Expensive vs. Cheap Bamboo Clothing – What Is the Difference?
Short answer: The difference between expensive and cheap bamboo clothing rarely lies in the word bamboo, but in the fibre quality, the weight of the fabric, the stitching and the fit. Good bamboo clothing keeps its softness and shape wash after wash, while the cheapest often turns thin, pills and loses its shape quickly.
Expensive vs Cheap Bamboo Clothing: Where Is the Difference Hiding?
Two tops can both be called bamboo and still be worlds apart. Look at the weight and density of the fabric, at whether a good fibre quality has been used, and at details such as reinforced seams and elastic that holds. The blend ratio matters too: a high proportion of bamboo viscose gives you the soft, breathable feel the material is known for.
Certifications and Honesty
Serious manufacturers have their textiles tested. Look for OEKO-TEX, which you will find on many of our items under OEKO-TEX certified items. And be sceptical of wild claims; bamboo viscose is made chemically from bamboo, and no honest retailer promises miracles. Read more in the article about the truth about bamboo textiles.
When Does Quality Pay Off?
For everyday workhorses like underwear and socks, quality pays off fastest, because they are washed most often. A good piece of bamboo underwear for men or women survives many more washes. We have done the maths in the article about bamboo and economics.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is there such a big difference between bamboo garments?
Because fibre quality, fabric weight, blend ratio and stitching all vary. The word bamboo alone says nothing about the quality of the finished item.
How do I recognise good quality?
Feel the weight and density of the fabric, check the seams, and look for certifications such as OEKO-TEX along with an honest material description.
Can cheap bamboo clothing be good enough?
For things you rarely use, perhaps. But for underwear and socks that are washed constantly, good quality lasts longer and is the better buy in the long run.
