Various procedures and parameters have been used in large scale washing of cotton which has beau sampled prior to, at the end of, and occasionally during the procedure.

Gram negative bacterial counts and endotoxin levels have been correlated with the different processes. The relationship of factors (such as temperature, use of bleach, use of finish, whether water is exchanged or simply replaced) to the microbiological measurements will be presented and discussed.

Data on cotton washed in the laboratory will be included. Data on mechanically cleaned cotton will be summarized.