Mercerized cotton is a type of cotton fabric or yarn that has undergone a treatment called mercerization, which improves its properties. The process was invented by John Mercer in 1844, who treated cotton with solutions of 20-30% sodium hydroxide followed by washing. The treatment improves dye uptake and tear strength, reduces fabric shrinkage, and imparts a silk-like luster. The process involves treating cotton with sodium hydroxide, which destroys the spiral form of the cellulose with the formation of alkali cellulose. The alkali cellulose is then changed to cellulose hydrate on washing out the alkali. The process requires the use of wetting agents and tension to produce nearly circular cotton fibers, which give the fabric its characteristic luster. Mercerized cotton is more lustrous and brighter in color than non-mercerized cotton, and it is also stronger, smoother, and more resistant to mildew. The treatment increases the absorption of dyestuffs by as much as 25%, making the color of the dyed cloth brighter and deeper. Mercerized cotton is easy to clean and will release stains and odors in a home laundry. The process is commonly used in conjunction with wrinkle-resist technology, particularly in shirting fabrics and bottoms, as the fibers swell, they have a new tendency to resist wrinkling. Mercerized cotton fabrics can be found in nearly any application, including polo shirts, cotton sheets, and khakis.