Upholstery. Cotton's strong and durable nature makes it a natural fit for upholstery. It's easy to print on, which allows for a wide variety of fabric patterns and colors. Unfortunately, many of these prints and patterns will eventually wear off with heavy use. However, cotton upholstery is easy to clean — simply spot clean it with warm water and a nonbleach detergent, then rinse with vinegar water to remove any soap residue.

Sheets. Cotton sheets have been used for centuries. Although they're breathable and cool to the touch, they also insulate in the winter. Soft and comfortable, cotton sheets wash and age well. I recommend a thread count of 600 to 1,000 for a fine-quality sheet. The higher thread count increases the material’s weight, softness and performance — as well as the price!

Towels. Cotton absorbs moisture and is easy to care for and wash, making it the perfect fiber for bath towels. Wash them with a minimal amount of detergent to prevent soap buildup, since this makes the fabric rough.

Quilts. Cotton has long been a favorite choice for quilts. A thin layer of cotton fabric is lightweight, durable, comfortable, and easy to wash and dry.

Headboards. Cotton adds a final layer of comfort to upholstered headboards. I suggest spraying the headboard with a fabric protector to prevent stains, since hair products and natural hair oils can create a smudge where the head rests.

Slipcovers. Cotton is a proven choice for slipcovers, as it washes well and has a casual and comfortable feel. Use a nonbleach detergent and cold water if the fabric has a pattern or color to prevent fading. Cotton will shrink in the dryer, and pure cotton wrinkles easily, so air drying is often the best bet.

Mosquito curtains. Cotton has been used to make lightweight cloth in areas with tropical climates for thousands of years; in fact, it is believed that the ancient Egyptians cultivated cotton and used it for this purpose.

Window treatments. Cotton blends easily with other fibers, making it a great choice for window treatments. A combination of cotton and polyester makes for a strong, durable fabric that resists wrinkles and has good color retention.

More: 8 Modern Uses for Classically Beautiful Linen