wearer perspires, this fabric absorbs the sweat allowing the fabric to “breathe”.

100% cotton lab coats take to dye easily. That is if you also get some good quality dye. If it contains much polyester , red dye will only make pink, and blue dye will make baby blue, which would not be right at all.

Used mainly by medical professionals, research chemists and other people who are involved with dangerous materials in a laboratory environment. 100% cotton lab coats are comfortable, lightweight and can be treated to enhance its flame resistance. However, this capability may dissipate after repeated laundering. 100% cotton lab coats can be degraded by acids but more resistant to some organic solvents.

A severely stained or torn lab coat is a hazard and should be replaced immediately. For stains on 100% cotton lab coats, it is recommended that you contact your local dry cleaner and tell them to work on the stain immediately. The coat may shrink but only to just 1%-3%.

If you opt to home wash your 100% lab coat then you must wash them in cold water and line dry. But if washed in warm water and dried on regular heat, you may get shrinkage at least a full size and will fade quicker.  The first time you wash 100% cotton lab coats, make sure to add a half a cup of vinegar to help set the color and avoid premature fading. Remember that all 100% cotton lab coats have to be ironed if you wash them yourself.  There is no such thing as wrinkle free 100% cotton lab coats.

Laundry shops regard cotton lab coats as adequate for laboratory needs especially those made of 100% cotton. They are cooler, and can be washed easily with high water temperatures. They can even be bleached so they will look cleaner. Compared to polyester, 100% cotton lab coats though are not  fluid-resistant. 

Unlike most cotton fashions, manufacturers 100% cotton lab coats make sure that the garments undergo rigorous testing to assure quality.  For example, manufacturer Pastelli has selected pure, natural 300-thread count Egyptian long-fiber combed cotton (Makò cotton) for its valuable properties   that guarantees that the cottons will retain their original shape. In fact, each washing will increase the softness and luxurious feel of the garments.

100% cotton lab coats vary in weight and material. Here are two samples:

  • 100% cotton medium weight (5 ounce) knee length pure cotton twill. The traditional medical cotton coat. Requires ironing, and may shrink slightly. Order blank or custom made. 
  • 100% cotton heavyweight fluid-resistant (8oz) twill. Wash and wear, the fabric has a fluid repellant finish, thus, water just runs off the coat. The surface has a soft-brushed texture and does not require ironing.

For your orders of high-quality 100% cotton lab coats, the web offers a convenient way to shop for lab coats as you can easily compare prices.  Visit Doctors Lab Coat, Automotive WorkWear or Medwear Direct for an online catalog of 100% cotton lab coat that provides that professional look. Great deals and popular styles for men and women are available.