Cotton Incorporated recognizes 1888 Mills for commitment to cotton in home textiles

Cotton Incorporated has presented the Champion of Cotton Award to 1888 Mills, recognizing the company’s continued commitment to cotton in the home textiles market. The award was presented in New York during a ceremony attended by Cotton Incorporated executives, 1888 Mills leadership, and industry stakeholders.

Based in Griffin, Georgia, 1888 Mills has a long history in bath and bedding textiles. The recognition highlights the company’s consistent focus on cotton sourcing, manufacturing, and clear communication with consumers. A key factor in the award was the launch of 1888 Mills’ 100% Cotton Bath and Bedding Collection in 2025, which prominently features the Seal of Cotton trademark.

The Champion of Cotton Award is given to brands that demonstrate leadership in using and promoting cotton across their product lines. According to William Kimbrell, president and CEO of Cotton Incorporated, 1888 Mills sets a strong example in the home textiles category.

“The Champion of Cotton Award recognizes brands leading by example,” Kimbrell said. “1888 Mills demonstrates long-standing leadership in the home market, from sourcing and manufacturing to clearly communicating fiber choice through the Seal of Cotton trademark. Their bath and bedding marketing highlights cotton’s durability, breathability, long-lasting softness, and microplastic-free benefits, showing how cotton-forward decisions can be implemented at scale.”

For 1888 Mills, cotton has always been central to product performance, particularly in everyday items such as towels and sheets. The company views the Seal of Cotton as a clear and simple way to help customers understand what they are buying.

“Cotton has always played an important role in our products because of how it performs and what it brings to everyday essentials like towels and sheets,” said Lexi Schladenhauffen, chief merchandising officer at 1888 Mills. “The Seal of Cotton felt like a natural extension of that commitment. It clearly communicates fiber content and reinforces the value of choosing cotton. Our customers have been excited about this approach, especially coming out of market, and we are grateful to Cotton Incorporated for recognizing our team and the work we are doing.”

During the ceremony, the award was accepted by several members of the 1888 Mills leadership team, including Timi Majek, vice president of marketing and visual merchandising; Cheryl Leisenring, senior director of product development; Harry Kartus, senior vice president of retail and consumer goods; and Lexi Schladenhauffen. The award was presented by William Kimbrell on behalf of Cotton Incorporated.

The recognition reflects a shared focus on transparency, fiber education, and the continued relevance of cotton in home textiles. For both organizations, the award serves as a reminder that clear fiber choices and consistent messaging still matter to today’s consumers.