The pale leaves of cattails are basal, long, and erect. Their ribbon-like form makes them well suited for weaving into items such as baskets, mats, and rope. In cross-section, numerous air channels can be seen in the leaves, which are very spongy and absorbent. Due to this quality, they have at times been used to caulk boats and stop small leaks. The distinctive fuzzy brown fruiting heads of cattails are also useful to humans. The soft material they provide has been employed for a number of different purposes including padding blankets, stuffing pillows, and lining diapers.