In this study, multifunctional cotton fabric with directional water transport and excellent UV protection and antibacterial properties was prepared by persimmon tannin and laser (PT-L) treatment. Persimmon tannin (PT) treated cotton fabric was hydrophobic by forming a hydrophobic surface and constructing the micro-nano structure. The unique chemical composition and structure of the persimmon dyeing solution gave it excellent UV protection and antibacterial properties. Then the PT treated cotton fabric was dotted by a 4w laser, which gives the gradient wettability for directional water transport in the thickness direction. The water drip test proved that the droplets can be transported to the top side of the fabric through the dot area under antigravity conditions and cannot reverse penetrate. The microscopic morphology and chemical composition of the surface of cotton fabrics with different treatments were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Functional tests showed that the PT-L treated fabric has excellent UV protection and antibacterial properties. Stability and physical properties tests showed that PT-L treated cotton fabric has good rubbing resistance and durability without adverse effects on other properties. The preparation process is simple and effective without the use of any synthetic chemicals, which provides an innovative and green approach to the production of functional cotton fabrics.