Textile maker Daiwabo Co has developed a cotton fibre that helps reduce the likelihood of skin irritation for people who are sensitive to residual detergents, softeners and other chemical compounds in clothing.

The new cotton fibre is processed so that its surface is coated with a phospholipid polymer that traps these residual compounds so they do not make contact with the skin.

Daiwabo expects the fibre to be used for men''s dress shirts, women''s undergarments and uniforms. It will cost around 10 per cent more than regular cotton products.