Bamboosa: Bamboo Fiber Clothing
by on 04.17.05
Bamboosa makes clothing out of bamboo fiber blended with organic cotton. Sounds strange? Apparently bamboo makes a durable and very soft fabric. It has a natural sheen and feels similar to silk or cashmere. Like other natural fibers such as hemp, it is anti-bacterial, breathable and biodegradable.
Bamboosa is a sweatshop-free company, and all its clothing is produced in a factory in Andrews, South Carolina. The bamboo is planted and grown on family-owned farms that have been in agricultural use for generations in China. Bamboosa also uses eco-friendly dyes and 100% recycled paper in their packaging.
:: Bamboosa
[by Justin Thomas]
Why did it take this long for bamboo to become a popular resource for all of this stuff (alluding to bamboo-based fabrics, flooring, cutting boards, etc)? Do other cultures use it like this, but Americans were just comfortable with their cotton/wood/plastics?
Christy, the US cotton industry is heavily subsidized. As far as I can tell, this is one of the effects of the WTO.
I've ordered a pair of Bamboosa shorts - I asked that they be undyed. I'll send an update after I've tried them.
Ben, I'd be interested in hearing about the shorts. Thanks.
Ben and Thurston,
I have tried the shorts (mine are blue) from Bamboosa and found them to be very soft and comfortable. They are great for working out or for lounging around. The tee shirts are also very light and comfortable. What is claimed for the bamboo fabric is true; it feels like something between silk and cashmere.
Ben,
If you are looking for unbleached/undyed bamboo shirts I have them. The crew style is 70% bamboo/30% cotton. The V-neck is 100% bamboo and has tapered sides. $12.00 each plus tax, plus shipping.
I am trying to buy American made products where ever possible. I heard about your factory and it looks good except that the Bamboo is grown in China. Why not buy American grown bamboo?
Elizabeth