When people think of bamboo, the first thing that likely comes to mind is the bamboo tree of Asian descent, followed by bamboo chutes (common in Asian food dishes). Few people would think of bamboo as a fabric. But bamboo fabrics made from pure bamboo fiber yarns can make excellent Bedding and Towels. The trait of interest in bamboo material is its unusual ability to breathe, and its coolness. Because bamboo fiber is filled with micro-gaps and micro-holes (a physical trait of the material), a bamboo fabric has better moisture absorption and ventilation. Bamboo fibers absorbs and evaporates human sweat in a split second, and thus sheets feel cool and comfortable in hot weather and cozy in cooler weather.

So here it is in a nut shell..

There are more than 1500 species of bamboo worldwide. The species most commonly used for textiles is Moso bamboo (Phyllostachys Pubescens), which grows primarily in large areas of eastern China.

Bamboo thrives without pesticides or fertilizers due to its unique antimicrobial property (called Bamboo Kun). It is believed that bamboo fabric retains the anti-microbial and anti-fungal properties of the bamboo plant, making it an excellent choice for sheets, bedding, and towels. Bamboo sheets actually repel bacteria, fungus, and dust mites! This makes them a healthier choice for everyone, but particularly those with allergies or chemical sensitivities.

Bamboo sheets are thermal regulating; keeping you cooler in the summer & warmer in cold weather. Bamboo is moisture-wicking (draws moisture away from the body – letting it evaporate), and resistant to mold and mildew which helps to prevent odors.  Bamboo towels are more absorbent and dry much faster than their cotton counterparts. As an added benefit, bamboo sheets and towels are luxuriously soft; far softer than even the highest thread count cotton sheets.

Some basic Information regarding bamboo sheets.. Bamboo usually has a thread count of 250. Because of the way it is manufactured the fibers are more comfortable than higher thread count.

To keep your sheets from wrinkling take them of the dryer as soon as the cycle is over fluff and fold. I haven’t found a magic way to fold the fitted sheets, I am not sure there is one.

Pilling is common in all fabrics, more so with fabricated products such as polyester and acrylics. Cotton, linen and bamboo will also pill, but will wash away during the wash cycle. To help minimize pilling reduce your wash time and do not over stuff your machine. Use of a fabric softener will also help.

Enjoy!