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The Differences Between 20S, 24S, and 30S Yarn in the Textile Industry

11 Jan 2026 | 121 Views | News Category: Education

Choosing the right type of yarn is the first step toward producing high-quality textile products. When you select yarns such as 20S, 24S, and 30S, these numbers are not just codes—they are important indicators that determine the characteristics of the fabric produced.

Therefore, understanding the differences between 20S, 24S, and 30S yarn is essential for the production of T-shirts, apparel, and other textile needs.

What Do the Numbers “20S, 24S, 30S” Mean in Yarn?

Ne Numbering System (UK Standard)

In the textile industry, numbers such as 20S, 24S, and 30S refer to the English Cotton Count (Ne) system, an indirect method used to indicate yarn fineness based on the length of yarn per specific weight. The higher the count number, the finer the yarn. In simple terms:

30S: finer and thinner
24S: medium
20S: thicker and heavier

Technically, the “S” number indicates how much yarn length (in a specific unit) is contained in one pound of yarn weight. This means that a higher number represents more length per weight, resulting in a finer yarn.

Differences Between the Three Types of Yarn

1. 20S Yarn (Strong & Durable)

Key characteristics

Thicker and heavier compared to 24S and 30S.
Tends to produce fabric with higher GSM (grammage), making it feel denser and more solid.

Advantages

High durability, suitable for products that are frequently worn or washed.
A popular choice for casual T-shirts that aim for a more structured and substantial feel.

In short, 20S is ideal if your priority is fabric strength and durability.

2. 24S Yarn (Balanced Between Thick & Fine)

Key characteristics

Thickness falls between 20S and 30S.
Well-suited for T-shirts or textiles that require a balance between comfort and strength.

Advantages

Feels comfortable to wear without being too thin.
Usually has a medium GSM, making it suitable for a wide range of production needs.

This is why 24S is often chosen as a versatile, multi-purpose option in the apparel industry.

3. 30S Yarn (Thin, Soft & Comfortable)

Key characteristics

Finer and lighter compared to 20S and 24S.
Typically produces fabric with lower GSM and a softer hand feel.

Advantages

Feels cooler and more breathable, ideal for warm climates or everyday wear.
Offers a smoother appearance and is often perceived as more premium for comfort-focused products.

However, because it is thinner, 30S fabric requires extra attention during production to ensure it remains strong and does not stretch easily.

Summary of the Differences Between 20S, 24S, and 30S

Aspect	20S	24S	30S
Yarn thickness	High	Medium	Low
Fabric weight (GSM)	Heavier	Medium	Lighter
Fabric strength	High	Good	Slightly lower
Comfort level	Quite comfortable	Comfortable	Very comfortable
Best for	Thicker, stronger T-shirts	Versatile T-shirts	Lightweight, breathable T-shirts

Choosing the right yarn is not just about numbers. It determines the final character of your textile products—from comfort and durability to how well they match your target market.
For example, if your target is lightweight and breathable everyday wear, 30S may be more suitable. But if you need stronger apparel for heavier use, 20S can be the better choice.