Why bamboo is often called soft

Short answer: Bamboo viscose is often called soft because the fibres are long, thin and smooth, and because the fabric is usually knitted densely. Together that gives an even surface without irregularities, which the skin reads as soft when the fabric rests against the body.

Three things that create softness

Long fibres with few ends, thin fibres that bend easily, and a smooth surface without scales. These three qualities together create the soft feel. Each makes a difference on its own, but the combination is what counts. You find it in many of the fabrics in women's most popular styles, where the feel against the skin comes first.

Long fibres with few ends

Every time a fibre ends, there is a small tip that can stick out of the yarn. The shorter the fibres, the more ends on the surface. Viscose is made as long, continuous filaments that can be cut to the length the yarn needs. Fewer ends mean fewer tiny points against the skin and a calmer surface.

A smooth surface without scales

Wool has tiny scales on the surface of each fibre, which is part of why some wool jumpers itch. Cotton has a slightly twisted, uneven shape. Viscose fibres, by contrast, are smooth along their whole length. When a finger slides over the fabric, there is almost nothing to catch on. Many people describe that smoothness as silky.

The knit adds to it

A densely knitted fabric has fewer loose ends and fewer gaps on the surface. The stitches lie close and even, so the fabric feels softer than a loose knit of the same yarn. A dense knit also keeps its shape better and wears more slowly. See the qualities in bamboo sweat clothes, where density plays a big part in the feel.

Drape and weight play a part

Viscose is a fairly heavy fibre, so the fabric falls softly along the body instead of standing out. That adds to the sense of softness, even though it has nothing to do with the surface. A fabric that follows the body's movements feels more comfortable than one that stands stiffly. You notice it most in tops and dresses.

Softness is not the same as quality

A very soft fabric can be thin and wear quickly. Softness tells you how a fabric feels, not how long it lasts. A slightly firmer fabric can keep its shape better through many washes. It is about finding the balance that suits the use. See the trade off in our most popular items.

Why some bamboo fabrics feel hard

If a bamboo fabric feels hard or stiff, it is usually not the fibre. More often it is detergent residue or limescale from hard water that has built up in the fabric. Tumble drying can also make the surface rough. Try using less detergent and an extra rinse. That is often enough for the fabric to become soft again.

How to keep the softness

Wash at 30 or 40 degrees with a mild detergent and dose according to your water hardness. Skip fabric softener, which coats the fibres. Air dry and turn clothes inside out so the surface rubs less. Small habits like these keep the fabric feeling soft for much longer and help it hold its shape.

Frequently asked questions

Does bamboo get softer over time

During the first many washes, yes, as residue from production disappears. After that the fabric slowly becomes thinner instead, especially if it is often tumble dried.

Is soft the same as warm

No. Warmth comes from air in the fabric and how dry it keeps the skin. A soft fabric can be light and cool, and a warm fabric can feel firm.

Why do some bamboo fabrics feel hard

Usually it is detergent residue or hard water, not the fibre. Use less detergent, add an extra rinse and let clothes air dry, and the fabric often becomes soft again.