Short answer
Ring-spun cotton is cotton that has been spun on ring-spinning machines, which twist and thin the fibers into a fine, smooth yarn. It is usually softer and a little more durable than cheaper “regular” cotton, which in t-shirts typically means open-end (rotor-spun) yarn. It is still 100% cotton, and it generally costs a bit more.
How each is made
- Regular (open-end) cotton. Fibers are spun quickly into yarn using a rotor method. It is efficient and inexpensive, but the yarn tends to be bulkier and less uniform, with a fuzzier surface.
- Ring-spun cotton. Fibers are drawn out, twisted and wound continuously on a ring frame. This is slower and costs more, but produces a finer, tighter and smoother yarn.
Note that “regular cotton” is a loose term. Some shops use it to mean carded or open-end cotton; always check what a particular seller is comparing against.
Is ring-spun cotton soft?
Generally, yes. Because the yarn is finer and has fewer sticking-out fiber ends, ring-spun fabric usually feels smoother and lighter against the skin. Softness also depends on other factors:
- the cotton fiber used (longer fibers usually help)
- whether the yarn is also combed
- fabric weight and knit
- any softening finishes and how many times the garment has been washed
Is ring-spun cotton good quality?
It is a widely used sign of better-than-basic cotton, especially in t-shirts, hoodies and towels. Typical advantages are:
- Smoother feel than open-end yarn.
- Better strength in the yarn. Some marketing quotes specific percentages for how much stronger it is; these vary, so it is safer to say “somewhat stronger.”
- Less visible fuzzing and pilling in many cases.
It is not a guarantee, though. A thin, poorly knitted ring-spun tee can still disappoint, and a well-made basic tee can last for years.
Is 100% ring-spun cotton the same as 100% cotton?
Both are made entirely of cotton. “Ring-spun” tells you how the yarn was made, not what fiber it contains. It is also true that “spun cotton” is a general phrase, since nearly all cotton yarn is spun in some way. For how this fits with fiber types and other terms, see our guide to types of cotton for t-shirts.
Does ring-spun cotton shrink?
It can. Ring-spun cotton is still cotton, and heat and agitation can cause shrinkage. Many garments are pre-shrunk to limit this, but some shrinkage may still occur; our guide to whether ring-spun cotton shrinks goes into detail. To lower the risk, wash cooler and dry on low heat or air dry, and follow the care label.
Printing
Print shops often prefer ring-spun fabric because its smoother surface can show fine detail well, which is one reason it appears so often in blank tee descriptions.
Price
Expect to pay somewhat more for ring-spun than for basic open-end cotton, because the process is slower. For tees you wear often, many people feel the extra cost is modest for the improvement in feel.
Ring-spun vs combed, and “highest quality” cotton
Spinning method and combing are different steps and are often combined as “combed ring-spun.” Neither tells you the fiber variety. The highest-quality cotton generally combines long-fiber varieties such as Supima or Egyptian cotton with careful yarn processing and a good fabric structure, but “highest quality” depends on the use. For wider comparisons, see Egyptian cotton vs regular cotton.
FAQ
Is 100% polyester or 100% cotton better?
Neither is better for everything. Cotton is breathable and soft but can wrinkle and take longer to dry. Polyester dries quickly and resists wrinkles but may feel less breathable. The best choice depends on the use, and blends sit in between, as covered in cotton vs cotton polyester blend.
What is the unhealthiest fabric to wear?
No fabric is universally unhealthy. People react differently to dyes, finishes and fibers. If a fabric irritates your skin, try a different fiber or an undyed option, and consult a doctor if the problem continues.