Moisture content is a key parameter in cotton ginning, which has a direct impact on fiber strength, seed separation capacity, and overall processing efficiency. Excess moisture reduces fiber strength, while excessive dryness leads to breakage and low productivity. Old methods of moisture control, such as spray-based conditioning, natural drying, and oven drying (as standardized in the American Society for Testing and Materials, ASTM D2495-07), offer limited precision and flexibility for high-speed ginning operations. To solve these issues, in this work, we assess traditional approaches and innovative sensor-based solutions, ranging from sophisticated systems such as the Vomax Model 760, Intelligin platforms, capacitive sensors, near-infrared spectroscopy, and IoT-facilitated monitoring tools. These technologies provide real-time accurate moisture sensing and adaptive control, minimizing the loss of fibers and enhancing energy efficiency. The originality of the present work is in combining sensor-based technologies with current ginning practices to offer a comprehensive view on both the improvement of fiber quality and process sustainability. We also emphasize new technology trends, including automation and Industry 4.0 integration, which are transforming the future of cotton ginning. The results indicate that efficient sensor-based moisture management not only enhances fiber quality but also increases operational efficiency, bringing significant advantages to both cotton producers and textile manufacturers.