The better question is, why not bamboo? Bamboo fiber has a luxuriously soft feel with many environmentally safe qualities. Bamboo has been praised as the “the natural, green and eco-friendly textile of the 21st century." It feels good, looks good, and is good for the planet.
Sustainable
Bamboo is the most sustainable natural fiber on earth. It can grow as much as 3 feet overnight and reaches a mature height of 75 feet in less than 3 months. Bamboo reaches maturity quickly and is ready for harvesting in about 4 years. Bamboo does not require replanting after harvesting because its vast root network continually sprouts new shoots while pulling in sunlight and greenhouse gases and converting them to new green growth. Bamboo is 100% biodegradable and the decomposition process does not cause any environmental pollution.
Hypoallergenic/Pesticide Free
Bamboo fiber has a natural anti-bacterial component, therefore no pesticides are needed to protect the grass. A Japanese scientist has found that bamboo has a unique anti-bacteria agent called “bamboo kun” that prevents bacteria from cultivating on the fiber. Other fibers such as cotton may have a chemically added anti-bacteria function that could cause skin allergies, but bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic. The Japan Textile Inspection Association found that even after washing bamboo clothing 50 times, bamboo fiber still has excellent anti-bacteria properties. Test results show an over 70% bacteria death rate after being incubated on bamboo fabric.
Breathable and Absorbent
Cross sections of bamboo fiber are filled with micro-gaps and micro-holes that allow for better moisture absorption and ventilation than other fibers. Bamboo apparel can absorb and evaporate human sweat instantaneously so your clothes won’t stick to your skin. Tests have found that bamboo fiber keeps you 1-2 degrees cooler than other fibers such as cotton. Bamboo is the ultimate in comfort since it keeps you cool in hot weather and warm in cooler temperatures.
Environmental Conservation
Conventional cotton requires over 100,000 cubic feet of water per acre to grow, whereas bamboo tolerates drought extremely well and only requires minimal rainwater. In addition, bamboo fiber does not hold odor so you can wear your clothing over and over without frequent washing. Talk about a great way to conserve our water resources!
Panda-Friendly
There are more that 1500 types of bamboo found in the world. Bamboo fiber is made from a species called ‘Moso’ (Phyllostachys edulis) which is not eaten by panda bears.
A natural fiber with a silky soft feel, strong durability, and is good for the environment? That’s just smart.