Were you looking for an alternative to cotton sheets and are wondering if bamboo sheets are better than cotton? Let’s discuss luxury, convenience, and quality of both types.
The hard answer to this question is: It depends. Bamboo sheets are reaching its own spotlight and are making up a huge drive in the business nowadays. Let’s take a closer look at the innovative and environmentally friendly benefits of bamboo sheets.
There is a strong competition between bamboo and cotton. Here’s a quick overview of this comparison:
| Bamboo | Cotton |
| 100% bamboo sheets are long-lasting compared to conventional sheets. They can be used for up to 15 years. | Cotton sheets are tough but they may be torn and expand after repeated washing. |
| They can have lower thread count but still exceptionally soft. | They need to have a higher thread count to become soft. |
| The fabric will remain cool even if the situation gets a little bit hot. | Cotton also stays cool even during summer conditions. |
| Bamboo is antimicrobial, hypoallergenic, and antibacterial. | Cotton fiber is hypoallergenic. |
| It requires sensitive attention and washing. | Cotton doesn’t need a lot of attention. |
| It is expensive. | It is affordable. |
Do you want to jump ahead?
Bamboo cloth is made from 100% bamboo pulp fiber but what does this mean?
- It gives a soft and comfortable touch and distinctive brilliance.
- 100% bamboo yarns are excellent in elasticity.
- It is beautiful and sparkling when dyed.
- Highly absorptive at which point bacteria will have a hard time to breed.
- Great hygroscopicity.
What are the types of bamboo fabric?
100% Bamboo Viscose
There is an enormous amount of bamboo sheets for sale on the market. Some of them are made with 100% bamboo viscose which provides a maximum of benefits. They are not just smooth but also quite long-lasting. Just make sure to purchase 100% bamboo viscose fabrics from a company that practices strict sewage treatment protocols.
Most people know that viscose from bamboo is one of the toughest and most inexpensive fabrics to use or sleep in. Bamboo can outlast cotton in keeping strength and shape three times over when properly cared for.
100% Bamboo Lyocell
Bamboo lyocell is another famous material used in sheets. They are made from 100% bamboo lyocell substance that are extremely sustainable. Its material is created by dissolving fresh bamboo with the application of a non-toxic solution. It is durable, but they are less softer than 100% bamboo viscose.
The lyocell method is just a bit of the whole process. It is necessary to guarantee that dyes, finishing chemicals, and anti-pilling, as well as by-products from lyocell making, are also not harmful.
Bamboo blended with cotton
Most of the time, bamboo is combined with cotton in a particular proportion in order to obtain the advantages of both materials. The most common blend is 60% bamboo viscose and 40% cotton or 70% bamboo viscose and 30% cotton. Combining bamboo with cotton gives the fabric relatively more effective than 100% absolute bamboo. But the softness of the material is a little bit threatened.
What is rayon?
Rayon is recognized as one of the softest fabrics nowadays that is made from bamboo. There are studies proving that rayon fabric is also biodegradable as opposed to cotton fabric because of its chemical characteristics. It is easy to color it as compared to different cloth.
The most common type of rayon is the viscose rayon. They are just like cotton. It is moisture absorbent, breathable, and a stylish option for athletic and casual wear. It displays up in skirts, shirts, and some outdoor gears. Secondary kinds of rayon are modal rayon and lyocell.
Two weaving patterns for bamboo sheets
Bamboo twill
Twill has a diagonal rib or thread. It is a lot like those of a pair of jeans which is at its finest. twill is not as soft as sateen but nevertheless naturally softer than cotton sheets.
Twill is a textile described by its diagonal pattern. This is obvious in tweed variants where many colors are applied. This fabric tends to be a light one, particularly when knitted with wool. It can design a fine fabric for not so cold temperatures. Generally, the genuine twills are those with the extraordinary thread count because this will strengthen the fabric.
Bamboo sateen
The bigger thread exterior presented by the three-over, one-under weave, is what presents sateen its trademark: silky-soft feel and the radiant shine. This fabric is a bit finer than twill and needs extra care. It is more expensive tha twill but costs less than silk. Sateen cloth is very smooth but not as slippery as satin.
Why bamboo sheets are better than cotton sheets
Let’s move forward to the benefits that bamboo in its natural form and as a sheet provide.
Environmentally friendly
Bamboos can be grown almost anywhere. It is a fast-growing, sustainable and biodegradable product which is perfect for those concerned with their carbon footprint on the planet. The high photosynthetic action of this grass converts more carbon dioxide into oxygen than trees.
It thrives freely without the dependence on pesticides and various toxic chemicals which means it promises the result of reliable and healthy sheets. They can be naturally restored once it has been cut. Its quick maturity lets you harvest it without creating any disturbance in the ecosystem.
Another exceptional advantage of using bamboo is that it is 100% biodegradable. It decomposes immediately and hardly releases carbon dioxide. Some other fabrics may emit harmful chemicals when it is discarded in landfills. They may also contaminate the air and land. Bamboo plants discharge oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide, not like cotton.
Hypoallergenic, anti-microbial, and anti-fungal
Bamboo has anti-fungal and anti-microbial characteristics also known as “Bamboo Kun”. The fabrics manufactured from this grass are seen to preserve these unique features. It will not keep the residues of fertilizers and pesticides in its outputs which may provoke hypersensitivities and asthma. These sheets can fight off dust mites, mold, and bacteria. It is immune to mold and mildew. Therefore, it doesn’t produce bad odors. These textiles are highly prescribed for people experiencing skin diseases and respiratory sicknesses.
Durable
Bamboos are durable and exceptional in quality, compared to traditional fabrics. Bamboo sheets are very strong because long fibers are utilized in the production, rather than short fibers sewed together. These long threads add vigor. They will not tear apart with regular use.
Soft
It is smooth and comfortable which makes it one of the finest selections among linens and bedding merchandises. This is because actual bamboo fibers and finely woven strands make up the material.
Absorbs moisture
Bamboo cloths have natural breathability from its simple weaving design and nonchemical elements. This breathability enables these sheets to absorb dampness almost immediately and dehumidify it.
Pin it for later!
Cotton characteristics
In order to compare it better, we also have to look into cotton characteristics.
Cotton farming does not use any toxic pesticides, artificial fertilizers, and additional chemicals that may harm your well-being. It is generally recognized as a renewable source. It also runs in the list of high-quality fiber. Cotton fibers are durable and softer because they are not broken down with synthetic processing.
If cotton is not exposed to chemicals, it will be useful for a prolonged period with proper attention. Addressing satisfaction is one of the perks that cotton fiber offers. It is so soft to feel, which will give you a happy mood knowing that dangerous chemicals aren’t touching the skin as well as any harm to our environment.
One of the most popular cotton fiber is Egyptian cotton sheets. These kinds of cotton are recognized for having long and thin threads. Threads that are lighter can generate higher thread counts. The higher the thread count, the smoother, durable, and long-lasting the fabrics will be. Don’t forget that the life of cotton sheets depends on the attention you give it.
Egyptian cotton sheets characteristics
Egyptian cotton sheets are known for their luxurious smoothness and endurance. It is an excellent choice for ultimate sleeping pleasure. This “King of all Cotton” becomes softer after every wash. It is a breathable cloth and also helps absorb water from our body. It is soothing to our skin but it doesn’t have any particular health benefits.
The drawback of buying bamboo sheets
Expensive
One objection of bamboo bedding is its cost. It is sure that the primary price is higher, but the benefit that you will receive will last for many years. Bamboo sheets may still look brand-new for years. You won’t have to replace it as frequently as conventional cotton sheets.
Specific care
To improve the survival of your favorite sheets, you need to give them the best care possible. Do not store them in plastic cases because they trap the moisture which will result in mold and yellowing. Avoid cardboard as well, as these can give acids to your fabric.
Careful laundry instructions
Do not use liquid fabric softener, chlorine bleach, washer or dryer balls, and dryer sheets. Strong cleansers can cause harm and especially high-quality sheets. Bleach may weaken the rayon threads which will lessen the life of the sheets. Fabric softener and dryer sheets may leave a thin coating on your fabric which will reduce the moisture absorbing characteristics. Dryer sheets may cause a stain. Washer and dryer balls, like washing with towels, can cause a fluffy surface.
So, what’s the result of our ‘Bamboo vs. Cotton Sheets’ comparison?
Nothing is really perfect and always depends on your own situation. If you can handle the drawbacks, you will probably be happy with bamboo sheets. If you are looking for a hypoallergenic sheet and don’t have an issue with the cleaning restrictions, go for it! If you cannot go without bleaching your sheets or using softener, you will likely choose a different fabric. In the end it will be your choice but we hope we gave you the best details on this topic.
