What Is Bamboo Viscose? Fabric, Feel and Care Explained
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Bamboo viscose is a soft, fluid fabric made from bamboo pulp. It's the fabric we use for every HAMORÉ piece, so here is a plain explanation of what it is, and what it isn't.
What is bamboo viscose?
Bamboo viscose (sometimes labelled "viscose from bamboo" or "bamboo rayon") is a regenerated cellulose fibre. Cellulose is taken from bamboo pulp, dissolved, and pushed through fine nozzles to form new filaments. These are spun into yarn and then knitted or woven into fabric.
That's why it's called regenerated: the bamboo's cellulose is broken down and re-formed. It's different from raw bamboo fibre, which is mechanically separated from the stalk and feels much coarser, a bit like linen.
How does it feel?
- Smooth and soft: the filaments are fine and even, so the fabric has a gentle sheen and a cool, smooth hand.
- Fluid: it drapes and moves with the body rather than standing away from it.
- Light and breathable: our jersey is lightweight and lets air move through it.
Our fabric is 96% bamboo viscose and 4% elastane. The small amount of elastane adds stretch and helps pieces keep their shape.
Bamboo viscose vs cotton sleepwear
| Bamboo viscose jersey | Cotton jersey | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Smooth, cool, silky handle | Soft, matte, slightly drier handle |
| Drape | Fluid; falls close to the body | More structured |
| Care | Gentle wash, no tumble dryer | Usually more robust |
Neither is "better" for everyone. If you like a fluid, silky feel, bamboo viscose is worth trying; if you prefer a crisp, structured pyjama, a woven cotton might suit you more.
Is bamboo viscose sustainable?
It depends on how it's made. The bamboo plant grows quickly, but turning it into viscose is a chemical process, and its environmental impact depends on the chemicals used and how the factory manages them. We don't describe our fabric as sustainable. What we can tell you is that our fabric is certified to OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100, which means it has been tested for harmful substances. That's a safety standard, not an environmental one.
How to care for bamboo viscose
Wash cold, at 30°C or below, on a delicate cycle. Skip the tumble dryer and dry flat. See our full guide: How to Wash and Care for Bamboo Viscose Nightwear.
Shop the fabric: Bamboo pyjamas · Bamboo nightwear