Bamboo panties, how to read the material on the label
Short answer: The label in panties shows what the fabric is made of and how to wash it. Read the material list first, then find the care instructions. If it says viscose from bamboo, it is bamboo viscose, and how large a share it makes up you can see in the percentages.
Why the label is worth reading
The label in panties tells you what you actually wear against your body all day and how to look after it. It is the most reliable source you have, because it belongs to that specific pair. Headlines and descriptions can be short, but the label is almost always more precise.
How the label is built
Most labels have three parts: the material list, the care instructions and the size. The material list names the fibres with a percentage for each, usually in order of how much each makes up. The care instructions show symbols for temperature, drying and ironing. The size is often given as a letter and a number.
What it says about bamboo
When you look at bamboo panties, the label will often mention viscose, bamboo viscose or bamboo. Bamboo in clothing is viscose from bamboo, so the words cover the same fabric. Compare the percentages between pairs if you want to know how much they contain, and remember that the fabric can be blended with other fibres.
Elastane and other fibres
Many panties also contain elastane or another stretchy fibre, which gives the fabric a little stretch so the panties follow the body. If only a little is listed, the fabric gives less, and then size matters more. Read the whole list, not only the first fibre, because the blend decides how the fabric feels and behaves.
The care symbols
The symbol with the tub shows the highest washing temperature, and the crossed-out triangle means you should not use bleach. The square with a circle shows whether the item may go in the tumble dryer. Follow the symbols for your exact pair, and if you are unsure, choose a lower temperature and dry flat. That is rarely wrong.
Size and fit on the label
The size is often given as a letter, a number or both, and it only means something together with the brand's own size guide. Measure your hips and compare with the guide, rather than relying on the size on the label of another brand. Also consider whether the fabric has stretch, since that can change what the right choice is.
The label in other parts of the wardrobe
The same way of reading a label applies to the rest of the underwear and the sleepwear. If you look at bamboo sleepwear for women, you find the material list and care instructions in the same way. Use it when you compare two similar looking pairs, because the material can differ even if they look very much alike on the outside.
Keep the label, or note it down
If you cut out the label because it itches, note the care instructions before it disappears. It is easy to forget which temperature applied, and washing at the wrong temperature can wear the fabric. Many take a photo of the label with their phone so they can look it up later when needed. This goes for bamboo tops for women too.
Frequently asked questions
What does viscose mean on the label of bamboo panties
Viscose is a fabric made from cellulose, and in bamboo clothing the cellulose comes from bamboo. Bamboo in clothing is therefore viscose from bamboo, and the two words cover the same material.
Why does it also say elastane on the label
Elastane or a similar fibre gives stretch, so the panties follow the body and move with you. If only a little is listed, the fabric gives less, and then you should take the size seriously.
Can I cut out the label if it itches
Yes, but note the care instructions first, so you know how to wash the panties afterwards. Many take a photo of the label before they cut it out.
