If you wonder what Bamboo Viscose is; we’ll explain! Bamboo Viscose (also known as bamboo rayon) is also known as ‘regenerated bamboo‘. Its a regenerated cellulose fiber that has appeared on the market in the last 15 years for textiles in apparel and home furnishings. Products from regenerated bamboo are suitable for a wide range of end-uses, such as towels, bathrobes, and bedding. Also used as surgical clothes, food packaging and even hygiene products such as sanitary pads, surgical masks, bandages and mattresses.
Is Bamboo Viscose more expensive?
Bamboo viscose is in a slightly higher price range than other cellulose fibers, but it does have many advantages to other fabrics. It has exceptional properties such as superior comfort and hand, as well as being resistant to bacteria. Since it is classified as a grass, it also one of the world’s most sustainable resources. Bamboo is the fastest growing grass, it can grow up to 119 cm (3′) in 24 hours. It also does not require replanting after harvesting due to the development of a vast root network. The inherent antimicrobial properties of bamboo eliminate the need for pesticides and fertilizers. There’s no doubt that growing natural organic bamboo is beneficial to the environment.
How are Bamboo Viscose Fabrics Made?
Regenerated bamboo fibers are produced in a wet-spun process. Natural cellulose (in this case originating from mechanically crushed bamboo leaves and stems) is used as raw material in a hydrolysis–alkalization process (Erdumlu & Ozipek, 2008; Sui et al, 2003). The raw material is obtained from Moso bamboo. Most Bamboo Viscose yarns are produced in China, India and Pakistan.
A diluted solution of sodium hydroxide is added to the cellulose sodium xanthogenate. This dissolves it to afford a viscose solution consisting of about 5% sodium hydroxide and 7–15% bamboo fiber cellulose. After subsequent ripening, filtering and degassing, the viscose bamboo cellulose is forced through spinneret nozzles. It spins out into a large container containing a diluted sulphuric acid solution. This then hardens the viscose bamboo cellulose sodium xanthate and reconverts it into cellulose bamboo fiber filaments. These are cut into staple fibers and spun into bamboo fiber yarns.
BedVoyage Bamboo Fabrics
The terms often used when describing bamboo fabrics are: bamboo viscose, bamboo rayon, and rayon from bamboo. BedVoyage use the term ‘Viscose from Bamboo’ to describe our products. We can use either term because we feel customers can then recognize the terms are interchangeable. Bamboo fabrics have many benefits: its naturally hypoallergenic and thermal regulating, incredibly soft, helps you sleep cooler. Its also moisture wicking, and resists odor and bacteria, so the linens stay fresh longer.
How is Bamboo Dyed?
Both Rayon and Viscose are very absorbent and take dye very easily. BedVoyage uses Fiber Reactive dye as its perfect for all natural fibers. The ones it works best with is cotton, viscose bamboo, silk, wool and even wood and paper. The intensity of the colors can be from light pastels to very vibrant and deep colors. BedVoyage Sheet and Duvet Covers stay true, wash after wash, because the dye is colorfast. Reactive dye molecules combine with the molecules of the fabric to create a permanent bond, which becomes part of the fabric.
If you want to learn more, there’s a wonderful detailed article that describes what bamboo viscose means, you can read it here.
We’ve chosen to use viscose from Bamboo in BedVoyage Bedding as it most closely adheres to Federal Trade Commission guidelines. As well, we’re proud to manufacture our entire bedding line from 100% organically grown bamboo.
Go Green in Your Bed!
