What's the Difference Between Cotton and Muslin?

Simply put, cotton is a fiber, while muslin is a type of weave.

Cotton is a natural plant-based fiber that can be woven into various types of fabrics, such as twill, plain weave, denim, and more. Muslin, on the other hand, is a specific type of fabric typically made from cotton, characterized by its loose plain weave, which makes it lighter, more breathable, and softer than regular cotton fabrics.

Because of its structure, muslin is especially suitable for applications that require breathability and softness—such as baby swaddles, sleep sacks, garment prototypes, and photography backdrops. Regular cotton fabrics, in contrast, are usually preferred when durability, structure, and broader versatility are required.

In short, the difference lies not in opposition but in perspective—material vs. weave.