Cotton is one of the oldest known natural fibers. According to Cotton Council International, cotton is a natural, renewable, biodegradable and sustainable fiber. Cotton is used in the majority of clothing, particularly men's and boys'; the National Cotton Council of America claims that cotton supplies 70 percent of this market.

Levi Strauss & Co., a major producer of jeans and denim, says that cotton is used in 95 percent of its products. Jeans have become a basic staple in the American closet since Levi Strauss began manufacturing them in 1873.

From the classic white cotton T-shirt that brings to mind James Dean to the button-up work staple, cotton is the main fabric used to make a breathable and comfortable shirt.

Cotton is a main fabric used in underwear, from briefs to undershirts. Since cotton is breathable, absorbent and soft, it's ideal for use in garments that are close to the body.

Cotton makes up more than 60 percent of the market for sheets, pillowcases and bedspreads. Cotton is also widely used in other home furnishings such as curtains and pillows.

Towels and washcloths are made almost exclusively of cotton. Cotton fiber is absorbent and the best fabric to use in bathroom and kitchen towels.