Bamboo sheets are all the rage nowadays thanks to the companies’ claims that they come with a lot of benefits. But, are these claims true? Plus, bamboo beddings are, in general, more expensive than regular sheets. Are they really worth it?
The answer is it depends. Not all bamboo sheets are created equal. Some are breathable, hypoallergenic, antimicrobial and durable. However, you have to be smart and get quality bamboo bed sheets if you want it to be worth what you pay for. On the bright side, this is what I’m here for, to point you in the right direction and suggest some good buys.
First, if you want a nice balance of price and comfort, check out the Hotel Sheets Direct 100% Bamboo 4-Piece Bed Sheet Set. or DTY Bedding Bamboo Sheets if you can spend a bit more to enjoy that luxurious feeling you deserve… But if you’re prepared to really make an investment for top quality bamboo sheets that will last you for years to come, Cariloha Classic Bamboo Sheets 4-Piece Bed Sheet Set is your best choice. The Zen Bamboo Luxury 1500 Series Bed Sheets are a nice alternative if you want to get enjoy the benefits of bamboo beddings at an affordable price. However, you should know that they’re not 100% bamboo like the rest of the sheets.
What Are Bamboo Sheets?
Quality bamboo sheets are soft and lightweight. They are also thermo-regulating and moisture-wicking so they’re suitable for hot sleepers. Plus, people with sensitive skin will love bamboo sheets since they are hypoallergenic and have antibacterial properties.
However, some people are put off by its above average price. While it is true that there are plenty of cheaper sheets, you have to remember that you’re making an investment. There are many benefits using bamboo sheets and they’re durable if cared for properly, so you can use them for years to come.
What Are Bamboo Sheets Made of?
It might be hard to imagine but just as its name suggests, bamboo sheets use the bamboo plant as a starting material.
Premium bamboo sheets are made from bamboo crops that have been grown without using pesticides and insecticides.
How Are Bamboo Sheets Made?
There are two main ways to make bamboo sheets. Manufacturers either use the mechanical method or chemical method to process the bamboo.
- Mechanical Method – The eco-friendly process of the two, the mechanical process uses a machine to crush the leaves and inner part of the bamboo. Natural enzymes are then added to the pulp to break it down before it undergoes washing. Sheets that are labeled “100% bamboo” are made using this process.
- Chemical Method – Most companies selling bamboo sheets process the starting material by dissolving them in a viscose liquid. This liquid contains chemicals, so you need to make sure that the product you’re buying is certified to be free of harmful chemicals.
Once the bamboo has been processed, it is pushed through tiny holes. The resulting threads are then woven together to make the bamboo fabric.
Different Types of Bamboo Sheets
There are various types of bamboo sheets depending on how they were made.
Bamboo Viscose (Rayon)
First up, we have bamboo viscose, the most used type of bamboo fabric in the market today. During the viscose process, the bamboo is dissolved using chemicals like chlorine bleach, sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, and carbon disulfide.
While it is not the most eco-friendly type of bamboo fabric, it is still way more sustainable than other pesticide-intensive crops like cotton.
Also, the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) requires that sheets made from this fabric be labeled as “rayon made from bamboo” so consumers can easily differentiate it from the other types of bamboo fabric.
Pros
- Can absorb more moisture than cotton
- Soft and silky
- High quality rayon doesn’t pill
- Breathable
- Anti-static
Cons
- Wrinkles
- Doesn’t have good wet strength
Bamboo Linen (Natural Bamboo)
If you’re looking for a sustainable fabric that uses only natural enzymes during processing, then bamboo linen is the way to go.
Also called natural bamboo fabric, it is heavier and more durable than cotton. When new, it isn’t as soft as other bamboo fabrics, but it does soften after some use.
The main drawback to bamboo linen is that it’s high-maintenance. It requires ironing because it wrinkles easily.
Pros
- Eco-friendly
- Has some of the antibacterial properties of bamboo
- Strong and durable
Cons
- Expensive to produce
- Harder to find
- Comes with a hefty price tag
- High-maintenance
- Stiff when new
Bamboo Lyocell
Usually going for the branded name Tencel, bamboo lyocell is highly recommended by the National Resources Defense Council (NRDC) for being the eco-friendliest bamboo fabric. It uses non-toxic chemicals like hydrogen peroxide and amine oxides during processing.
Unlike other bamboo fabrics, the manufacturing process of bamboo lyocell is very sustainable.
The chemicals used can be repeatedly recycled, effectively protecting the environment. Plus, it has low emissions and doesn’t need as much water as other textiles.
As for the fabric itself, you’ll find that it’s quite softer and stronger than both rayon and bamboo linen.
Pros
- Softer and more durable than other bamboo fabrics
- The most eco-friendly type of bamboo textile
- Has good moisture-wicking abilities
- Resistant to odor build-up
- Naturally antibacterial
- Hypoallergenic
- Anti-static
Cons
- Hard to find
- Expensive
Bamboo Cotton Blend
Like its name implies, bamboo rayon is blended with cotton at a ratio of 60 or 70 percent rayon and 40 or 30 percent cotton. This results in a fabric that is stronger but less soft than rayon.
Also, both rayon and cotton use a lot of chemicals during processing. Moreover, cotton production wastes a lot of fresh water and is well-known to be labor intensive.
Pros
- Stronger than rayon
Cons
- Less soft than rayon
- Not environment-friendly
What to Look for When Buying Bamboo Sheets
When buying bamboo sheets, you’ll want to look for some of the best since it’s an investment that should last you for a long time.
Here are some of the factors that you need to consider when making your purchase.
Type of Fabric
Just as I’ve mentioned above, there are different types of bamboo fabric and some are better than the others.
Especially if you have sensitive skin, you’ll want to stick to bamboo linen and lyocell. The same holds true if you want something that is more environment-friendly.
Weave
Just like other types of fabric, bamboo can be found in different types of weave. In fact, aside from the way it was processed, bamboo fabric can have varying durability and texture depending on how it was woven.
- Sateen – Sateen bamboo sheets are smooth, soft and lustrous. However, they are more delicate than the other type of weave, so you need to take care of them properly. Sateen sheets are more time-consuming to produce as well so they tend to come with a higher price tag.
- Twill –Twill bamboo sheets have a short and fine weave. This means that they’re not as soft but a lot sturdier than sateen bamboo sheets. If you’re getting sheets of this weave, you’ll want to check if they’ve been pre-shrunk. Otherwise, they might shrink upon washing and drying, making you end up with sheets that don’t fit your bed.
Color
Some bamboo sheets absorb stains and body oil really well that even after washing, they still remain. As such, consider getting ones that have a darker color.
Size
Unless the bamboo sheets that you’re getting has been pre-shrunk prior to sewing, get ones that are slightly bigger. If you’re unsure whether they have been pre-shrunk, check with the manufacturer.
Also, if you have a thick mattress, you’ll want to get sheets with deeper pockets.
Care Level
Some bamboo sheets are more delicate than others so they require gentle cleaning. Make sure to carefully read the instructions that come with your bamboo sheets to make them last for a long time.
Price
Bamboo sheets, in general, are more expensive than cotton sheets because they’re harder to produce, come with a lot of benefits and they’re rapidly rising in popularity.
You’ll be able to find some cheap ones out there but with lower quality. If you want to get the best, prepare to splurge a little.
But it will be worth it for sure since you’ll get the best that bamboo sheets have to offer.
How to Wash Bamboo Sheets
Bamboo beddings require proper care to last a long time. Here are some tips that will help you take care of your bamboo bed sheets.
- Use cold water and mild soap in washing bamboo sheets since they are delicate.
- You’ll also want to use the gentle cycle to machine wash them.
- Avoid using harsh detergents, bleach and fabric softeners.
- Avoid washing them with the rest of your laundry since bamboo sheets easily pick up colors.
- If possible, air dry your bamboo sheets. Otherwise, use the lower heat and low tumble settings when machine drying.
- Don’t leave your sheets in the dryer for too long to prevent too much wrinkling.
Should You Wash Bamboo Sheets Before Using
Yes, you should wash your bamboo sheets before using in order to tighten the weave. This is especially true for bamboo beddings that haven’t been pre-shrunk.
For sheets that haven’t been pre-shrunk, you don’t have to worry about your sheets not fitting since manufacturers take this into consideration and make them slightly oversized.
Where to Buy Bamboo Sheets
I prefer online shopping in Amazon when it comes to my bamboo sheets since they have a wide selection of bamboo sheets and I find the customer reviews very helpful in determining if a product is of good quality or not.
Best Bamboo Sheets in 2019 Reviewed
Best Overall Bamboo Sheets
Hotel Sheets Direct 100% Bamboo 4-Piece Bed Sheet Set Review
The 100% Bamboo 4 Piece Bed Sheet Set from Hotel Sheets Direct is one of the best in the market today as proven by its high rating and very positive reviews.
It’s available in 7 sizes and 9 colors so you’ll surely be able to find one that fits your preferences.
Made from 100% rayon, it uses the best bamboo fibers to create sheets that are extremely soft and light. Also, just like any other quality bamboo beddings, these are hypoallergenic and thermoregulating, so you can sleep peacefully each night.
Pros
- Available in different sizes and colors
- Has deep pockets
- Anti-piling
- Hypoallergenic and thermoregulating
- Comes with a 90-day money-back guarantee
Cons
- Some buyers find it difficult to find the right size
Read real reviews on Amazon
Overall Best Runnerup
DTY Bedding 4-Piece Premium Bamboo Sheets
DTY Bedding offers another good overall alternative with the 4-Piece Premium Bamboo Sheets. It offers a nice selection with its 3 sizes and 2 sizes of standalone pillowcases as well as 14 lovely colors.
It is made from rayon and has a sateen finish that makes it feel and look luxurious.
Aside from being gentle on the skin, it’s also thermal-regulating, making it a fantastic choice for people with sensitive skin and hot sleepers.
Not to mention that it is certified by the OEKO-TEX to be environment-friendly thanks to its closed loop process.
This means that compared to cotton, these sheets use far less water and is completely organic.
Pros
- Durable
- Breathable and moisture-wicking
- OEKO-TEX certified
- Comes with a lifetime limited warranty
Cons
- A bit pricier
Read real reviews on Amazon
Best Luxury Bamboo Sheets
Cariloha Classic Bamboo Sheets 4-Piece Bed Sheet Set Review
Want to feel like you’re sleeping on clouds? Well, check out some of the best that Cariloha has to offer – the Classic Bamboo Sheets 4-Piece Bed Sheet Set.
These luxuriously soft sheets of twill weave and 230 thread count are available in 5 sizes as well as 5 colors.
It has all the best that bamboo fabrics have to offer including being naturally able to repel odors and allergens.
On top of that, according to Cariloha, their sheets can keep our body cooler for as much as 3 degrees thanks to their sheets’ amazing breathability and moisture-wicking ability.
Pros
- Has extra deep pockets
- Fitted sheet has full-length elastic all around it
- Wonderfully soft
- Odor and allergen repellent
- Breathable and moisture-wicking
Cons
- Pricey
Read real reviews on Amazon
Best Budget Bamboo and Microfiber Blend Sheets
Zen Bamboo Luxury 1500 Series Bed Sheets Review
If you don’t mind a blend of rayon and brushed microfiber in your beddings, then you can get good bamboo sheets even when you’re on a budget with the Zen Bamboo Luxury 1500 Series Bed Sheets.
You can even choose from 5 sizes and 12 colors.
Since it’s part rayon derived from bamboo, it’s hypoallergenic, fade-resistant and incredibly soft.
On the other hand, the microfiber in the sheets makes them more durable, stain-resistant and wrinkle-resistant.
It even comes with a 30-day satisfaction guarantee in case you’re not satisfied with your purchase.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Available in a different sizes and colors
- Hypoallergenic
- Durable but soft
- Wrinkle-resistant
Cons
- Not 100% bamboo – it’s a rayon bamboo and brushed microfiber blend
Read real reviews on Amazon
Best Variety Bamboo Sheets
LuxClub 4-PC Bamboo Sheet Set Review
Do you want to be able to choose from a wide array of beautiful colors? Look no further than the LuxClub 4-PC Bamboo Sheet Set.
You’ll be able to choose from 5 different sizes and 44 colors, so you will surely find something that will fit your taste.
It’s made from rayon, so you’ll be able to get silky soft sheets that are breathable. The fitted sheets even come with very deep pockets, so it will fit your mattress properly.
Not to mention that it is antimicrobial and hypoallergenic aside from being thermo-cooling and moisture-wicking.
Pros
- Wide selection of vibrant colors and sizes
- Silky soft
- Has 14” pockets
- Thermo-cooling and moisture-wicking
- Antimicrobial and hypoallergenic
- Comes with a 1-year guarantee
Cons
- Not stretchy
Read real reviews on Amazon
Frequently Asked Questions
Are bamboo sheets better than Egyptian cotton?
There are many ways that premium bamboo sheets are better than Egyptian cotton. First, they are more breathable than sheets made from Egyptian cotton. They stay cooler during summer and keep warmer during winter.
Moreover, aside from being soft to the touch, top quality bamboo sheets are hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin. Bamboo lyocell and linen beddings are more eco-friendly as well compared to cotton which is a very pesticide-intensive crop.
What is the best thread count for bamboo sheets?
Another nice thing about bamboo sheets is that they don’t need to have a high thread count to be luxuriously soft.
The best thread count for bamboo sheets is somewhere around 250 to 350 thread count and yet you’ll still be amazed how it’s just as soft as cashmere.
How long do bamboo sheets last?
Bamboo sheets are a great investment since they are quite durable and will last you for years if given proper care.
Are bamboo sheets hypoallergenic?
Yes, bamboo sheets are hypoallergenic and gentle on the skin. On top of that, it is also naturally antimicrobial and mildew and mold resistant.
Do bamboo sheets shrink?
The answer to this is it depends. Some bamboo bed sheets already come pre-shrunk. However, for those that haven’t been pre-shrunk, the manufacturer usually takes this into consideration and makes the sheets slightly oversized.
Are bamboo sheets good?
Bamboo sheets are very good especially if you want to invest in beddings that are soft and luxurious. It’s also one of your best choices if you have sensitive skin.
Conclusion
So, are bamboo sheets really worth it?
Basically, bamboo sheets are worth it as long as you can get ones that are of good quality.
Overall, the Hotel Sheets Direct 100% Bamboo 4-Piece Bed Sheet Set is a nice choice since it has a reasonable price and has all the good benefits of beddings made from bamboo. If you’re not on a tight budget and can spend a bit more you’ll appreciate these DTY Bedding 4-Piece Premium Bamboo Sheets.
You’ll also want to check out the LuxClub 4-PC Bamboo Sheet Set if you’re looking for a specific color.
You have the option of going for an affordable alternative as well with the Zen Bamboo Luxury 1500 Series Bed Sheets.
But, if you want to go all out and invest in the cream of the crop, the Cariloha Classic Bamboo Sheets 4-Piece Bed Sheet Set is the only way to go.
Good… (goes and turns of the wi-fi router) …night sweety!
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