Washing bamboo viscose bedding and the right temperature
Short answer: Bedding made from bamboo viscose is best washed gently, and the right temperature is the one on the care label of your own bedding. As a rule of thumb, low to moderate heat and a light programme are the safest. Here are tips for washing, drying and fit.
Start with the care label
Every brand and weave is different, so the most important rule is to read the care label on the bedding you actually own. It tells you which temperature and programme suit your fabric. If the label has worn away, a gentle programme at a low temperature is the safest choice.
Which temperature is right
Viscose from bamboo usually handles moderate heat best, and a high temperature raises the risk that the fabric shrinks and loses its shape. A lower temperature is kinder to colours and fibres. For everyday use a gentle wash is often enough, and with bamboo bedding you often save a little on energy too.
Sort and close fastenings
Wash viscose bedding with similar fabrics in similar colours, and avoid heavy items such as jeans or towels with rough edges. Close covers and buttons so they do not catch on other things in the drum. Do not fill the machine completely, because the fabric needs room to move freely.
Detergent and fabric softener
A mild detergent without strong additives suits most fibres, and you should use the amount the pack recommends for your machine size. Fabric softener is rarely needed and can settle in the fabric, so it feels less airy. If your skin is sensitive, you can add one extra rinse.
Tumble dryer or drying rack
Drying is where many sets run into trouble. Strong heat in a tumble dryer can make viscose shrink and stiffen, so choose low heat or let the bedding air dry. Take it out while it is still slightly damp and shake it out well, so it does not dry in creases.
Iron only if you like
Viscose creases easily, but bedding does not have to be perfectly smooth to be pleasant to sleep in. If you want to iron, use a low to medium temperature and iron on the reverse while the fabric is a little damp. Many people simply shake the bedding out and fold it neatly.
How often bedding should be washed
That depends on how you sleep and what the season brings. Most people wash their bedding about once a week or every second week, and more often if you sweat at night. With more than one set, each wears less, and you can change without rushing the wash.
Think about the whole sleep set
If you are washing the bedding anyway, it makes sense to include the rest of the sleep set. Bedding and sleepwear of a similar kind can usually be washed together, but always check the labels first. Take a look at all bamboo socks for women and women's Bamboo Pajama Shirt and read their care instructions.
Frequently asked questions
Can bamboo viscose bedding be washed at 60 degrees?
That depends on the care label, so check the label in your bedding first. If in doubt, a lower temperature and a gentle programme is the safe way, because viscose can shrink in high heat.
Can the bedding go in the tumble dryer?
Only if the label allows it, and then on low heat. The gentlest option is to air dry, or to take it out slightly damp and shake it out thoroughly.
Do I need fabric softener?
It is rarely needed and can make the fabric less airy. Use an extra rinse instead if you want to remove detergent residue, especially if your skin is sensitive.
