When the average person thinks of blankets, materials such as cotton and linen usually come to mind, and although these can be very comfortable, they are not necessarily the most environmentally friendly, hygienic or even durable choices available.
Bamboo fabric has become very popular these days, and increasingly more people choose it when it comes to their bedding. It is true that it provides more benefits than cotton or any other fabric, and this is why it is actually highly recommended. Bamboo blankets are absolutely great from many points of view.
If you’re on the fence about switching to bamboo bedding, consider the following eye-opening benefits and how they can improve your sleeps.
Bamboo is stronger and lasts longer than cotton
If you compare a bamboo blanket to a cotton blanket, you will find that bamboo is without a doubt much stronger. Bamboo is very powerful as a raw material. This ingredient works well when fibers are spun into fabric and used to create beautiful sheets, duvet covers, comforters and other eco-friendly nighttime accessories. In many cases, bamboo will last 3 times longer than similar cotton products. They also won’t lose their appealing softness, even after many washes, believe it or not, they actually get softer. Furthermore, white bamboo sheets will actually stay white and not turn grey or yellow!
Bamboo has many environmental benefits
We love using bamboo as a raw material in our sheets. As durable as bamboo is, it can actually be woven into one of the most soft, comfortable fabrics on earth. Did you know that bamboo is one of the fastest growing natural resources on the planet (it can grow up to one yard per day). While bamboo uses only 12 gallons of water to produce one pound of fabric, cotton requires over 200 times more.
Another argument for using bamboo is that it does not require replanting after harvesting because its vast root network continually sprouts new stems. The roots pull in sunlight and greenhouse gases and convert them into new green growth. Bamboo grows without the the need for petroleum-guzzling tractors and poisonous pesticides and fertilizers and in fact when Japan’s Hiroshima was bombed, Bamboo was the first plant to grow back, bringing green back to the land.
Bamboo is extremely soft
Bamboo sheets and other kinds of bamboo bedding tend to be extremely soft and smooth. Depending on how the fibers are spun, the material can feel more like silk or fine cashmere. This texture is produced by the bamboo fiber’s round shape. Discerning sleepers will also appreciate bamboo’s versatility. It is warm like flannel yet retains the breath-ability of synthetic fabrics like Lycra. This sounds contradictory, but it actually allows your bamboo pillowcase or comforter to adjust to your body’s temperature needs.
Bamboo fabric keeps your bed clean and germ-free longer
On a daily basis, we spend hours in our beds, so naturally we are going to leave unseen things behind. Germs and bacteria can thrive in the warmth of your cozy mattress and pillows. The environment in your bed is made even more inviting when moisture is produced through sweat from your body. Switching to bamboo sheets is a good way to prevent this situation.
Bamboo naturally contains antibacterial and anti-fungal properties that eliminate the need for pesticides. When spun into fibers, this same effect will work whether you’re using a bamboo comforter, pillow case or duvet cover. A study performed by Shanghai Tenbro Bamboo Textile LTD revealed that after 50 industrial washes, fabric that was made of 100% bamboo was more than 70% effective in fending off live bacteria placed on it.
Stain resistant sheets look better longer
Bamboo sheets are stain resistant. This is a good thing considering how long the material usually lasts. Not only will your bedding stay comfortable and in tact, it is also less likely to start to look worn out or aged due to staining. The best part is that this quality occurs naturally so no chemicals are added to achieve this effect. You also won’t need to use any bleach or harsh detergents to keep your bamboo bedding pristine.
Bamboo is great for pregnancy, menopause and night sweats
Certain conditions can make it difficult for some people to get comfortable while they sleep. Some of the most common causes are pregnancy, menopause and night sweats. Hot flashes and being pregnant can make it very hard to sleep and although bamboo sheets won’t stop the symptoms, they will accommodate them thanks to the material’s insulating and breathable qualities.
People who suffer from night sweats desire thermal regulating qualities of bamboo sheets. Being able to stay dry and comfortable, is definitely a priority. The same characteristics that give bamboo fabric its absorbency, also gives it its amazing wicking capabilities.
Bamboo is completely sustainable
One of the most important benefits of switching to bamboo sheets and pillow cases is the material’s sustainability. Unlike other fabrics, bamboo fibers can be made without negatively impacting the environment. Bamboo self-irrigates which means it does not consume as much water as crops like cotton. It also produces more oxygen than many other trees and can help reduce carbon dioxide levels. Bamboo sheets rank high among the most earth-friendly bedding available today.
How to Take Proper Care of These Beautiful Blankets
Since they are made from a high-quality natural material that is safe for allergy sufferers and those with sensitive skin, these blankets must be treated like quality fabrics they truly are. In the following lines, you will learn how to keep your beautiful blankets at the heirloom level.
Wash them in cold water
Take care of your blankets and make them last longer with cold water. Use cold water and a gentle wash cycle for regular care. Bamboo is a delicate fabric that may not respond well to high temperatures. Therefore, you should never use hot water when cleaning bamboo, because it can cause the material to shrink.
Dry gentle
It’s recommended to dry the blankets under the sun on a clothesline. If you want to avoid shrinking, do not use the dryer. Avoid the use of a dryer because it can destroy the quality of the fabric.
Avoid washing with rough materials of different colors
Whether it is a blanket or a cover, it is important to combine related colors. This way, you will avoid color bleeding and staining. Avoid washing black or colored materials with whites. More than that, never wash bamboo fabrics with coarser fabrics. These rough materials will cause your blankets to pill.
Never use softeners
Bamboo blankets do not require any type of softener in the wash because they are already soft. On the other hand, if you want to remove stains, you can use natural cleaners that contain no harsh chemicals. Nowadays, most people replace the regular laundry detergent with a mixture of natural soap and baking soda. This method will help you maintain the blankets well into the future.
