HISTORY OF BAMBOO FIBER

Among all the crazes that have emerged in the 21st century,‘going green’ has taken the front seat in
almost every industry.

Even the fashion industry which is known for its concern in creating style and setting new trends has
incorporated ways to be more environmentally friendly. With the growing popularity of new fabric made
from bamboo, designers have slowly begun to use bamboo fabric in many collections.

HISTORY OF BAMBOO FIBER
Historically in Asia, bamboo was used for the hand-made production of paper. But thanks to modern
manufacturing, bamboo pulp is now capable of creating bamboo fiber which can be used to make yarn
and fabric. Bamboo fabric is a natural textile made from the pulp of the bamboo grass, the
bamboo fiber is then made by pulping the bamboo grass until it separates into thin threads of fiber, which
is then spun and dyed for weaving into cloth.

CHARACTERISTICS OF BAMBOO
Bamboo fabric is similar in softness to silk. Since the fibers are without chemical treatment, they are
naturally smoother and rounder with no sharp spurs to irritate the skin, making bamboo
fabric hypoallergenic and perfect for those who experience allergic reactions to other natural fibers such
as wool or hemp. On that same note, bamboo is also antibacterial and antifungal. This is because
bamboo possesses an anti-bacteria and bacteriostatic bio-agent called “bamboo kun” , allowing it
to naturally flourish and grow in the wild without the use of pesticides or fertilizers. This beneficial quality
of the plant remains in its textile form, killing all bacteria keeping the wearer feeling fresher and odor free
for longer, making the garment healthier and more hygienic.
Unlike many of the other fabrics, bamboo is extremely breathable. The natural bamboo plant keeps itself
cool in the heat and like its other properties, is also maintained in its fabric form. The cross-section of the
bamboo fiber is covered with micro-gaps giving the fabric better moisture absorption and ventilation.
As a result, it is able to keep the wearer almost two degrees cooler in the heat and noticeably warmer in
the cold. Bamboo fabric is also “anti static and UV protective as it cuts out 98% of harmful UV
rays”  providing the wearer with another beneficial quality from bamboo made clothing.

ECO-FRIENDLINESS OF BAMBOO
The most enticing aspect of bamboo fabric is that it is the most eco-friendly fabric on the planet.
Bamboo, a type of tropical grass, has an extensive rooting system that grows on average four to six new shoots a year, naturally replenishing itself. It is also 100% biodegradable, the most renewable resource
on our planet, and provides an abundance of usable oxygen making it a crucial element in the balance
between oxygen and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
As bamboo fabric is gaining popularity, there will naturally be an increase in growth and demand for more
bamboo plants. This could ultimately lead to an increased amount of photosynthesis and result in another
alternative to combating greenhouse gases.