How fast bamboo viscose dries

Short answer: A thin piece of bamboo clothing usually dries overnight indoors, while thicker fabric such as sweatshirt material takes longer. Bamboo viscose dries more slowly than polyester but faster than thick cotton, and how you hang it makes a big difference.

Thickness matters most

Fabric thickness has the biggest effect on drying time. A thin T-shirt usually dries in four to eight hours indoors, while a hoodie can take a full day. The more fabric there is, the more water it can hold. See the difference between thin and thick qualities in men's most popular styles.

Why cellulose holds water

Bamboo viscose is a cellulose fibre, and cellulose takes up water inside the fibre itself, not just between the threads. That is what makes it pleasant to wear, but it also means there is more water to get rid of after washing. Polyester absorbs almost no water and dries faster, but feels different on the skin.

Airflow makes a big difference

A garment hanging freely in a draught dries much faster than one lying crumpled. Air needs to reach both sides of the fabric and carry the moisture away. Hang clothes with some space between them, and avoid folding them double over the line. The same goes for small items like bamboo socks.

Spin before drying

A fast spin removes a lot of water and can halve the drying time. It is gentler on the fabric than a tumble dryer, because it is quick and uses no heat. If your machine has several speeds, a high spin is fine for most bamboo qualities. Take the clothes out straight away so they do not sit creased.

How to hang sweatshirts

Thick sweatshirt fabric gets heavy when wet and can stretch out of shape if hung by the shoulders on a thin hanger. Lay it flat on a drying rack instead, or hang it over a rail at the waist. Turn it after a few hours so both sides get air. See the qualities in men's bamboo sweatshirts.

Use the dryer with care

Bamboo viscose can go in a tumble dryer on low heat, but high heat can shrink the fabric and wear the elastic. If you are in a hurry, give the clothes a short spell on low heat and let them finish drying in the air. That saves time without exposing the fabric to more heat than needed.

Climate and season

In a humid climate, or indoors in winter with the windows closed, drying takes longer. The air is already damp and cannot take up much more water. An open door, a fan or a heated room can shorten the time noticeably. In summer, outdoors in shade and wind, it is fastest.

Plan your washing

Wash thick items in the morning so they have the whole day and night to dry. Thin items can be washed in the evening and be ready the next morning. If you have a fixed washing day, it can help to own an extra set of what you wear most, so you are not waiting for it to dry.

Frequently asked questions

Does bamboo dry faster than cotton

For thin fabric, yes. At the same weight and thickness the two are close, so the difference shows mostly when comparing thin qualities.

Can bamboo viscose go in a tumble dryer

Yes, but on low heat. High heat can shrink the fabric and wear the elastic, so let the garment finish drying in the air after a short spell.

How long does it take in a humid climate

Up to twice as long. Air conditioning, a fan or a draught through the room shortens it noticeably, because the air can then carry more moisture away.