SafePlants

Bamboo Textiles

Bamboo textiles encompass cloth, yarn, and clothing crafted from bamboo fibers. Historically, bamboo was used primarily for structural purposes. Now, its fibers are being increasingly used in modern textiles.

Considerations for Children:

• Bamboo textiles are used in children's clothing.

Taxonomy and Nomenclature:

• Bamboo fibers are cellulosic fibers produced from Bamboo Plants, a type of grass.
• The scientific name Neosinocalamus affinis is mentioned in relation to a study of bamboo fiber structures.

Fabric Properties and Uses:

• Bamboo fabric is known for its softness, often compared to cashmere.
• It possesses antibacterial properties and excellent wicking capabilities.
• Bamboo textiles are used to create products such as pillowcases, duvets, clothes, towels, socks, and T-shirts.
• The fabric is breathable and comfortable against the skin.

Production Methods:

• There are two primary methods of producing bamboo fibers: mechanical and chemical. The chemical process is described as highly intensive, involving multiple toxic solvents.
• Chemically manufactured bamboo fiber is a regenerated cellulose.

Environmental Concerns:

• The production of bamboo fabric through chemical processes raises sustainability concerns.
• Textiles derived from bamboo may need to be labeled as rayon or viscose due to regulations countering the misrepresentation of the fabric as environmentally friendly.
• Bamboo fiber is a biodegradable textile material.

Textile Regulations:

• The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) has taken steps to restrict certain claims about bamboo fabrics.
• There is no official textile classification for "Bamboo."

Quirky Facts:

• Historically, bamboo was used in structural elements like bustles and the ribs of old-fashioned garments.

Further Information:

• The National Textile University Faisalabad is mentioned in relation to bamboo fiber production.
• Lucerne University has undertaken a research project with Swiss textile companies to study bamboo textiles.