How many degrees bamboo clothes may be washed at

Short answer: How many degrees bamboo clothes may be washed at is stated on the care label in each garment. As a rule of thumb low to moderate heat is gentle on the fabric, but the label always has the last word. If you are in doubt, choose the lower temperature.

The label has the last word

There is not one temperature that applies to all bamboo clothing, because it depends on the fabric, the colour and how the garment is made. That is why the care label in the garment is your most important source. It shows the highest temperature the manufacturer recommends. Keep the label or take a photo of it if it is otherwise cut out. If you cannot find it, the safest choice is low heat and a gentle programme.

Low heat spares the fabric

As a general rule of thumb, low to moderate heat is gentle on most textiles, including viscose from bamboo. Higher heat can make the fabric shrink, lose colour and wear faster. That also applies to elastic, which can go slack. Many wash everyday clothes at low heat and save energy at the same time. If bedding or a towel must be washed for hygiene reasons, check the label before you raise the temperature. See bamboo fitted sheets as an example of how even large textiles should be washed gently.

Socks and close fitting clothes

Socks and underwear sit close to the skin and are washed often. Gentle washing is an advantage here, because it keeps the shape and the elastic. Turn them inside out and wash them with similar items. See bamboo socks for men and bamboo tennis socks for men. Use mild detergent and avoid too much of it. An extra rinse can be a good idea if you have sensitive skin. If you have skin problems, talk to your doctor about how best to wash the clothes.

Sorting by colour and fabric

Sort the clothes by colour, so that dark items do not bleed onto light ones. Wash new coloured pieces on their own the first few times, so you can see whether the colour runs. Also sort by fabric, so that heavy clothes do not wear thin ones. A laundry bag can protect the most delicate items. Do not overfill the drum, as that worsens both washing and rinsing. If the clothes are very dirty, a pre-wash or treating stains by hand can help more than a higher temperature.

Fabric softener and drying

Avoid fabric softener, which can settle on the fibres and make them less breathable. Let the clothes dry with air around them, and use a tumble dryer only if the label allows it, and then at low heat. High heat during drying can do as much harm as high heat during washing. Take the clothes out while they are a little damp and hang them to finish. Then they become soft, get fewer creases and the fabric keeps its shape.

When you are in doubt

If you have a garment with no label, or with an unclear one, choose low heat, turn it inside out and use a gentle programme. You can try washing a less visible piece first. Ask the shop or the manufacturer if you want a safe answer. It is always better to start carefully and raise the temperature if need be than to risk damaging a good garment. With a little care bamboo clothes last a long time.

Frequently asked questions

How many degrees may bamboo clothes be washed at

It is stated on the care label in each garment. Low to moderate heat is gentle as a rule of thumb. If you are in doubt, choose lower.

Can I wash bamboo clothes with other clothes

Yes, if colours and fabrics suit each other. Sort by colour and weight and use a laundry bag for the most delicate items.

Can bamboo clothes be tumble dried

Check the label. If it is allowed, use low heat and take the clothes out while still a little damp.

See our range of Copenhagen Bamboo.