The role of fibres in women's underwear, with bamboo as an example

Short answer: Fibres decide much of how underwear feels, behaves and lasts. Cotton is a natural fibre, bamboo viscose is a fibre made from the plant's cellulose, and elastane gives stretch. Read the material label and look at the share of each fibre, so you know what you are getting.

What a fibre is

A fibre is the thin strand the yarn is spun from, and from which the fabric is finally woven or knitted. Which fibre is used has a great effect on how the fabric feels against the skin, how it falls and how long it lasts. That is why it is worth knowing the main types when you choose underwear.

Natural, regenerated and synthetic fibres

Cotton and wool are natural fibres that come from plants or animals. Viscose is a regenerated fibre, where the plant's cellulose is dissolved and spun into new fibres. Elastane and polyamide are synthetic fibres often used for stretch and strength. Many underwear fabrics are blends of two or more types.

Bamboo as an example

Bamboo in clothing is viscose from bamboo, where the cellulose of the plant becomes a soft fibre. When you look at bamboo underwear for women, read the material label so you can see what share of the fibres is bamboo viscose and whether there is elastane. It tells you more than the word bamboo alone.

How fibres affect the feel

Many people find viscose from bamboo soft and smooth, while cotton can feel a little firmer and drier. Synthetic fibres can feel smooth or slightly plastic depending on the yarn. The experience is personal, and the knit and yarn matter too, so try and compare with the underwear you know.

Elastane and fit

Elastane makes underwear flexible, so it follows the body and returns to shape. Without elastane the fabric may sit more loosely or go slack. With too much it can feel tight. Look at the share of elastane in the material label and think about how you want your underwear to fit in daily life.

Blends and shares

Most fabrics are blends, and the share matters. A small amount of elastane can give stretch without changing the character of the fabric, while a larger share gives a closer fit. Read the material label and compare if you are unsure. Remember that the word bamboo does not tell you what the rest of the fabric is made of.

Care according to the fibres

Different fibres need different care. Always follow the care label so the underwear keeps its shape. Viscose can be more delicate when wet, so avoid hard wringing. Elastane can suffer from high heat, so choose the temperature the label states, and avoid items that can rub the fabric.

The rest of the wardrobe

The same thinking works for the rest of your clothes. Look at bamboo knickers and bamboo T-shirts for women, and read the material label so you know the fibres. When you know what your clothes are made of, it is easier to choose by what feels good to you.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between cotton and bamboo viscose

Cotton is a natural fibre from the cotton plant, while bamboo viscose is a fibre made from the cellulose of bamboo. They feel different, but the experience is personal, so try and compare.

Why is there elastane in underwear

Elastane gives stretch, so the underwear follows the body and returns to shape. Read the material label to see how large the share is.

Does the word bamboo tell me everything about the fabric

No, the word names only one fibre. The material label shows the full composition and the share of each fibre, so you know what the fabric is made of.