With elastic at the waist or with a button
Short answer: Elastic at the waist is soft and easy to put on, while a button gives a firmer fit. Choose elastic for night and everyday, and a button if you want the clothes to sit precisely.
Elastic at the waist
Elastic at the waist adapts to the body and gives freedom of movement. It is the most common choice for nightwear, because it is quick to put on and does not pinch when you lie down. The elastic can press if it is narrow, though, and after many washes it can lose strength. A wide elastic spreads the pressure better and sits more comfortably. For the night it is often the simplest and most pleasant solution.
Button or drawstring
A button gives a firmer and more precise fit, and you can adjust how snug it is. That is useful if you do not want the clothes to slip, or if your waist varies. The drawback is that a hard button can press on the stomach when you lie down. It is used mostly in daywear, not nightwear. If you choose a button for the night, it should be small, flat and soft.
Nightwear and the waist
For nightwear the most important thing is that the waist does not pinch when you lie on your side or stomach. See bamboo sleepwear for women, where the waist is often soft and loose. Many choose elastic at the waist and a soft edge that leaves no marks. If you have sensitive skin or a waist that changes, a soft elastic is often the most comfortable.
Slips and dresses without a waist
Garments such as slips have no waist and hang from the shoulders. That means you need neither elastic nor a button. See bamboo slip, which falls loosely and suits many body shapes. Choose one with adjustable straps so you can adapt the length. It is a good choice if you do not like anything around your stomach.
Night tops and combinations
A night top is worn together with trousers or shorts, and here it is the trousers that decide the waist solution. See bamboo night tops for women. Choose a top long enough to cover the waist, so no cold gap appears between top and trousers. If you want a soft combination, choose a top and trousers with soft elastic so you feel nothing.
Our recommendation by situation
Choose elastic at the waist for the night, for home and anything where you want comfort. Choose a button or drawstring if you want a firm fit or clothes you go out in. For sleep, soft, wide elastic is normally best. When in doubt, try the clothes and notice whether the waist presses when you sit and lie. A waist you do not feel is the right one.
Frequently asked questions
Can elastic leave marks
Yes, if it is narrow or tight. A wide, soft elastic leaves fewer marks.
What is best for the night
A soft elastic at the waist is usually most comfortable, because it does not press when you lie down.
Does elastic lose strength after washing
Over time it can lose some, especially with hot washing and a tumble dryer. Wash at a low temperature to spare it.
