Cotton Insulation: Definition and What it is
Eco-friendly insulation made from recycled cotton fibers, often used in sustainable building projects.
What is Cotton Insulation?
Cotton insulation is manufactured primarily from recycled denim and cotton textile scraps, treated with borate for fire and pest resistance. This eco-friendly insulation offers excellent thermal and acoustic performance while diverting textile waste from landfills.
Cotton batt insulation provides an R-value of approximately R-3.4 to R-3.7 per inch, comparable to fiberglass. It contains no formaldehyde, fiberglass, or chemical irritants, making installation safer and more comfortable. The dense cotton fibers also provide superior sound dampening, reducing noise transmission by up to 30% more than standard fiberglass.
Cotton Insulation Forms
- UltraTouch Batts: Pre-cut panels sized for standard wall and ceiling cavities (R-13, R-19, R-21, R-30)
- Friction-Fit Cotton: Slightly oversized batts that stay in place without fasteners
- Cotton Loose-Fill: Shredded cotton for hard-to-reach cavities and retrofit applications
- Cotton Blow-In: Machine-applied loose cotton for attics and wall cavities
When to Choose Cotton Insulation
Cotton insulation is ideal for eco-conscious homeowners, DIY installations, homes with chemical sensitivities, and projects prioritizing indoor air quality. It's particularly valuable in sound-sensitive applications like home theaters, music studios, and bedrooms. Cotton works well in walls, ceilings, and floors. While installation is easy and safe, ensure proper coverage to achieve rated R-values, as cotton can compress if not properly fitted.
Benefits of Cotton Insulation
- Safe to handle—no itching, irritation, or respiratory concerns
- Made from 85-90% recycled cotton (often post-industrial denim)
- Superior sound absorption compared to fiberglass
- No formaldehyde or VOC emissions
- Class A fire rating with borate treatment
- Naturally resistant to mold, mildew, and pests
- Easy DIY installation without special equipment
Cotton Insulation Cost
Cotton insulation costs moderately more than fiberglass but less than spray foam, with excellent value for green building projects.
- Material cost: $1.20-$2.00 per square foot for standard batts
- Availability (not stocked at all retailers—may require special order)
- Installation labor (DIY-friendly reduces costs)
- Project size and R-value requirements
- Potential green building rebates and tax incentives
How InsulationPal Can Help You
InsulationPal connects you with licensed, experienced insulation contractors. Compare multiple quotes to get the best value for your project.
Free Quotes: Get multiple competitive quotes from pre-screened contractors.
Expert Matching: We match you with pros experienced in cotton insulation.
Quality Assurance: Licensed, insured, and verified contractors.
Related Services and Resources
Explore all services we offer
Expert guides and tips on insulation