March 27, 2023 7 min read

When it comes to choosing the right type of bed sheets, the material you select is probably the most important factor of all. Bamboo sheets are quickly becoming a popular choice due to their softness and use of sustainable materials. So, are bamboo sheets good, and are they better than cotton when it comes to enjoying a comfortable night’s sleep? This guide will take a closer look at bamboo vs cotton sheets so you can decide which option is right for your needs. While both of these materials are exceptional, there are a few important things you need to know about bamboo to help you make an informed decision.

What are bamboo sheets?

Bamboo sheets are extremely soft, which makes them gentle and hypoallergenic for those with allergies or sensitive skin. This sustainable material is made without the use of harsh chemicals, and the sheets are cooling and moisture-wicking. True bamboo sheets are made using a range of materials from bamboo fibers. Many eco-conscious consumers prefer to purchase bamboo sheets thanks to the materials’ sustainable qualities.

Since bamboo is a very fast-growing plant, it requires no deforestation to harvest it, and most products made using bamboo are completely organic. Growing bamboo doesn’t require the use of insecticides or fertilizer, and it also does not require irrigation. This means that it takes much less water to grow than some other plants that are used to make various fabrics for bedding and other purposes.

Comparison to other types of sheets

When deciding between cotton or bamboo sheets, it’s important to know the difference between the two materials. While cotton is also soft and breathable, it’s important to ensure that you choose 100 percent organic cotton sheets if you want to purchase a sustainable product. Percale cotton sheets are lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking, making them the best option among the various types of this material.

Flannel sheets are much thicker and don’t allow for good airflow, making them too hot for most sleepers. While bamboo sheets may cost more than cotton, they’re also less prone to wrinkling and shrinking in the wash. We’ll discuss a few important care tips for bamboo sheets later in the guide.

Bamboo sheet sample Sheet set folded

The advantage of bamboo sheets

charcoal bed sheets san sheet sample

If you want to learn more about the advantages of bamboo sheets, here are some of the perks of this soft, comfortable bedding:

  • Softness: Most bamboo sheets are extremely soft and smooth to the touch, which makes them a great option for people with sensitive skin or with allergies. The level of softness may depend on the weave of the bamboo sheets and which materials are blended with them. Overall, these sheets are exceptionally soft and comfortable on the skin.
  • Breathability: Bamboo sheets are lightweight and breathable, making them an excellent choice for hot sleepers. The material allows for excellent airflow, which means you’ll stay nice and cool throughout the night. These sheets are also resistant to bacteria so they’re fresh and clean for much longer than some other materials.
  • Moisture-wicking: If you sweat during the night, bamboo sheets are a great option since they “wick” moisture away from the body. Not only does this keep you cooler and more comfortable, but it also helps to prevent the occurrence of night sweats to help you sleep soundly throughout the night. The less moisture in your bed, the fewer allergies you’ll have and it won’t create a breeding habitat for dust mites and other allergens.
  • Eco-friendly: Bamboo sheets are sustainable, so they’re eco-friendly and healthier for the planet than many other options. Always make sure that you purchase 100 percent organic bamboo sheets for the best and most eco-friendly choice. This sustainable material is better for the planet than synthetic bedding that’s made in a factory and which typically contains harsh toxins and chemicals that are used during the manufacturing process.
Dark grey bedding

The disadvantages of bamboo sheets

As with any product, there are a few disadvantages to bamboo sheets, including:

  • Durability: Other sheets like cotton tend to be more durable than bamboo. Without proper care, bamboo sheets can eventually break down and suffer from holes and visible wear and tear.
  • Pilling: Some bamboo sheets are prone to pilling, which can make them look unattractive. Pilling is when a fabric has small balls of lint that form on the surface of the material, usually as a result of wear and tear or improper cleaning and drying.
  • Price: While bamboo sheets are certainly luxurious, they also tend to cost more than other options like cotton. When you consider bamboo vs cotton sheets, it’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices. If you’re looking for something that’s sustainable and soft, organic cotton is typically a less expensive choice.
  • Care instructions: It’s important to follow the care instructions for your bamboo sheets carefully. While care instructions may differ, most bamboo sheets should be washed in cold water (at a maximum of 30 degrees) using a gentle, scent-free laundry detergent and line-dried to prevent wrinkles.

Are bamboo sheets actually good?

So, are bamboo sheets good for your sleeping needs? If you want something that’s soft, breathable, and sustainable, then these sheets are an excellent choice. Of course, there are some pros and cons that you should take into consideration before you make an investment in bamboo sheets.

Examination of the pros and cons

Here are some pros and cons of bamboo sheets to keep in mind.

PROS

  • Bamboo sheets are eco-friendly
  • These sheets are lightweight and breathable
  • Bamboo is moisture-wicking to help prevent night sweats
  • This material is very smooth and soft on the skin
  • With proper care, bamboo sheets should last for a few years

CONS

  • Bamboo sheets cost a lot more than some other options
  • Without proper care, this material can wrinkle or become damaged fairly easily
  • These sheets are prone to pilling under normal wear and tear

So, are bamboo sheets good? The answer is yes, especially if you’re looking for a supremely soft, sustainable set of sheets.

Is it healthy to sleep on bamboo sheets?

Bamboo is a naturally hypoallergenic material, which means that it’s great for those who have allergies and for people with sensitive skin. The bamboo fibers are also naturally resistant to bacteria and allergens, so the sheets are less prone to causing skin irritation than synthetic materials. And since this material is breathable and moisture-wicking, it also reduces sweating during the night to keep you cool and comfortable. Organic bamboo sheets are made without harsh chemicals and toxins, so you won’t need to worry about those items getting on your skin or breathing them in while you sleep. Overall, bamboo sheets are a very healthy choice for your sleeping needs.

Green Sage bed sheets

Is bamboo better than cotton?

When it comes to bamboo vs cotton sheets, there are a few important things to remember. First, organic cotton is also sustainable and healthy to sleep on, and in many cases, these sheets cost much less than bamboo.

Comparison of properties and benefits

Let’s compare the different properties and benefits of both cotton and bamboo sheets. Remember, it all comes down to your own personal preferences, but these comparisons can help you decide whether cotton or bamboo sheets are right for you.

  • Bamboo sheets tend to hold dye better than cotton, so they’re usually more colorfast even after several washings.
  • Cotton sheets are a bit easier to clean and they’re also usually more durable, too.
  • Most bamboo sheets are very smooth and soft, but the softness of cotton sheets usually depends on the weave and the blend of materials used.
  • When it comes to budget, cotton sheets tend to cost much less than bamboo and in many cases, they also last longer.
  • Both cotton and bamboo sheets are breathable which makes them a great choice to keep you cool and prevent night sweats.

Again, in the battle of bamboo vs cotton sheets, in many instances it really all comes down to your personal preferences based on which qualities are most important to you.

What sheets are better than bamboo?

Linen sheets are another option that could be better than bamboo. This natural material is made from flax plant stems and is extremely lightweight yet also highly durable. Linen is actually stronger than cotton and bamboo, and when properly cared for, these sheets can last for decades. Linen also gets softer over time and has a loose weave that’s naturally moisture-wicking to keep you cool and dry. Just like bamboo, linen sheets are naturally hypoallergenic and naturally antibacterial. But although these sheets seem similar, linen actually costs more than bamboo, which could be an issue if you’re looking for new sheets on a budget.

Organic cotton percale sheets are another great choice. If you overheat during the night and are prone to night sweats, then these sheets can be an excellent choice that’s less costly than bamboo. Just like linen, cotton sheets also get softer with every wash. This makes cotton sheets a great choice for those who want something cooling, soft, and affordable. Make sure you choose 100 percent organic cotton sheets if sustainability is important to you.

How long do bamboo sheets last?

Bamboo sheets can last for many years, but it depends on the quality of the material and how well you take care of them. Most bamboo sheets can last between five and six years, but they’ll last even longer if you rotate between two or more sets. Overall, cotton sheets tend to last longer than bamboo sheets before they need to be replaced.

Factors that affect the lifespan

Here are some factors that could affect the lifespan of bamboo sheets:

  • Washing bamboo sheets in hot water could cause premature wear and tear
  • Using the dryer can also cause bamboo sheets to wear out faster
  • Harsh detergents can break down the fibers of bamboo sheets faster

Factors that affect the lifespan

Use these tips to help your bamboo sheets last longer:

  • Always wash your sheets in cold water
  • Never use harsh detergents and use a mild fragrance-free detergent when washing bamboo sheets
  • Line dry your sheets, or toss them in the dryer on the low setting for no longer than 5-10 minutes
  • Use dryer balls instead of dryer sheets to prevent the fabric from breaking down

Final thoughts on Bamboo vs Cotton Sheets: Which Sheets Are Better

When it comes to cotton vs bamboo sheets, it’s really a matter of personal preference. Remember that organic cotton and linen sheets are both also extremely soft, sustainable, and breathable, too. Use the tips from this guide to help you compare sheets, and explore the selection at Or & Zon to discover a fantastic variety of exceptionally soft, sustainable sheet sets including our gorgeous, eco-friendly stonewashed linen sheet sets and so much more.