How well does cotton absorb oil?

Cotton has a limited ability to absorb oil due to its hydrophilic nature, which means it readily absorbs water but not oil. While it can hold some oil, its effectiveness is significantly less compared to materials specifically designed for oil absorption, such as certain synthetic fibers or absorbent pads. In practical applications, cotton can be used for light oil spills, but it may not be the most efficient option for larger or more hazardous spills.