Four different module cover fabrics were tested in replicated tests on two growers' farms. The cover fabrics tested were (1) 5.25 oz./yd. woven polyethylene by Gerrard, (2) a 6.25 oz./yd. woven polyethylene by KBH/Gerrard, (3) a 16 oz./yd. vinyl by AgriFab and (4) a 3 oz./yd. reinforced microporous/breathable fabric from Amoco Fabric and Fibers/Autoverters.

Seed cotton moisture samples were taken at harvest, after rainfall and during ginning. Module temperatures were measured periodically. Lint quality (primarily color grades) was determined and reported from all bales in the respective modules. Seed cotton moisture content increased very slightly during storage; however, no differences between module covers were observed. Module temperatures were not different. Color grade improved in quality with storage. This improvement was very slight and resulted in improved color grade only because of the positions on the USDA AMS Cotton Classing Office's Color Chart. No differences in lint quality could be associated with the module cover type. A statistically significant difference in yellowness was observed when comparing check modules to stored modules or cover materials.