Is Bamboo Underwear Any Good? The Honest Answer

Short answer: Yes, bamboo underwear is good, and for most people noticeably better than cotton. It is softer, more breathable and keeps you dry. But it is not magic: it needs a gentle wash, and bamboo viscose is made chemically from bamboo. Here is the honest balance sheet.

What bamboo underwear does better

You feel the softness immediately, and the moisture wicking means dry, fresh conditions all day. Many people with sensitive skin also experience less irritation. See the range of bamboo underwear for men and bamboo underwear for women.

What you should be honest about

Bamboo viscose requires chemical processing, and you can read the honest run through in the guide to bamboo and the environment. And the clothes prefer to be washed at 30-40 degrees without the tumble dryer, as described in the washing guide.

The verdict

If you wear the underwear every day, the gain in comfort is big compared to the extra care in the wash. Start with bamboo boxer shorts or bamboo briefs, and read the complete underwear guide first if you like.

Frequently asked questions

Is bamboo underwear really that good?

Yes, for most people. It is softer, more breathable and better with moisture than cotton. On the other hand it needs a gentle wash and typically costs more.

What are the downsides of bamboo underwear?

It does not handle high wash temperatures or the tumble dryer as well as cotton, and making bamboo viscose requires chemistry.

Which bamboo underwear should I choose first?

Choose what you wear the most: boxer shorts or briefs. That is where you notice the difference from day one.