Bamboo underwear and how the fabric is made

Short answer: Bamboo underwear is not woven from raw bamboo but from viscose, which is made from the bamboo plant in several steps at a factory. Here is a simple explanation of how fibre becomes yarn and fabric, and what that means for how the underwear feels and is washed.

From bamboo plant to fibre

Bamboo is a fast growing grass. For clothing the plant is broken down into a mass of cellulose, which is then turned into a fibre. That is why we speak of viscose from bamboo in clothing and not of bamboo in its raw form. It matters to understand what you are buying.

How the viscose is made in short

In the viscose process the cellulose is dissolved in a liquid, pressed through tiny holes and hardened into thin threads. The threads become fibres that are spun into yarn. Each factory has its own way of doing it, and quality depends on how carefully the process is controlled and cleaned.

Bamboo underwear and why it feels soft

The fibre is smooth and fine, which makes the fabric soft on the skin. When the yarn is knitted into jersey, it gets a light and stretchy drape. You can feel the difference in bamboo underwear for women, where the fabric rests calmly against the body.

From yarn to knitted fabric

The yarn is knitted on machines into large rolls of jersey. The fabric may contain a little elastane to hold its shape, and the thickness is chosen by what the fabric will be used for. Then the rolls are cut and sewn into knickers, tops and other parts of a collection.

Dyeing and finishing

The fabric is dyed and rinsed so the colour sits in the fibre. Some fabrics also get a soft finish. How well the colour holds depends on the dye and on how you wash. Black and dark colours often fare best if you wash them gently and inside out.

What you can see and feel on the finished fabric

When you have the underwear in your hand, feel the surface and pull lightly on the fabric. It should give and come back without sagging. Look at the seams and edges, whether they lie flat, and whether the fabric looks even. That tells you more than many words on a label.

Care so the fabric lasts

Viscose from bamboo keeps its shape best when washed gently. Follow the care label, avoid very hot drying and wash dark items separately so the colour does not run. That way you enjoy the softness of the fabric for many months.

What you can use the knowledge for

When you know how the fabric is made, you can ask better questions. Ask which viscose it is and how it is cared for. Also look at bamboo T-shirts for women and bamboo socks, which rest on the same type of fabric, so you can compare.

Frequently asked questions

Is bamboo underwear made of pure bamboo?

No, it is made of viscose from bamboo. The plant is broken down and turned into a fibre in several steps at a factory. That is why people speak of viscose from bamboo.

Why does bamboo fabric feel soft?

The fibre is smooth and fine, and when the yarn is knitted into jersey the fabric gets a soft drape. That is a common trait of viscose, not a promise that everyone feels it the same way.

Can I machine wash bamboo underwear?

Yes, most can, but always follow the care label. Choose a gentle programme, avoid very hot drying and wash dark colours separately.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.