Blends of bamboo and cotton
Short answer: A blend of bamboo viscose and cotton combines the firmness of cotton with the softness of viscose. The higher the share of viscose, the softer and more fluid the fabric, and the more cotton, the firmer it feels.
Why blend
Cotton gives fabric body and durability, while viscose adds softness and drape. The blend is a compromise between the two. Many makers blend because they want a fabric that feels soft but still keeps its shape well in daily use. The result sits somewhere between the two extremes.
Read the percentages
The fibre content is listed on the label in descending order, so the fibre with the largest share comes first. A garment with more viscose feels softer than one with more cotton. A little elastane adds extra stretch. Always check the label before you buy, so you know what you are getting.
What you can feel
A high cotton share gives a firmer, more matte fabric that feels drier in the hand. A high viscose share gives a smoother fabric with more drape and a slight sheen. You notice the difference most when you lay two tops side by side and let the fabric slide between your fingers.
Washing
Blends are washed according to the most delicate fibre, which means as viscose: 40 degrees and no tumble dryer. Use a mild detergent and skip the fabric softener. Lay the garment flat or hang it to dry so it does not pull out of shape. See the washing guide for more advice.
Shape and shrinking
Viscose can shrink a little if washed too hot or tumble dried, and cotton can also contract. A blend therefore reacts to heat much like the two fibres do on their own. Follow the care label and gently ease the garment back into shape while it is still damp after washing.
Pure viscose
If you want the softest option, look for a high share of viscose. It gives a light fabric that feels smooth on the skin and drapes well. It suits t-shirts and underwear you wear close to the body all day. See bamboo t-shirts for men for examples of these basics.
Pure cotton
If durability and a firm look matter most, pure cotton may be the right choice. Cotton handles hotter washes and often gets tougher with use. On the other hand it feels less smooth and can turn clammy when you sweat. See the comparison in bamboo versus cotton for a closer look.
What the blend suits
A blend is a good choice for pieces that should hold their shape but still feel soft, such as sweatshirts, joggers and heavier t-shirts. For underwear and nightwear many prefer a higher share of viscose, since those pieces sit closer to the skin. Think about how you will use the piece first.
How the fabric ages
Cotton often gets softer over time, while viscose keeps its smooth surface if washed gently. A blend therefore changes a little with use, usually towards a more relaxed, softer fabric. Wear shows most often at elbows, sides and collar, where the fabric rubs the most.
See also
If you want to know more about what the viscose in the blend actually is and how the fibre is made, read on in what is bamboo viscose. There we explain the material in more depth, so you can read a label and judge what you are buying.
Frequently asked questions
Is a blend worse than pure viscose?
No, it is different. The blend gives more firmness and often better shape retention, while pure viscose is softer with more drape. It depends on what you want to use it for.
What temperature should a blend be washed at?
Wash according to the most delicate fibre, which means as viscose. That usually means no more than 40 degrees, a mild detergent and no tumble dryer, unless the label says otherwise.
How can I tell which fibre dominates?
The fibre content is listed on the label in descending order. The first fibre on the list has the largest share and largely decides how the fabric feels.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
