Abstract: A stretchable nonwoven, laminated fabric having one or more cotton containing surface layers thermally bonded to one or both sides of a thermoplastic filament fiber core layer and a method for fabricating the fabric. These fabrics after being subjected to a heat-stretching process can provide instantaneous elastic recoveries of 83% to 93% for 50% extension. Furthermore, the fabric exhibits a hand similar to cotton knits, good strength, good wetting, good wicking good water retention, and minimal linting characteristics and can be used for medical applications. Consolidated nonwoven laminated fabrics are also disclosed which can provide instantaneous elastic recovery.