Bamboo washcloths and face cloths, like other bamboo material clothing, bedding and towels, can absolutely be washed safely in the washing machine as long as some care is taken with your choice of detergent and the temperature of the water.
Do bamboo washcloths require any special laundry detergent or fabric softener?
When washing bamboo-based items they should be washed in a gentle detergent as you would wool or other delicate items, on a gentle cycle of your washing machine.
Bamboo washcloths should be washed at a cool temperature (30 degrees c) or a cold wash in order to maintain their shape and reduce shrinkage.
The only time you should not use the washing machine is if your bamboo fabric has been mixed with wool such as merino. In these cases, a handwash would be advisable (as with most wool items).
Can bamboo washcloths be washed on a cold wash?
So buying bamboo washcloths is the perfect choice for the planet as not only does the washcloth’s material come from a sustainable source, but it also continues to reduce greenhouse gases by only needing a cold wash.
Did you know that almost 90% of the energy used by your washing machine is used to heat the water?
So you can save the planet AND your money at the same time!
Once they’ve been washed, drying them outside is not only the most ecologically friendly option but also the best way to maintain the shape of your bamboo items.
If that’s not possible and you use a dryer, use the lowest heat setting possible to maintain the shape and feel of your items.
Can bamboo washcloths be washed with other types of fabric in the washing machine?
Yes, bamboo washcloths can typically be washed with other types of fabric in the washing machine. However, it’s important to consider the washing instructions for each type of fabric to ensure they are compatible.
For example, if you are washing bamboo washcloths with cotton towels, it’s recommended to wash them together on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent. Additionally, avoid washing bamboo washcloths with items that may snag or damage the fabric, such as clothing with zippers or hooks.
Will washing bamboo washcloths in the washing machine cause them to shrink or lose their softness?
Bamboo washcloths are typically designed to withstand washing in a washing machine without shrinking or losing their softness, as long as they are washed according to the care instructions provided by the manufacturer.
However, it’s important to note that certain factors, such as using high heat settings in the washing machine or dryer, may cause the fabric to shrink or lose its softness over time.
To prevent this from happening, it’s recommended to wash bamboo washcloths on a gentle cycle using cool or warm water, and to avoid using high heat settings when drying them.
Additionally, avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, as these may damage the fabric and cause it to lose its softness.
Benefits of bamboo washcloths.
Bamboo washcloths are a great choice when switching from cotton or polycotton blends.
Not only are you making a positive ecological change but you’re getting a tonne of other benefits by switching to bamboo.
Antibacterial
Bamboo products are naturally antibacterial which means they reduce odours and mould growth along with halting any bacterial growth. That’s super important when it comes to anything coming into contact with your skin.
Sensitive skin
Bamboo fibres are naturally rounded at the ends which means when they’re made into a fabric it becomes super-soft and gets softer with each wash.
Although the mention of bamboo brings to mind the hard stems of the bamboo plant, bamboo fabrics feel silky smooth and soft. People imagine them to be papery but they are, instead, surprised by the luxurious feel.
This makes it the perfect fabric for use on sensitive skin and babies.
Compostable
Once your bamboo washcloths start to show wear and tear (which will be some time yet! Bamboo fabric is really robust and strong) they can be composted!
Most bamboo fabrics can be composted at the end of their lives and take around a year to decompose back into the soil. Just remember to remove any zips or buttons first.
Absorbs more moisture than cotton
In fact, bamboo absorbs almost twice the amount of moisture than cotton.
This means your washcloth will retain more water and soap for longer while you wash reducing the amount of soap you use.
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