Recently I have had more requests for organic or bamboo items. Since I have not had many requests for organic, I started to do some research. Most have at least heard of bamboo items and when asked will tell you that they are an eco-friendly fabric. This is true but what I learned is that the manufacturing process is not.

Bamboo is a plant or a grass instead of a tree. It is eco-friendly because it grows rapidly and does not need the help of chemicals. In fact, it reaches maturity quickly and does not require to replanting because it continuously resprouts. In about four years it reaches maturity and is ready to be harvested. There is no need for pesticides or fertilizers.

Another great thing about bamboo is that it helps the air. It extracts carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and releases 25% more oxygen than other crops or forests. It can grow from 24 inches to 26 inches in a single day. It doesn't require all the pesticides that cotton does nor does it require very much water.

The problem with bamboo is in the production. In order to make the fibers of the bamboo into something that can be used in clothing then they have to use a lot of chemicals. There is dyeing and the finishing of the bamboo that has the largest impact on the environment. It is suggested that the water be treated and recycling the chemicals to make the bamboo product eco friendly but this rarely happens. In fact, some say it never happens. There is a company that uses nano-particles of bamboo charcoal that doesn’t use dyes or bleaches during the process.

So why Bamboo?

Well, first of all it is very natural. It naturally wicks moisture away from your body, helps with perspiration, wrinkle resistant and is softer than cotton. I personally think it feels like silk. Bamboo has natural antimicrobial and antifungal properties and is 100% biodegradable. What does this mean? Well basically you won’t smell when you sweat.

Are you looking for something a little bit different and new? Are you a ‘green’ company and are looking for new apparel. Bamboo might be for you. Contact me if you would like to see a sample!

Labels: Bamboo, Eco-friendly Apparel, Organic