Bamboo vs Cotton Bedding | SHEET STORY

Did you know the global bedding market was valued at $104 billion in 2023?

That's a lot.

If you're looking for stylish, comfortable, and practical bedding that complements the ambience of your bedroom, that figure could leave you feeling a bit confused.

With so many bedding providers and various sheets to choose from, it can often be hard to tell the difference.

Whether exploring our website, another bedding company's, or browsing in-store, you'll encounter a fascinating choice - bamboo or cotton, two distinct options for your bedding needs.

While we sell both types of bedding at Sheet Story, the two have key differences. To know more about bamboo vs cotton sheets, read the article below.

Ready?

Let's dive right in!

What is bamboo bedding?

Bamboo bedding is a type of bedding made from bamboo plants. Bamboo is transformed into a viscose solution. Then, it is spun into fibres of rayon, lyocell or modal.

As the fibres originate from pure bamboo, this type of bedding is one of the most renewable types and is an eco-friendly option. Bamboo is also a plant that grows quickly, and cultivating it involves extremely low pesticide use. Thus, the fabric is an eco-friendly and extremely sustainable option.

This natural fabric is perfect for sensitive skin. It's soft, silky and gently drapes over the skin, making it relaxing to lie in. Built into bamboo are natural cooling properties, moisture-wicking elements, making it a fantastic fabric that keeps warm sleepers cool. Being cool and dry to the touch, bamboo bedding can be an ideal option for summer. Bamboo sheets are also hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy-prone individuals.

What is cotton bedding?

Cotton sheets are another popular bedding choice; they're a fabric that has existed since 5000 BC. Just like its name suggests, cotton sheets are made from cotton plants. Typically, these fibres are picked, cleaned, and then spun into yarn, which is then woven into fabric.

Traditional cotton sheets are soft, breathable, and highly affordable. They're also hypoallergenic, making them ideal for allergy-prone individuals.

Their tight weave also prevents dust mites and allergens from becoming trapped in the bedding, reducing the likelihood of reactions. Cotton is also a biodegradable material, making it a more eco-friendly alternative to synthetic sheets.

Note: When you buy cotton sheets at Sheet Story, you also support farmers and communities- more on that later.

3 Common types of cotton sheets

When it comes to textiles, the fibres of cotton sheets are often broken down into categories according to their staple length. In other words, the average length of individual fibres that make up cotton. It's an important part that plays a role in the crispness and quality of the finished cotton fabric. Generally, you'll come across three types of cotton according to the staple length.

• Short-Staple Cotton (less than 1 1/8 in) : This type of cotton is not only less expensive but also readily available, making it a popular choice for mass production and standard consumer-grade products.

• Long-Staple Cotton (1 1/8 in and 1 1/4 in): Soft, stronger and more durable fabric than short staple cotton. Produces higher quality clothing and sheets with a luxurious feel. At Sheet Story our Ella Cotton luxury sheets are a long staple.

• Extra-Long-Staple (ELS) Cotton (1 3/8 inc): This type of cotton is known for its unique softness, luxurious feel, strength, and durability. It comes in different varieties, such as Egyptian cotton, Pima cotton, and Sea Island cotton. However, it is often highly expensive to buy.

Bamboo vs cotton sheets?

Now you have an idea of cotton and bamboo bed sheets, let's compare the two types side by side:

Thread count

When looking for bedding, you'll want to look at the thread count. Generally, a high thread count is associated with a higher quality of bed linen that's softer. Bamboo fibres tend to be softer.

However, many cotton sheet sets with a high thread count provide a gentle touch. Generally quality bamboo sheets tend to be softer than regular cotton sheets.

Softness

Comparing the softness level of bamboo and cotton sheets can be subjective. Bamboo generally tends to be softer than cotton. However long staple and extra long staple cotton are smoother than usual cotton.

Maintenance

Cotton bedding is highly durable and often extremely easy to care for. It can be washed at high temperatures, we suggest a maximum of 40 °C for bamboo and cotton.

Environmental impact

Out of the two types of sheets, bamboo fabric is deemed the more sustainable option for your bedroom. Bamboo pulp grows extremely fast, and its cultivation involves low pesticide use. Meanwhile, traditional cotton can often contain high amounts of water and pesticides.

At Sheet Story, even with our cotton sheets, we make a conscious effort to use as few pesticides as possible to ensure we contribute to our commitment to the environment.

Breathability

When it comes to moisture wicking and breathability, both types of fabric are equally effective. They both provide maximum comfort, keep skin dry, and prevent dampness in humid temperatures.

Bamboo and cotton sheets- which to choose?

So, what's better for your bedroom—bamboo sheets or cotton sheets? Well, both bamboo and cotton sheets have their own charm and characteristics. To understand what we mean, let's quickly look at our Sheet Story collections.

Ella Cotton

If you're seeking premium quality at an affordable price tag, then the Ella Cotton Collection may be ideal for you. Its 400 thread count and long staple soft sateen weave, made by exquisite craftsmen, ensures a plush feel and a good night's sleep.

Ella provides similar high-end features of luxury bedding brands, such as enhanced durability and a stunning aesthetic, just without the hefty price tag.

Ackly Bamboo

The Ackly Bamboo Collection is a conscious blend of 65% bamboo and 35% cotton, providing an optimal balance of comfort and durability. Bringing out the best of the fibres from both blends, Ackly provides a soft, silky, and elegant feel enhanced by a sateen weave, a luxurious addition to your bedroom.

Usually, bamboo bed sheets require delicate handling; however, this cotton-blend Ackly Bamboo is robust. It can also handle temperatures up to 40 degrees Celsius when washed and tumbled dry. Our Ackly Bamboo collection brings the best of both worlds to your bedroom.

Bella Flannelette

Bella Flannelette may be the best if you're looking for warm and cosy bedding that keeps you snug in winter. Carefully crafted with 100% cotton natural fibres, integrated with special treatments and advanced manufacturing technology, Bella Flannelette boasts a luxurious bedding experience. Due to the careful manufacturing processes involved, Bella Flannelette stays plush and fluffy after multiple washes.

In Summary

Overall, there's no superior choice between bamboo sheets and cotton sheets. It all depends on what is most relevant to your preferences, aesthetics, and the story you wish to tell. If you want the best of both, opt for our Ackly Bamboo.

Our Ella Cotton sheets provide a premium feel if you're looking for classic and soft bedding. Yet if temperature matters to you, the breathability of Bella Flanelette and its warming properties can keep you comfortable in cold temperatures.

If you're still unsure about the best choice for your bedroom, whether it's bamboo or cotton sheets, reach out to us.

Our dedicated Sheet specialists are always ready to assist you in making an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences.