Viscose or bamboo and what the label says
Short answer: The label usually says viscose, while the product page or name says bamboo. Both can be right, because bamboo in clothing is viscose from bamboo. Viscose is the fibre, and bamboo is the plant the cellulose comes from.
Two words for almost the same thing
Viscose and bamboo describe two different things. Viscose says what kind of fibre it is, and bamboo says something about the raw material. That is why a garment can have bamboo in its name and viscose on the label without any contradiction.
Why the label usually says viscose
The rules for fibre names mean that fibres made this way are normally stated as viscose. Bamboo then names the raw material and appears in the product name or description. It is not an attempt to hide anything but a way of naming fibres.
What to look for
Read the label to see the material and any other fibres, such as elastane. Also look at the care instructions. The product page may say which raw material the viscose is made from. Both give a more complete picture when you look at bamboo dresses.
What the percentages mean
If the label shows several materials, they may be given with percentages. That tells you what the fabric consists of in total. You can see whether the fabric is pure viscose or mixed with something else. Read the numbers as information about the fabric, not as a judgement of quality.
When the product is called bamboo
If the name is bamboo but the label says viscose, nothing is necessarily wrong. If there is no information about viscose or any other material, you can ask the seller. A clear label is part of being able to trust what you buy.
Care follows the material
Viscose can be sensitive to heat and rough treatment, so follow the care label. Wash gently and dry without too much heat. That applies whether the product is called bamboo or viscose. Also look at bamboo clothing for women.
Ask when something is unclear
If you are unsure what the label means, you can ask the seller or look at the product page. It is better to ask than to assume. Even a short explanation can clear up many misunderstandings about the material and care.
Use the information to choose
Once you know the difference between viscose and bamboo, it is easier to choose. Compare material, fit and care, and look at bamboo tops for women, for example. Use the label as your basis and do not let the name alone decide.
Frequently asked questions
Are bamboo and viscose the same
Almost. Viscose is a fibre, and bamboo is the raw material it can be made from. Bamboo in clothing is viscose from bamboo, so both words can appear on the same product.
Why does the label say viscose when the product is called bamboo
Fibres made this way are normally named viscose on the label, while bamboo names the raw material. The two statements do not contradict each other.
What do I do if the label is unclear
Ask the seller or look at the product page. Find information about material and care, and choose only when you know what the fabric consists of.
