Bamboo and cotton T-shirt on a hot day
Short answer: On a hot day a light T-shirt feels best, whether it is made of bamboo viscose or cotton. The difference lies in the surface, weight and drape of the fabric, and in how you experience them yourself. Here is a sober comparison so you can choose by your own needs.
What the difference really is
Cotton is a natural plant fibre, while bamboo viscose is a processed fibre made from cellulose from bamboo. Both are used for T-shirts and can be fine on a hot day. The difference lies in the surface, drape and feel, and it is more important to feel it than to read about it.
Fabric weight and thickness
On a hot day weight matters more than the type of fibre. A thinner T-shirt in an open knit lets air through, while a thick and dense fabric can feel warm and sticky. Hold the fabric up to the light and look at how light it seems, and choose by that rather than just the name.
How cotton feels
Cotton often feels textured and a little dry against the skin, and many like that feel because it seems familiar and sturdy. It can become softer over time and stands up to many washes. When you start to sweat, though, it can become heavy if the fabric is thick.
How bamboo viscose feels
Bamboo viscose often has a smooth and soft surface, and the fabric drapes easily over the body. Many find it gentle to wear, but that is a personal judgement. See bamboo T-shirts for men if you want to feel the difference yourself and compare cuts.
Fit in the heat
A loose fit lets more air through than a close one, and a round neckline is often cooler than one with a collar. Choose a size that does not cling when you move. A T-shirt that is slightly too big often feels better in the heat than one that is slightly too small.
Colours and sun
Light colours reflect the sun and heat up less than dark ones, but show sweat and stains more easily. Mid-tones such as grey, blue and green are a good compromise. Choose by where you will wear the T-shirt and how much time you spend in the sun.
Care on hot days
When you sweat a lot, it is best to wash the T-shirt after each wear and by the label. Wash at a low temperature and do not leave it damp in a basket. Air drying is gentle for both cotton and viscose and gives fewer creases.
Brands and alternatives
You can find T-shirts in different fabrics and cuts from several brands, for example JBS of Denmark. Take time to read the label and see what the fabric is made of. Also think of what lies closest to the skin, such as bamboo underpants for men.
Frequently asked questions
Is bamboo better than cotton on a hot day?
It is not a matter of better or worse. Fabric weight and fit often matter more than the fibre, so choose a light T-shirt with a loose fit, whatever the material.
Which colour is coolest?
Light colours heat up less in the sun but show sweat and stains more easily. Mid-tones are a good compromise if you want both.
How often should a T-shirt be washed in the heat?
After each wear if you sweat a lot. Wash by the label at a low temperature and let it dry fully before it is put away.
