Bamboo viscose and static electricity

Short answer: Cellulose fibres such as bamboo viscose absorb a little moisture from the air, and that moisture carries the charge away before it builds up. That is why bamboo viscose gets static less often than polyester and nylon, although no fabric is completely free of it in very dry air.

What static electricity is

Static electricity forms when two materials rub against each other and electrons move from one to the other. One material becomes positively charged, the other negatively. If the charge has nowhere to go, it stays in the fabric. That is the small shock you feel at the door handle, or the reason a skirt suddenly clings to your legs.

Moisture in the fibre carries the charge away

A fibre with a little moisture in it conducts the electrical charge away before it builds up. Cellulose naturally draws water from the air, even when the fabric feels completely dry. That moisture works like a tiny wire that spreads the charge out. This is why static is less of a problem in bamboo slips than in polyester ones.

Why synthetic fibres charge up more

Polyester and nylon are made from plastic and absorb almost no moisture. The charge has no way out and collects on the surface. The more the fabric rubs against something else, the more it charges. This explains why a synthetic fleece often crackles when you take it off, while a pure cellulose fabric rarely does.

Dry winter air is the worst

In winter, indoor air is very dry, because cold outdoor air holds little moisture and radiators dry it further. With less moisture available, even natural fibres can become static. You notice it most under a thick jumper, where the layers rub together all day. See the layers in bamboo sweatshirts for women.

When different materials meet

Static builds up mostly where two different materials meet. A wool jumper over a synthetic top, or a skirt over nylon tights, are classic examples. If the layers lying closest together are the same type of fibre, there is less difference in charge and less spark. An outfit made entirely of cellulose fibres often feels calmer than a mix.

Skip the tumble dryer

Tumble drying strips all moisture from the fibre, while the fabrics rub together in warm, dry air for a long time. It is almost the perfect recipe for static. Air drying on a hanger or rack lets the fibre keep its natural moisture. That solves the problem for most items, including those in the men's range, and is gentler on the fabric.

Wash without fabric softener

Many people use fabric softener against static, but it leaves a coating on the fibres that can make bamboo viscose less breathable and less soft over time. Usually it is not needed. Wash at a low temperature with a mild detergent, rinse well and let the clothes dry indoors. The fibre then keeps its ability to hold moisture.

Small habits for everyday life

If you live in a very dry flat, drying your laundry indoors or airing out for a few minutes a day can help. Avoid mixing many different materials in one outfit. And when you are in a hurry, a little moisture on your hands removes the charge at once. Small habits like these often do more than new products.

Frequently asked questions

Why does my skirt cling to my tights

Because two materials with different charges rub together in dry air. Nylon tights charge up easily and pull a light fabric towards your legs, especially in winter.

Does a slip help

Yes. A smooth layer in between removes the friction between the two outer layers, and when the slip is made of cellulose fibres, some of the charge is also carried away through the moisture in the fabric.

Can you remove static instantly

Dampen your hands lightly and run them down the fabric. The charge is carried away at once, and the clothes hang as they should without you having to change.