At The Linen Closet, we get asked about bamboo and what properties of bamboo make is special:

• Bamboo fiber is a revolutionary new fabric that has everyone all a buzz. The first thing you notice is how extremely soft bamboo fabric is. Hard to believe this stuff is made from trees (actually I think bamboo is classified as a grass.) They grind up the stalks until they’re pulp. The pulp is blended, stretched and compressed into bales of bamboo fluff. The fluffy stuff is then spun and woven into fine bamboo fiber. The fabrics range from soft supple jersey and smooth sheeting to silky terry.
  
  
• Bamboo is environmentally friendly. Bamboo is naturally antibacterial so no pesticides are needed in its growth. Its a sustainable crop and is completely biodegradable. It grows quickly and can be harvested with virtually no impact to the environment. An added bonus, bamboo emits 35% more oxygen than the equivalent stand of trees.
  
  
• Bamboo fabric is absorbent. The cross-section of bamboo fiber reveals various micro-holes, allowing bamboo cloth to have superior moisture absorption. This allows it to absorb and evaporate human sweat rapidly when used in nightgowns and lounge wear. It’s absorbency also makes it perfect for towels!
  
  
• Bamboo is antibacterial. It contains a naturally occurring anti-microbial agent, kun, that prevents bacteria from cultivating on it. This means bamboo fabric actually kills odors. Nice for lounge wear. It’s antibacterial properties are also a real benefit in towels, which will stay fresher between washings.
  
  
• The list of advantages also includes bamboo fabrics breathability, its washability and durability. But, as good as all that sounds, its best feature is its incredible softness. I guess we could call that its “butterbility.”
  
  Patty Costanzo
  The Linen Closet