Weathering of cotton fibers is known to produce problems in processing and in dyeing. Surfaces of cotton fibers play an important part in these operations. Surfaces of different varieties of cotton with known weathering history to are examined using an electron spectrometer for chemical analysis (ESCA). The elements present on the surfance of the cotton fibers together with their oxidation state and chemical environment are measured. The results are linked to increased wetability of the weathered cotton and dyability problems associated with weathered fibers.