Cotton fiber is primarily composed of a natural polymer derived from plants.
The major constituent of cotton fiber is cellulose. This polysaccharide forms the structural backbone of the fiber.
Analysis shows that cotton fiber consists of approximately:
| Component | Percentage (approx.) |
| Cellulose | > 90% |
| Other components (hemicellulose, pectins, proteins, waxes) | < 10% |
Substances like lignin are found in woody plant tissues and are not significant in cotton fiber.
The high concentration of cellulose dictates the characteristic properties of cotton, such as its strength and absorbency.