The Wonderful World of Bamboo

‘Those who believe in magic, always find it’

If you’re here, smile. You are about to discover some magic about a plant that might become your new favourite thing to snuggle up to (If it isn’t already!) Bamboo is fast becoming the go-to for more and more of our home essentials. Though what is this trending wonder fabric?  Let’s start with the basics. Bamboo is a speedy-growing grass with a hollow stem. There are over 14, 000 species of versatile plants growing around the globe. And its magic is not just the insanely cosy things it can make. Did you know… it is one of the most eco-friendly resources on the planet? One of many reasons we love it.

So… without further a dew (dew as in grass dew… get it? Never mind)

Are you ready to learn more about nature’s green miracle?

Where is Bamboo found?

Bamboo is not too fussy about where it grows, well, actually… it prefers the continents that have diamonds. Think Africa, Asia, South America, North America, and Australia! Though they are pretty tough plants. They can tolerate extreme conditions, withstanding temperatures below- 20, definitely not delicate daisies! The plant tends to be mostly associated with South East Asia though don’t be surprised to hear about it popping up in other places.  Depending on the species, some can only grow in subtropical places or colder climates- there are some cold-hardy bamboo plants out there!

How fast does Bamboo grow?

Blink and you miss it! Well not quite. Though Bamboo  is the fastest growing plant in the world. There are mixed opinions on exactly how much it can grow in a single day, so best to turn to the good old Guiness book of world records! The record celebrates a nippy little species that can grow up to 35 inches per day. Move over Jack and the beanstalk, more like Jack and the Bamboo stalk… No? Never mind.  An average plant can grow from 3-4 feet a day making organic bamboo a wonderfully sustainable resource that comes with heaps of natural benefits. More on those shortly,  though first…

How is Bamboo turned into home- ware and why is it so popular?

The popularity of bamboo is growing as quickly as the plant itself! More and more brands are promoting the fabric as an eco-friendly alternative to cotton and other materials. And this is a great thing for the global home-ware industry that is having glowing effects on our planet. We are all looking for ways to be more eco-friendly at home and switching to organic, bamboo bedding is a comfy place to start. We are all more determined than ever to lower our carbon footprint.  The bamboo fabric allows big brands like Panda London to create luxurious bedding and homeware that have a conscience for the planet. And how is that done?

1. Bamboo is planted, usually in Spring and it starts to grow
2. The plants are harvested
3. It is then cut into smaller strips and chips
4. The chips are made into a pulp 
5. The pulp is poured through a filter to create long fibres
6. The fibres are softened with a little amine oxide
7. They are then spun into a yarn
8. Finally they are weaved into a soft, breathable fabric

Ta-da, sumptuously soft 100% Bamboo bedding. Some of the most common fabrics you will see on your labels are Raylon, Lyocell, or cotton and linen blends.

Why is Bamboo good for the planet?

To start with, it requires very little maintenance to farm. No need to replant it as it miraculously continues to create new sprouts! It doesn’t rely on any pesticides or herbicides and drinks a third less water than cotton (in case you were wondering) It is, drumroll please… the fastest growing plant in the world. The quicker a plant grows, the quicker it can be used as a resource, like keeping up with the ever-increasing demand for lifestyle products. Though the biggest planet-friendly benefit? It’s the ability to absorb carbon dioxide and turn it into o2. (Told you there would be some magic) Bamboo naturally makes the air we breathe cleaner! There is more… strength of the fabric- some fibres have been compared to steel- which makes it incredibly durable. Meaning when you switch to bamboo bedding, mattress toppers, and pillows you won’t need to change them for a really long time. Brands like Panda take their low carbon footprint one step further by collecting and recycling your used items for free! Another reason why choosing bamboo can help you sleep soundly.

Why is Bamboo good for you?

Now for those natural benefits I mentioned. Bamboo is a wonder plant for both the planet and for you, unlike other fabrics it is kind and gentle on the skin. Not being treated means it doesn’t hold onto odours- so no more stinky bedsheets! Being hypo-allergenic makes it perfect for those with allergies and the superior softness makes it unparalleled when it comes to comfort. Move over cotton, the wonder plant is four times more absorbent when it comes to zapping moisture keeping bedding nice and fresh. Oh, and if you’re not a fan of bed bugs…the fabric is naturally resistant to dust mites, mould, and mildew. Though the biggest magic of Bamboo? It brings natural five-star comfort to your home, with minimum impact on our world. 

Let’s make bamboo the new face of luxury home-ware and together…we can light this planet right up.