Inadequate moisture during the growing season has been shown to reduce cotton (Gossypium hirsutum) lint yields. Little is known, however, as to how in-season growing conditions alter cotton fiber quality. Here, we show the impact of irrigation on cotton fiber quality. Cotton was grown in large replicated field plots with and without irrigation. Plots were mechanically harvested with a plot picker. Cotton was ginned on small scale research gin and a production gin. Fiber properties were determined with AFIS and HVI analysis. Several important fiber properties are negatively impacted by inadequate moisture. These properties reduce the value of the lint, negatively impacting the potential net return.