Bamboo Sheets Will Keep You Cool When You Sleep—Learn About Their Many Benefits and How to Wash Them

Getting a good night's sleep can be as simple as changing out your sheets. That might sound too good to be true—but if you have sensitive skin, are a hot sleeper, or simply lay awake worrying about the environment, soft, comfortable, and eco-friendly bamboo sheets might just be the answer to your sleep dilemmas (well, at least a few of them). As with cotton and silk linens, there are a few things to consider before you invest in bamboo sheets.

Four things to keep in mind are weave, fit, price, and thread count, notes Logan Foley, a certified sleep science coach and managing editor of SleepFoundation.org. "There are many different weaves that are available when buying bamboo sheets," says Foley. "They are typically woven with sateen, twill, or percale patterns. All of these weaves have pros and cons, and shoppers should look into all of these to ensure their needs are met."

As for price? Costs vary when it comes to bamboo sheets, says Foley. "They can range from $50 to $300. Price can be affected by thread count, manufacturing processes, and organic certifications," she says. Finally, think about thread count, which is the number of threads found in a single square inch of fabric, she explains: "Because bamboo threads are very fine, a thread count of 300 or higher is ideal."

Still not sure if bamboo sheets are right for you and your sleep needs? Consider the following arguments for making the switch to this bedding type—and, if you do decide to invest, learn how to best care for bamboo sheets when you're ready to give them a wash.

Eco-Friendly Qualities

According to the Scientific World Journal, bamboo's fast growth, high biomass, and high efficiency makes it a superior plant that can be used in a number of material goods. Its counterpart cotton, though also a natural fiber, needs a lot of water to grow—which means it's decidedly less eco-friendly than bamboo.

Ideal for Hot Sleepers

Bamboo sheets are made from bamboo fibers, which, when woven, result in a lightweight, breathable fabric that can prevent sleepers from overheating at night, Foley explains. "It is excellent at preventing heat retention and wicking moisture," she says. "Maintaining a cool body temperature while you sleep is a key component of getting an uninterrupted eight hours."

Plus, it is more sustainable and cooler to the touch than materials like cotton, which is also known to strip the body of natural oils.

Sensitive Skin and Allergies

Bamboo sheets' breathable, absorbent qualities also make them a good option for those with sensitive skin, says Marisa Garshick, MD, board-certified dermatologist at MDCS Dermatology. "Since they help to absorb excess moisture, they can help reduce any irritation that can be related to sweating," she says. "Bamboo sheets often feel soft and smooth on the skin, which can be important for those with eczema or sensitive skin to prevent further irritation. Bamboo is also naturally antimicrobial."

Avoid Irritating Materials

Those with sensitive skin should avoid materials that trap heat or those that can be irritating to the skin, such as wool, flannel, or polyester, explains Dr. Garshick. "Other synthetic fabrics such as nylon, rayon, and spandex should be avoided with eczema as they are not generally that breathable and can trap heat and sweat, potentially leading to more skin irritation," she says.

Hypoallergenic Qualities

Bamboo sheets are also helpful for those with seasonal allergies. "Bamboo sheets are a great option for people suffering from allergies, as they are hypoallergenic and resist allergens like dust mites, mildew, and mold," says Foley.

How to Wash Bamboo Sheets

There are many perks to sleeping on bamboo sheets, but this type of material requires just as much care as other bedding types on the market.

Washing

Always follow the brand's instructions on how to wash bamboo sheets. If they are machine washable, clean them with like colors only or by themselves, advises Stephen Light, the CEO and co-owner at Nolah Technologies. "Use a mild liquid detergent without bleach or hydrogen peroxide, and do not add fabric softener," he says. Always wash bamboo sheets with cold water on a gentle cycle; using hot water can cause shrinkage or pilling.

Treating Stains

Use a stain cleaning agent to touch up tough spots before the wash, says Brooke Alexander, the chief brand officer at Nest Bedding. Then, run the sheets through a wash cycle with an appropriate detergent.

Want to go the DIY route? Aside from treating stains with a mix of water and mild liquid detergent, you can also use vinegar to tackle spots. "You can try applying a 1:4 mixture of white vinegar and water to the affected area," says Light. "Let it sit for a few hours, then machine wash the sheets as normal." Always avoid using bleach or other harsh chemicals, as they can break down the fibers, he says.

Drying

You have a few options when it comes to drying your bamboo sheets. "Hang to dry (if you like a firm feeling) or tumble dry on low heat," says Alexander. Line-drying also preserves the elasticity and color, notes Light. Again, always check the care label for the manufacturer's specific guidance.