If you are interested in living green, then you absolutely must consider the fibers that you use in your daily life. From your towels to your clothing, fabric is an area of the home that you can use again and again, but that doesn't mean you shouldn't consider starting with the best, most sustainable fibers available.
Bamboo is one of the world's most sustainable resources for the following incredible reasons, in no small part because it is one of the fastest-growing plants on the planet. This amazing plant can be harvested annually and will then regenerate itself from the roots, replacing the crop naturally without the need for re-planting or crop rotation. These properties, in addition to making this an extremely low-demand crop, make it an attractive farming operation.
While many traditional fibers, namely cotton, require extensive farming support, bamboo is notably low-maintenance. For example, cotton requires annual re-planting, a fairly complex harvesting system, and numerous chemical additives. Additionally, it is a somewhat sensitive crop that can expose the farmer to losing everything in the case of draught or flood, both of which are frequent in the major farming communities. Bamboo, in contrast, is both draught and flood-tolerant, making it a low-maintenance, easy-to-grow crop.
Additionally, rather than requiring costly and damaging pesticides, bamboo has natural anti-bacterial agents that make it unattractive to pests. Additionally, because it grows in such dense forests, it naturally inhibits weeds, eliminating the need for chemical herbicides. Its healthy root system enriches rather than depletes the soil's resources, meaning that it does not require added fertilizers, which frequently cause pollution in farm areas and everything downstream.
As for the world at large, bamboo's dense forests allow it to release up to 30% more oxygen into the air than a comparable stand of trees, thereby cleaning the air. Additionally, although it is a sturdy and long-lasting fiber, it is also 100% biodegradable. Unknown to many consumers, most fabrics contain chemical additives that inhibit natural breakdown in the municipal landfills.
Bamboo fibers can be used for all types of clothing. It is incredibly soft, with a silky, smooth texture far more luxurious than even the finest cotton, and has an appearance frequently compared to silk or cashmere. Items that are increasingly available in many U.S. stores include sheets and other bedclothes, towels and bathmats, and, of course clothing.
Its highly durable fibers make it an excellent choice for items that get a lot of use and need to be washed frequently. Although you should always check the manufacturers washing instructions, most bamboo items can be washed along with all other clothing in a standard washing machine, using standard washing products. They can also be dried in the dryer.
Bamboo has natural anti-bacterial properties. Bamboo is an excellent choice for children's clothing and active wear for people of all ages based on these qualities combined with moisture-wicking and natural UV-protection.
Because of its smooth fibers and the lack of chemical additives (bamboo is bleached without using chlorine), bamboo is a popular choice for infants. In fact, it is difficult to match this durable, fast-drying cloth with natural anti-bacterial properties when it comes to clothing a delicate new baby.
And, finally, it is important to address a significant and important question that inevitably comes up when discussing bamboo fibers: are we taking food away from pandas? Thankfully, the answer is "no." The type of bamboo used to produce fabric is Phyllostachys Pubescens, also called Moso bamboo. Moso is a different type of tropical grass to the type that pandas eat, nor does growing Moso bamboo interfere with the panda's natural habitat.
Copyright (c) 2008 Virginia Ginsburg
Bamboo is commonly thought of in its construction and landscaping forms. Many, however, are catching on to the fact that it makes an excellent fabric. When processed (using natural and eco-friendly methods), bamboo fibers can be transformed into fabric that is softer than cotton with a drape like silk. It is less expensive and more durable but, most importantly, does far less damage to the environment even than organic cotton. It is luxuriously soft with what has been described as a similar feel to cashmere. Its cloth is an indulgence with its wonderful silky softness.
Bamboo clothing is for all seasons and for all skin types. It does not stick to the body or skin even on the hottest of days and will always make you feel extremely cool under any condition.
Bamboo Fabric is Green
Bamboo grows over 3.5ft/day at its maximum height during its peak growth. Unlike other forest trees which require a 60-year recovery period, natural bamboo plants are easily recovered within 2-3 years after cutting without leaving any adverse impact on the environment. A bamboo plantation requires less energy to maintain than any other trees or plants for fiber production. The bamboo plant can survive in drought and in flood.
Bamboo fiber is manufactured from 100% bamboo plant using top-of-the-line technologies. Most companies use raw bamboo that is 3-4 years old. Its vast root network assures its sustainability. As new shoots sprout, more sunlight is able to filter through, and greenhouse gases are converted into new green growth. The fiber is completely biodegradable in soil, making it eco-friendly. Bamboo fiber is praised as "the natural, green, and eco-friendly new-type textile material of 21st century."
Bamboo plants thrive even without any pesticide. Research has proven that bamboo contains "bamboo kun", a singular unique anti-bacteria and bacteriostasis bio-agent that when blended with bamboo binds tightly into the fiber. Bamboo fiber contains natural anti-bacterial components that, unlike chemical antimicrobial treatments, do not cause any skin irritation or allergies when added to clothing. The natural and unique features of anti-bacteria and deodorization of the bamboo fiber have been proven through research by the Japan Textile Inspection Association, which showed that the bacteriostasis is still present in the fabric even after being washed more than 50 times.
Bamboo Fabric is Gorgeous Bamboo fabric is destined to revolutionize the clothing industry. What is most notable of bamboo fiber is its unusual breathability and coolness. The micro-gaps & micro-holes that naturally occur in the bamboo fiber make its fabric moisture-absorbing and ventilating. This element enables bamboo fabric to absorb and eliminate moisture instantly. The textiles have many fantastic properties that when combined make this a truly amazing fabric - breathable and cool, nice luster; extremely soft; fast water absorption performance; and anti-bacterial. Those familiar with cotton, nylon and other textiles are amazed with the great difference and comfort bamboo fabric provides.
Bamboo Clothing has been tagged "Air-Conditioning Dress." The fiber is highly absorbent, moisture-rich, quick-drying, anti-bacterial, deodorizer, brightly colored yarn & ultimate softness is breaking textile markets and fashionistas' choices of clothing and apparel. Designers like as Kate O'Connor, known for creating ponchos and knits, have shifted from silk to the eco-friendly bamboo fabric. Other eco-fashion designers like Amanda Shi and Linda Loudermilk have followed suit.
Perhaps the best use of bamboo fibers is for babies, and lots of bamboo clothing is already available in the market, along with towels, blankets, and other linens. Whether at play or at sleep, babies are extremely comfortable when wearing bamboo fibers because the fiber keeps them cool and comfortable.
Virginia Ginsburg has sinced written about articles on various topics from Family, Health and Pets. Virginia Ginsburg specializes in research related to ecologically-sound life and business practices. She writes about green living and socially-conscious investing. Her company, Green Baby Gifts. Virginia Ginsburg's top article generates over 33100 views. to your Favourites.