Studies were conducted to examine the feasibility of using high cotton moisture content during storage to reduce cotton stickiness. Initially, water alone was added to bring the moisture content to 15%, 30% and 40% moisture. The cottons were stored for 5, 11 and 15 days at 10 C. At each storage period, microbial population, cotton quality (strength and color), cotton stickiness, and cotton dust potential were determined. Later, a second set of cottons were brought to 30% moisture using water augmented with urea or ammonia to minimize microbial effects. The cottons were stored for 15 days at room temperature. Microbial population, cotton quality (strength and color), cotton stickiness, and cotton dust potential were determined. The changes in microbial population and cotton dust potential results will be reported.