By now, you’re likely familiar with the basic comforts of cotton, but what about the benefits of fabric made from bamboo? Is it better than cotton?

Like many others, you’re probably wondering what the true difference is between these two seemingly similar fabrics. That’s why today, we’re taking a closer look at the basics of clothing made from bamboo vs. cotton and how they compare in categories of comfort, value, and sustainability.

Viscose From Bamboo vs. Cotton: How They Stack Up

To better examine the advantages and drawbacks of each of these fabrics, we've split things up into these five vital categories.

Comfort

Cotton is certainly comfortable, but it simply can't compare to the luxurious softness of clothing made from bamboo. The secret lies in the structure of the bamboo fibers themselves, which are naturally strong and circular. This allows them to be spun into an ultra-fine yarn that feels incredibly soft to the touch.

Additionally, bamboo fibers are longer than typical cotton fibers, which means they can be woven together with fewer connections. This results in a smoother and more even fabric that feels silky and downright luxurious against the skin. The combination of these factors makes clothing made from bamboo incredibly comfortable to wear, whether you're lounging at home or out and about.

Durability

Cotton is often praised for its durability, especially when compared to fabrics like wool or polyester. It can maintain or even increase its strength when wet, making it a popular choice for outdoor wear. Even with these strengths, cotton can't match up to the durability of viscose from bamboo’s long, smooth, and strong fibers.

Bamboo fibers are so durable they resist shrinking, stretching, tearing, and pilling.  And because clothes made from bamboo require fewer washes, they maintain their quality for years, long after cotton garments show signs of wear and tear.

Related: Does Clothing Made From Bamboo Shrink When Washed?

Breathability

Breathability is a crucial comfort factor not to be overlooked, especially during warmer months, and viscose from bamboo has the upper hand. 

The natural moisture-wicking properties of viscose from bamboo help draw sweat and moisture away from your skin, leaving you feeling dry and comfortable. It also allows for better air circulation, allowing your skin to breathe and thermoregulate. This makes clothing made from bamboo ideal for activities like yoga, hiking, or any outdoor activities where you're likely to sweat. 

Cotton, on the other hand, tends to absorb and retain moisture, leaving you feeling damp and sticky, not to mention susceptible to skin irritation and chafing.

Cost and value

Those looking to spend as little as possible on their clothing can save some money by opting for cotton over viscose from bamboo. This is because cotton clothing can be mass-produced at low costs, keeping prices down. 

However, those with an eye toward long-term value and not just initial cost may choose to buy clothing made from bamboo instead. We've mentioned viscose from bamboo’s durability, which allows it to stay wearable and look great long after you've had to replace that cheaper cotton version. Over time, opting for quality apparel made from bamboo can save you money, while providing more value in terms of comfort and versatility.

Resources needed

These days, it's vital that clothes not only look and feel good but also don't require tons of resources to produce. Fortunately, bamboo fits the bill. It can grow in nearly any region of the world, requires relatively little water or outside fertilizers, and grows incredibly fast—almost three feet per day in some cases! 

Bamboo can also be harvested and continue to grow and replenish itself. This isn't true of cotton, which needs seasonal plantings to produce fiber. While organic cotton can reduce some environmental impact concerns caused by fertilizers and pesticides, it remains a slower-growing crop that can only be planted in some areas of the world. 

Man and Woman at the beach wearing bamboo apparel

Is Clothing Made From Bamboo Better Than Cotton?

What you wear comes down to two factors: comfort and personal style. While we can’t tell you what to wear, we can say with confidence that if you’re looking for quality, breathability, durability, and value second to none, viscose from bamboo is for you.

From the incredible softness to the sustainable roots (no pun intended), there are plenty of reasons to add clothing made from bamboo to your wardrobe.

Shop some of Free Fly’s styles below to experience the difference for yourself.

Men’s

Women’s

Discover even more reasons to love our bamboo viscose clothing on the Free Fly Blog, or drop us a line on Instagram @freeflyapparel.