Bamboo Fabric: Is It Better Than Cotton?

You've probably heard a lot about bamboo fabric being the next big thing in sustainable living, right?

It's praised for its eco-friendly credentials and versatility. But before you rush to switch out all your textiles, let's dive into why bamboo might not be the best choice for everything, especially when it comes to self-care products that touch your skin.

In this blog, we'll explore the real deal about 'organic' bamboo fabric and why other options such as organic cotton may be a better choice for the fabrics of your life, including clothing and Castor Oil Packs.

Let's get into the details, shall we?

What is bamboo fabric?

Maybe you find yourself wondering what exactly bamboo fabric is?

Bamboo, which belongs to the grass family Poaceae and the subfamily Bambusoideae, is known for its environmental benefits.1

Bamboo is an incredibly versatile plant that's making waves for its many uses. From sturdy furniture and beautiful flooring to bedding and more, it's clear that bamboo is a powerhouse of a plant. Its fast growth makes it a sustainable choice for various products.

However, when it comes to clothing, bamboo might not be the best option. While it's marketed as eco-friendly, turning bamboo into soft fabric often requires harsh chemicals, which can be problematic. In fact, 'organic bamboo' can't actually be certified organic because of the heavy use of toxic chemicals when it's being processed.2

You see, in the construction industry, the strength of bamboo has been compared to steel, and it has two times the compressive strength of concrete!3 So because the fibers are so strong, many toxic caustic chemicals are needed to soften the fibers and make them feel even softer than cotton.

So, while bamboo has many great qualities, it's worth considering the downsides when it comes to wearing it or using it with Castor Oil for Castor Oil Packs, since it's a master carrier oil.

How is bamboo fabric made?

According to an article written by the Federal Trade Commission for consumer advice, bamboo is a fast-growing plant that doesn't need many pesticides and is often used in eco-friendly products.

However, when bamboo is turned into fabric that's marketed as "soft," "silky," or "cool," it's usually made into rayon or viscose, a process where its cellulose is dissolved in a chemical solution to form a thick, pulpy substance.

This substance is then spun into fibers, which can be further processed into threads and woven into fabric. The end result? Rayon fabric and clear cellulose film created with toxic chemicals.

So, while bamboo is often praised as a sustainable and versatile resource, the manufacturing process can be quite controversial. While bamboo products are frequently marketed as 'eco-friendly', 'biodegradable', and 'organic', these labels don't always reflect reality.

The methods used to turn bamboo into various products can sometimes undermine its green reputation, making it important to look beyond the labels so you can understand the true environmental impact of these items.

Types of bamboo fabric

Are there different types of bamboo fabric? Yes!

Bamboo fabric comes in three main types, each manufactured differently to suit various preferences and needs:

Bamboo viscose

Bamboo viscose is a blend of natural and synthetic fibers. It's made using a process called "viscose," where cellulose fibers from plants like bamboo are transformed.

This makes bamboo viscose a unique semi-synthetic fabric, sitting right between natural and fully synthetic materials.

A blog by The Honest Consumer talks about the Federal Trade Commission cracking down on improper labeling, giving out fines to companies trying to sell 'bamboo clothing' without the proper label of "rayon made from bamboo".

Rayon made from bamboo is also known as bamboo rayon or bamboo viscose.

Lyocell Bamboo

According to Google Patents, the process for production of lyocell fiber with bamboo material is made through a more environmentally-friendly process compared to Viscose Bamboo.

In the production of Lyocell Bamboo, bamboo is first crushed and turned into pulp. This pulp is then cleaned with a dense alkali solution, rinsed, and dried to produce bamboo cellulose. The cellulose is dissolved in a special solvent called N-methyl morpholine and then processed under heat to create a spinning slurry. This slurry is extruded through fine holes, solidified in water, and spun into Lyocell fibers.

This method is known for its closed-loop system, which recycles solvents and reduces waste, making it more eco-friendly.

In contrast, the Viscose Bamboo process involves more chemicals and generates more waste. So, while both are made from bamboo, Lyocell Bamboo is a bit more of a 'greener' option with a more sustainable production process, but not necessarily more health-friendly.

Fine Bamboo

You might hear "fine bamboo" referred to as bamboo fiber, and it's known for being a bit of a production challenge.

A blog by Bamboo Is Better, described the process to create fine bamboo as quite labor-intensive, involving the physical breakdown of bamboo into a pulp.

Compared to other bamboo fabrics like bamboo lyocell and bamboo viscose, fine bamboo results in a coarser and less comfortable material. So, while it may be a more health-friendly option, it might not be as soft or smooth as some of the other bamboo textiles out there when it comes to your skin.

Advantages & disadvantages of bamboo fabric

Now that we've touched on the different types of bamboo fabrics, let's take a closer look at what some of the advantages and disadvantages are when it comes to bamboo fabric.

Advantages of Bamboo Fabric

Bamboo fabric isn't all bad, and may be an alright choice for clothing considering some of the following advantages:

  • Comfort and breathability
  • Resistance to wrinkles
  • Moisture wicking action
  • Protection from the sun

Disadvantages of Bamboo Fabric

A blog by Green Compostables, describes some of the potential disadvantages to bamboo fabric:

  • Hazardous emissions during processing
  • Made with toxic chemicals to yield a fabric material
  • Shrinks faster than other textiles
  • Expensive, lengthy and labor-intensive process

These are all important factors to consider, especially if you're considering using bamboo fabric for your Castor Oil Packs. Remember, Castor Oil is a carrier oil and should only be used with organic materials touching your skin.

Is bamboo fabric safe?

With all the back and forth on what's good and not-so-good when it comes to bamboo fabrics, it can make navigating this controversial topic challenging, agreed?

As a conscious consumer, you're sourcing out what you believe to be the best for your body. Whether it's clothing, food or other, when it comes to bamboo as a safe, 'natural' fabric choice, it becomes a little cloudy on how 'green' this textile really is.

Let's explore further!

The truth about 'organic' bamboo

If you're passionate about fashion but also want to do your part for the planet, you might find yourself caught between a rock and a hard place.

The fashion industry isn't exactly known for its sustainability, and with tricky marketing tactics, even the most eco-conscious shoppers can get misled by greenwashing (when a company or brand makes misleading claims about how environmentally-friendly or sustainable their products are).

So, where does organic bamboo as a fabric stand when it comes to greenwashing?

Recently, the Federal Trade Commission has had to flag several brands for falsely labeling their bamboo products as "organic."

Even the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which is the top authority on organic products and materials, hasn't certified any bamboo products as truly "organic."

This brings us to the next question, 'Why bamboo fabric falls short for clothing, bedding and Castor Oil Packs'. Keep reading!

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Why bamboo fabric falls short for clothing, bedding, and Castor Oil Packs

Once bamboo undergoes processing to create soft fabric, it loses some of its natural qualities. For instance, while bamboo plants can naturally fend off bacteria4, it's unlikely that rayon fabric made from processed bamboo retains this antibacterial property.

Plus, the Federal Trade Commission explains that authentic bamboo fabric that might have antibacterial benefits tends to be rough or scratchy and isn't commonly found in everyday items like clothing or bedding that you touch regularly.

This theory can also apply to Castor Oil Packs, which sit snug against your skin.

When choosing materials for Castor Oil Packs, bamboo fabric might seem like an eco-friendly and soft option at first glance, however, there are some reasons why it may not be the ideal choice for this particular use:

1. Absorbency: Bamboo fabric is known for its moisture-wicking properties, but when it comes to Castor Oil Packs, a less absorbent fabric is best. This is because the Castor Oil is meant to absorb into your skin, so Castor Oil Packs work best with a material that isn't super absorbent when held snug against the skin for an extended period of time.

2. Durability & longevity: Castor Oil Packs are intended for repeated use over time. Bamboo fabric, though sustainable and biodegradable5, may not hold up as well to frequent wear and tear associated with regular Castor Oil Pack usage.

3. Natural properties vs. synthetic blends: While some bamboo fabric is close-to-natural, most varieties are blended with synthetic fibers for added softness and durability. Castor Oil should only ever be used with organic materials touching the skin for Castor Oil Packs.

The organic cotton alternative

By this point, you've likely read about organic cotton, and may even hear it compared to bamboo fabric.

Maybe you're wondering if one is better than the other, and what makes organic cotton a potentially more appealing option for things like your bedding, clothing and Castor Oil Packs?

Not to worry, you're still in the right place!

Let's discover what makes organic cotton a sustainable, eco-friendly and skin-friendly choice, shall we?

Benefits of organic cotton

1. Clothing: Organic cotton clothing is highly valued for its softness, breathability, and hypoallergenic properties.6 It's gentle on the skin, making it comfortable to wear all day without causing irritation. If you have sensitive skin, organic cotton is a natural, comfortable alternative to synthetic fabrics.

2. Bedding: Organic cotton bedding offers a luxurious feel and excellent breathability, helping to regulate your body temperature.7 It keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter. Plus, organic cotton is durable and, with proper care, can last much longer than other materials.

3. Castor Oil Packs: When used in Castor Oil Packs the soft texture of organic cotton ensures comfort during extended use, even while you sleep, making self-care simple, relaxing, and comfortable. Sounds wonderful, agreed?

Why Queen of the Thrones® Castor Oil Packs are made with organic cotton

At Queen of the Thrones®, we're all about supporting your wellness journey with products that you can truly trust. That's why when it comes to our Castor Oil Packs, we opt for the best: organic cotton.

The why behind this choice?

1. Premium quality for your skin: Your skin deserves the best, and organic cotton delivers just that. It's soft and gentle, making it perfect for something as nurturing as a Castor Oil Pack for your self-care.

2. Materials you can trust: Trust is everything, agreed? This is especially true when selecting the products you use to care for your body. Organic cotton is grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers8, it's a pure, natural choice that aligns with your commitment to natural, consumer-conscious living.

3. Supports your skin's natural balance: Unlike synthetic fabrics, organic cotton is breathable and hypoallergenic. It helps maintain your skin's natural balance, supporting those with sensitive skin, and ensuring comfort during your Castor Oil Pack self-care time.

4. Environmental & ethical considerations: Choosing organic cotton isn't just good for you; it's good for the planet too! It supports sustainable farming practices that protect our environment.9 Sounds wonderful, right?

You see, when you choose Queen of the Thrones® Organic Castor Oil Packs, you're choosing more than just a product- you're choosing a partner in your wellness journey. We believe in the power of natural, high-quality materials that elevate your self-care, nurture your body and support your overall well-being.

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In closing…

As we wrap up our exploration of bamboo fabric and its place in our wardrobe, bedding, and self-care routines, it's clear that navigating eco-friendly choices isn't always straightforward.

Bamboo's natural properties and soft feel can be tempting, but the reality of greenwashing and processing challenges remind us to stay vigilant.

Choosing what touches our skin daily- whether it's clothing, bedding or Castor Oil Packs- deserves thoughtful consideration, agreed? While bamboo presents itself as a sustainable option, the reality is more conflicted.

From chemical processing concerns, to claims of eco-friendliness that don't always hold up, it's crucial to look beyond the marketing hype.

Organic cotton emerges as a trustworthy alternative. Grown without synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, it supports soil health and biodiversity.

Ultimately as consumers, we have the power to demand transparency and sustainability in the products we bring into our lives. By supporting brands committed to ethical practices and choosing materials like organic cotton, we not only safeguard our own well-being, but also contribute positively to the planet.

So my friend, whether you're wrapping yourself in a cozy hoodie, snuggling into bed, or practicing self-care with a Castor Oil Pack, let's choose consciously and responsibly. Your skin deserves nothing less, agreed?

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References

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  2. Bamboo Fiber Processing, Properties, and Applications. Biomass and Bioenergy, 2014

  3. Esti Asih Nurdiah, The Potential of Bamboo as Building Material in Organic Shaped Buildings. Procedia - Social and Behavioral Sciences, Volume 216, 2016, Pages 30-38, ISSN 1877-0428, https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S1877042815061844

  4. Ramful R, Sunthar TPM, Kamei K, Pezzotti G. Investigating the Antibacterial Characteristics of Japanese Bamboo. Antibiotics (Basel). 2022 Apr 24;11(5):569. doi: 10.3390/antibiotics11050569. PMID: 35625213; PMCID: PMC9137583.

  5. Xu D, He S, Leng W, Chen Y, Wu Z. Replacing Plastic with Bamboo: A Review of the Properties and Green Applications of Bamboo-Fiber-Reinforced Polymer Composites. Polymers (Basel). 2023 Oct 31;15(21):4276. doi: 10.3390/polym15214276. PMID: 37959955; PMCID: PMC10647463.

  6. Abou Elmaaty TM, Elsisi H, Elsayad G, Elhadad H, Plutino MR. Recent Advances in Functionalization of Cotton Fabrics with Nanotechnology. Polymers (Basel). 2022 Oct 12;14(20):4273. doi: 10.3390/polym14204273. PMID: 36297850; PMCID: PMC9608714.

  7. Özkan ET, Kaplangiray B, Şekir U, Şahin Ş. Effect of different garments on thermophysiological and psychological comfort properties of athletes in a wear trial test. Sci Rep. 2023 Sep 9;13(1):14883. doi: 10.1038/s41598-023-42085-2. PMID: 37689810; PMCID: PMC10492855.

  8. Johansson E, Hussain A, Kuktaite R, Andersson SC, Olsson ME. Contribution of organically grown crops to human health. Int J Environ Res Public Health. 2014 Apr 8;11(4):3870-93. doi: 10.3390/ijerph110403870. PMID: 24717360; PMCID: PMC4025038.

  9. Riar A, Mandloi LS, Poswal RS, Messmer MM, Bhullar GS. A Diagnosis of Biophysical and Socio-Economic Factors Influencing Farmers' Choice to Adopt Organic or Conventional Farming Systems for Cotton Production. Front Plant Sci. 2017 Jul 19;8:1289. doi: 10.3389/fpls.2017.01289. PMID: 28769975; PMCID: PMC5515906.