What you should know about bamboo clothing in general
Short answer: Bamboo viscose is a cellulose fibre that is soft, drapes heavily and moves moisture away from the skin throughout the day. It tolerates less heat than cotton in washing and drying, and it should never have fabric softener if the moisture transport is to keep working.
What it actually is
A regenerated cellulose fibre made from bamboo pulp through a chemical process that dissolves and rebuilds the cellulose into new threads. That is why the official label says viscose, not bamboo. See facts about bamboo.
What it is good for
Underwear, socks, sleepwear and anything else that sits close to the skin for many hours at a time. The fibre's ability to move moisture away makes exactly that kind of clothing more comfortable than it would be in many other materials. See bamboo underwear for men.
What it is not good for
Stiff, sharp shapes and outer layers meant to keep rain out, because the fibre does not have the same structure as more tightly woven fabrics. Other materials suit those purposes better than bamboo viscose does. See bamboo T-shirts for men.
How it is cared for correctly
Forty degrees, no fabric softener, inside out in the machine, and low heat when tumble drying. Together these four habits keep colour, moisture transport and elastic in good shape far longer than random washing does. See washing and care.
Where to start in the range
Underwear and socks give the most back per kroner, because they get worn more times per week than almost any other type of clothing in a normal wardrobe. See all bamboo socks for men and bamboo underwear for women.
Compared with cotton in everyday use
Cotton absorbs more moisture but holds onto it, while bamboo viscose moves the moisture on to the air or the outer layer. That gives a drier feeling against the skin, especially during active parts of the day or night.
Compared with synthetic fibres
Synthetic fibres like polyester also move moisture, but they often start smelling faster because bacteria thrive better on that material. Bamboo viscose has a more natural structure that causes less odour under the same use and the same sweat.
The price reflects the process
Making bamboo viscose requires more steps than ordinary cotton production, which can show up in the price of the finished garment. In return, the piece often lasts longer if it is cared for correctly from the very first wash.
Frequently asked questions
What exactly is bamboo viscose?
A regenerated cellulose fibre made from bamboo pulp through a chemical process. The official label says viscose, not bamboo, even though the raw material comes from the plant.
What is bamboo viscose best used for?
Underwear, socks and sleepwear, meaning anything that sits close to the skin for many hours. That is where the moisture transport matters most in everyday life.
How do you care for bamboo viscose correctly?
Forty degrees, no fabric softener, inside out in the machine, and low heat when tumble drying. These four habits keep the garment in good shape far longer.
See our range of Copenhagen Bamboo.
