The Wonderful World of Bamboo

When it comes to lifestyle choices, we are all looking for ways to improve them—especially when it comes to living more sustainably. Are you looking for a place to start? Or have you already been taking big green strides towards creating an eco-friendly home? Wherever you are on your journey, allow us to introduce you to a wonder plant that can keep you in dreamy comfort on your way.

Bamboo is fast becoming the go-to for more and more of our home essentials. Have you heard of the incredibly versatile fabric? If not, we will fill you in. Bamboo is a speedy-growing grass with a hollow stem. There are over 14,000 species of versatile plants growing all over the world, including 1,000 different bamboo species. Bamboo’s magic is not just in its super-soft feel and abundant skin benefits. It is one of the most sustainable resources in the world.

So… without further a dew (dew as in grass dew… get it? Never mind) let’s discover more about nature’s cosiest charm.

Where is Bamboo found?

Traditionally and in its rich cultural history, bamboo has grown in warm, tropical climates such as Africa, Asia and Australia. However, they are pretty tough plants and can tolerate extreme conditions. With increased awareness of the sustainable utility of bamboo, significant developments have been made in its cultivation. Uganda has launched a 10-year action plan to capitalise on its 55,000 hectares of the plant, tapping into a global market estimated at 60 million USD. Europe is following suit with its “Bamboo Europe” research project, which focuses on growing the plant in underutilised lands in Southern Europe, such as Portugal. So when it comes to the fast-growing wonder plant, a sky-rocketing future seems written in the stars.

How fast does Bamboo grow?

Blink, and you miss it! Well, not quite. However, Bamboo is the fastest-growing plant in the world. There are mixed opinions on exactly how much it can grow in a single day, so it is best to turn to the good old Guinness Book of World Records! The record celebrates a nippy little species that can grow up to 35 inches per day. Move over Jack and the Beanstalk, which is more like Jack and the Bamboo Stalk. An average plant can grow from 3-4 feet a day, making organic bamboo a wonderfully sustainable resource with heaps of natural benefits.

No wonder action is being taken to ensure its continued survival, particularly in Rwanda, where research has focused on bamboo shoots over the last six years. The study reveals the link between the reduction in cultivation and environmental impacts. Our wildlife thrives on bamboo, too, especially our personal favourite, the Panda, who munches up to 84 kilos of the wonderful stuff a day.

How is Bamboo turned into a homeware and why is it so popular?

The popularity of bamboo is growing as quickly as the plant itself, with incredible advances in the speed and way it is produced. India has even pioneered the conversion of bamboo into biofuel using ‘Sulzer’s technology’, utilising its 300,000 tonnes of bamboo annually. This reveals the unexpected versatility of the plant, which is still unfolding, marking an exciting development that could have transformative effects on the environment.

And as for our most loved brands, with social and professional pressure to align with a more sustainable future many are choosing bamboo as an eco-friendly alternative to cotton and other materials. This is a great thing for the global home-ware industry, which is having glowing effects on our planet. We are all looking for ways to be more eco-friendly at home. Many believe that the ‘sustainable choice’ comes at a cost, be it in price or comfort. This status quo is quickly changing, with more consumers tapping into the durability and luxurious benefits of the fabric. Here at Panda London, all of our world-loved bedding and home products are created to build a bridge between luxury and sustainability at home.

So how is bamboo turned from a plant into our cosy, soft bedding sets?

Here’s the most frequently used method for how the plant is broken down:

1. Bamboo is planted, usually in Spring and it starts to grow
2. The plants are harvested
3. It is then cut into smaller strips and chips
4. The chips are made into a pulp 
5. The pulp is poured through a filter to create long fibres
6. The fibres are softened with a little amine oxide
7. They are then spun into a yarn
8. Finally they are weaved into a soft, breathable fabric

Some of the most common fabrics you will see on your labels are Raylon or Lyocell. Lyocell fabric is made using a more natural process, with all materials going back into nature’s cycle—saving 98% water and using zero chemical

Why is Bamboo good for the planet?

Did you know that one hectare of bamboo can absorb around 17 tonnes of carbon per year? Impressive stuff, right? Researchers in India have also discovered that a certain species can sequester carbon dioxide, making it a promising carbon sink. The potential for the plant in terms of protecting our planet is clearly huge!

When it comes to production, farming requires very little maintenance. There is no need to replant it as it miraculously continues to create new sprouts! It doesn’t rely on any pesticides or herbicides and drinks a third less water than cotton (in case you were wondering). It is, drumroll please… the fastest-growing plant in the world. The quicker a plant grows, the quicker it can be used as a resource, like keeping up with the ever-increasing demand for lifestyle products. Though the biggest planet-friendly benefit? Its ability to absorb carbon dioxide and turn it into o2. Bamboo naturally makes the air we breathe cleaner. There is more…the strength of the fabric- some fibres have been compared to steel. When you switch to bamboo bedding, mattress toppers and pillows, you won’t need to change them for a super long time. Here at Panda, we lower our carbon footprint one step further by collecting and recycling the items you use when you have finished them (for free). Another way we can help keep you sleeping soundly.

Why is Bamboo good for you?

The recognition of bamboo as a wonder plant for the planet has been highlighted in several global and regional initiatives, most notably the International Bamboo and Rattan Organisation (INBAR). This is aimed at promoting the development of bamboo for its abundant agricultural benefits.

So, what benefits does the fabric have for you, personally?

Not being treated means it doesn’t hold onto odours- so no more stinky bed sheets! Being hypo-allergenic makes it perfect for those with allergies, and its superior softness makes it unparalleled when it comes to comfort. Move over cotton, the wonder plant is four times more absorbent when it comes to zapping moisture keeping bedding nice and fresh. If you’re not a fan of bed bugs…the fabric is naturally resistant to dust mites, mould and mildew. Though the biggest magic of Bamboo? It brings natural five-star comfort to your home with minimum impact on our world.

Conclusion

Bamboo has long been used for its versatility and natural benefits, from medicinal and nutritional food sources to making all kinds of lifestyle products. However, it seems only recently that its true potential is being tapped into. In today’s world, it is being discovered for more and more life-changing uses, from cosy home and bedding products to, yep, even biofuels.

Small changes together can make a big difference when it comes to creating a more sustainable world. With big organisations and businesses exploring bamboo’s unexplored potential, we can already enjoy its abundant benefits at home. What products are you going to try to switch to bamboo? Tag and share with us on Instagram for a chance to be featured on our feed, and be a part of our continued journey to build a strong bridge between luxury and sustainability.

After some inspiration? Explore our beautiful Bamboo Bedding, Bath and Kids collections for your first or next eco-friendly switch.

FAQ