Bamboo viscose versus microfibre

Short answer: Microfiber is extremely thin synthetic fibers that dry fast and weigh very little. Bamboo viscose feels softer against the skin and does not release plastic when washed.

What microfiber actually is

Microfiber is polyester or polyamide spun into very thin threads, far thinner than a human hair can ever become naturally. The large surface area makes the fabric effective at moving water away quickly, which is why it is often used for cleaning cloths and some sportswear, where fast drying matters more than softness against skin.

In clothing worn against the skin

Microfiber can feel soft on first touch, but does not let air pass through the way a cellulose fiber does over time. Many people find it turns clammy after an hour of activity or even just regular everyday use. Bamboo viscose absorbs moisture directly into the fiber and therefore feels drier. See bamboo underwear for women.

Odor after use over time

Microfiber holds onto oils from the skin and starts to smell relatively quickly compared to natural and regenerated fibers in general. This is why sportswear made from microfiber often needs washing after every single use, even for shorter training sessions. See bamboo t shirt for women as an alternative that smells less over time.

Microplastics in every single wash

Microfiber sheds small plastic fibers in every wash, and these fibers often end up in waterways because treatment plants cannot catch all of them. Bamboo viscose is made from cellulose and therefore does not release plastic the same way during washing. See bamboo clothing for women for alternatives without this problem in daily use.

Weight and packability when traveling

Microfiber weighs very little and barely takes up space in a suitcase or backpack, which makes it ideal for travel towels and light layers on the go. Bamboo viscose takes up a bit more space and weighs slightly more per garment in comparison. In daily use at home this matters less, but while traveling the difference is noticeable.

Drying time compared directly

Microfiber dries faster than most other fabrics, because the thin fibers have an enormously large surface area relative to their weight. Bamboo viscose dries slower, but still faster than regular cotton does in most cases. If drying time matters most to you, microfiber wins, but the cost is odor and a more synthetic feeling against the skin.

Price level between the two

Microfiber is typically cheaper to produce than bamboo viscose, which often shows on the price tag in stores for comparable items. Bamboo viscose costs a bit more, but many find the comfort and better smell over time worth the price difference for clothing worn close to the body for long periods every day.

Care and longevity in the closet

Both fibers tolerate machine washing, but microfiber can melt or get damaged at high heat in the dryer, so low temperature is important to remember when washing it. Bamboo viscose should also be washed at low temperature to last as long as possible. Neither fiber should be ironed at high heat, no matter how rushed the morning is.

What you should choose in practice

If clothing needs to dry super fast and take up as little space as possible on the go, microfiber is the obvious choice for that specific situation. If it needs to sit against the skin all day without smelling or feeling clammy, bamboo viscose is better. The two fibers therefore suit different purposes in a wardrobe.