What’s the Difference?
Optic White
Made with bleaching agents and optical brighteners (fluorescent whitening agents). The process uses harsh chemicals—chlorine, peroxide, caustic soda—to achieve maximum brightness. Result: brilliant, uniform white that photographs well and reads unmistakably “white” to end consumers. Trade-off: fiber stress, higher chemical use, and optical brighteners fade slightly with repeated washing.
Milk White
Achieved with gentler bleaching and minimal or no optical brighteners. Relies on clean cotton and careful processing rather than aggressive chemistry. Result: warmer, softer white with better durability and wash-fastness. Trade-off: requires higher-quality base material and is less forgiving of production inconsistencies.