Chintz is a medium-weight plain weave cotton fabric, given a polished or glazed finish, often referred to as "polished cotton." Traditional chintz fabrics are printed with large designs and used for home products.

Chintz is often used as upholstery for sofas, armchairs, and curtains. It can also be found in women’s apparel, in skirts and blouses.

Chintz fabrics may require a little more care than other cotton fabrics, since they have a special surface effect that needs to be maintained.

Because the nature of chintz is to have a flat, smooth surface, it is highly susceptible to wrinkling. When used in apparel, it will need regular ironing with steam to keep it looking sharp.