What hygroscopic means about a fabric

Short answer: Hygroscopic means the fibre can take up moisture from its surroundings. Bamboo viscose is hygroscopic, and that is why the fabric can move sweat away from the skin.

Takes up moisture from the air

A hygroscopic fibre draws moisture to itself, including from the air in the room. That is why the fabric rarely becomes static.

Moves sweat away

The moisture is taken up into the fibre and carried out into the fabric, where it can evaporate.

Unlike synthetic fibres

Polyester takes up almost no moisture. It moves water on the surface instead, which works differently.

That is why bamboo does not go static

Static electricity needs dry material. A fibre that holds a little moisture leads the charge away. See antistatic clothes.

That is why it takes longer to dry

Moisture in the fibre also means a longer drying time than for synthetic fabrics. That is the flip side of the same property.

Where it is noticed

In underwear, socks and bedding the difference is felt most clearly. See bamboo underwear for men.

See also

More on the subject in moisture wicking.

In bed

Under the duvet the body gives off moisture all night. A hygroscopic fibre takes it up rather than letting it gather against the skin. See bamboo bedding.

In socks

The foot gives off the most moisture of the whole body. That is why the difference is felt most clearly in socks. See all bamboo socks for men.

Frequently asked questions

Is hygroscopic good?

For clothes close to the skin, yes. It gives better moisture transport and less static electricity.

Why does bamboo clothing dry more slowly than sportswear?

Because the moisture sits in the fibre and not only on the surface.

Does bamboo clothing become static?

Rarely. The fibre holds a little moisture, which leads the charge away.