Fabric Softener and Bamboo – Why You Should Skip It
Short answer: Skip fabric softener for bamboo. Fabric softener leaves a greasy coating on the fibres that blocks the natural moisture transport of bamboo viscose and makes clothes less breathable. Bamboo is soft on its own and does not need it at all.
What does fabric softener do to bamboo fibres?
Fabric softener works by leaving a thin film of wax and fats on the textile. On cotton this can feel softer, but on bamboo viscose the film seals the surface of the fibres. Sweat is then no longer carried away from the skin, and that property is often the reason people choose bamboo.
Bamboo is already soft
The fibres of bamboo viscose are smooth and soft by nature, so fabric softener adds no real softness. On the contrary, the film can make the fabric feel flat and lifeless over time. The soft drape bamboo is known for comes from the fibre itself, not from anything added in the wash.
The film can trap odours
When the fibres are covered by a film, it becomes harder for the detergent to reach in and remove sweat and skin oils. Residue can build up wash after wash, and clothes may start to smell even though they were just washed. This is most noticeable on items worn close to the skin all day.
Socks feel the difference
Socks work hard, because feet sweat in shoes all day, and moisture transport decides whether your feet feel dry. Both bamboo socks for men and bamboo socks for women do best without fabric softener, so the fibre can do its job.
Towels lose absorbency
A towel is meant to absorb water, and that absorbency suffers when the fibres are covered by a greasy film. Many people find that towels washed with softener feel soft but push the water around instead of soaking it up. Wash bamboo towels without any fabric softener.
What to do instead
Wash with a mild liquid detergent without bleach at 30 to 40 degrees, and let the clothes air dry. That way you keep both the softness and the breathability. Dose according to the instructions and rather on the low side, because too much detergent can also leave residue in the fabric.
What about vinegar in the rinse?
Some people add a small amount of household vinegar to the softener compartment to remove detergent residue. It is not necessary for a normal wash, but it can be an option if clothes feel heavy with residue. Always check your washing machine manual first, and use only a modest amount.
How to get the softness back
If you have used fabric softener for a while, the film usually disappears gradually over a few washes without it. Wash a couple of times with mild detergent and no softener, and dry the clothes on a rack. Most people find the fabric feels light and airy again once the residue is gone.
Drying matters too
The tumble dryer can create a softness similar to that of fabric softener, but the heat wears on bamboo fibres and can make clothes shrink. Hang your clothes on a rack or a hanger instead. Bamboo releases moisture quickly and often dries faster than cotton, even indoors.
In short
Fabric softener brings no benefit to bamboo and can take away the very qualities that make the material pleasant to wear. A mild detergent, a low temperature and air drying are all bamboo clothing needs. It is simpler and cheaper in the long run. See also bamboo and temperature regulation and complete washing guide for bamboo clothing.
Frequently asked questions
Can you use fabric softener on bamboo clothing?
It is not recommended. Fabric softener coats the fibres, which reduces moisture transport and breathability, and bamboo is already soft enough without it.
Why does my bamboo towel absorb poorly?
It is often caused by fabric softener residue or too much detergent. Wash it a few times with mild detergent and no fabric softener at all.
What if I have already used fabric softener?
Wash the clothes a few times without softener and with a small dose of mild detergent. The film usually fades gradually, and the fabric regains its lightness.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
