For many years historically, bamboo has been used in Asia for transportation, medicine, construction, cooking, papers, textiles, and so more. The modern world has come to know about the wonders of this green gold and with the help of human resources, we are making it useful in many ways.
Keep scrolling to know more about this wonderful plant.
Why bamboo of all other options available?
- Some of its species are one of the fastest-growing plants in the world as per Guinness Book Of World Record.
- It also requires a very little amount of water and no chemicals to grow.
- Bamboo plants absorb more carbon dioxide than cotton and release more oxygen in the air which helps in the improvement of air quality.
Now some of you might be wondering, isn’t cutting bamboo causes deforestation itself? Then let me tell you that bamboo lies under the family of grass. It is available in abundance out there, so be rest assured. Want to learn more about how bamboo trees are helping to restore the ecosystem, check our detailed article Bamboo Industry in India : Cultivation and Export.
How is the fabric made? Is the process eco friendly?
Bamboo for textile production is not the same as what you think our cute pandas eat. Moso bamboo is the particular type used to make textiles -from clothing to bedding. It is a native to Taiwan and China. India started its first nursery in recent years. There are two procedures by which the fabric is made – Mechanically and Chemically.
- Mechanical Method
- It is more labor-intensive than the chemical method.
- It involves processing the plant into mush by taking the help of natural enzymes.
- After that, the mush is spun into a yarn.
- Further, the yarn is used for different textiles.
- Chemical Method
- In this method, sodium hydroxide which is also known as caustic soda is used to break down the bamboo.
- After that, it is drowned in chemicals to produce cellulose.
Let’s not get worried about the use of sodium hydroxide. When used responsibly, it causes no harm to the workers and the environment. It is widely used in producing foods to soaps. And most importantly no residue remains on the clothes as it washes away easily.
Now that we know the basics, let us dive into why we should switch.
1. Softer and shinier
It is cashmere-like, which is why it is often compared with silk. Unlike cotton which has spurs and barbs, it is naturally very smooth and round which makes it softer than cotton which makes it look luxurious.
2. Incredibly durable
The viscose from bamboo is one of the strongest, coziest, and pocket-friendly fabric. Whether it is your sleepwear, bed sheets, or towels, the bamboo fabric will outwear cotton if properly taken care of. You just need to wash it in warm to cold water with detergents that are bleach-free and are gentle.
3. Absorbent
Bamboo fabric is more absorbent, it absorbs 40% moisture more than the finest cotton fabric. The tiny pore of the fabric absorbs all the perspiration, leaving no sweat marks on clothes, which is the main reason it is being used in making athletic wear.
4. Odor-free and hypoallergenic
The antimicrobial property gives a fresh feel. There are bioagents present called Bamboo Kun which fight with bacteria that cause bad odor. The fibers repel molds, dust mites, and mildews making it perfect for people with sensitive skin.
5. UV Rays protection
The fabric disperses 98% of harmful UV rays coming from the sun which causes skin cancer, making it your perfect companion for summer holidays.
6. Insulator
Bamboo fabrics have a special quality of working as an insulator, it keeps you cool in summer and seals the body warmth inside during winters.
7. Breathable
The micro gaps in the fabric trap the cool air from the body and make you feel cool and resist clinging to the body. It makes the fabric more breathable which can be worn in any season.
8. Recyclable and Sustainable
Bamboo is a renewable resource. Also, pesticides and fungicides are not used in the growing of bamboo which makes it the most sustainable option out there. And when the clothing is worn beyond use you can compost it and grow something new. It will never have to end up in a landfill.
Our two cents.
Switching to bamboo textiles is a smart decision as it is sustainable and eco friendly. NatureFab has a wide range of textiles to choose from. It is a luxuriously soft fiber that makes you feel comfortable. It is crafted for all-season performance, by absorbing the fabric moisture and offers natural breathability. If you’ve never worn this textile before, you are lacking from an amazing experience. Get your bamboo textiles in your home and make the earth greener and healthier.