Comparing bamboo and eucalyptus sheets can be tricky. They both have benefits that make them popular choices for bedding, but they also have some key differences. Keep reading to learn more about bamboo vs eucalyptus sheets so you can decide which one is right for you.
What is Eucalyptus?
Eucalyptus is a genus of flowering shrubs and trees in the Myrtaceae family (myrtle). Most are endemic to Australia, but they are also found in other parts of the world, including North America, Africa, Europe, and Asia.
The Eucalyptus plant has many uses, including making pulp, building materials, aromatic oils, and more. The oils extracted from its leaves can help treat wounds, colds, and many other ailments. Recently, it has been recognized that eucalyptus trees can also be used to make quality bedding, which is what we are going to talk about today.
What are Eucalyptus Sheets?
Eucalyptus sheets are made from eucalyptus trees; the fiber is obtained from the pulp of sustainably grown trees. The eucalyptus fibers contained in eucalyptus sheets do not come from these leaves, but from the wood itself. You can also call this type of fabric Tencel sheet or eucalyptus lyocell. During the Lyocell process, the process most commonly used to make eucalyptus sheets, eucalyptus wood pulp is spun together with chemicals to create the fabric.
Although these chemicals can be hazardous to the environment, many eucalyptus sheet manufacturers use a “closed-loop system.” This means water and chemicals are used over and over again, thus making the process sustainable and less harmful to the environment.
However, not all eucalyptus sheets meet the highest ecological standards. Some brands “greenwash” by promoting their products as “green” when they are anything but “green.” Be sure to do your research when buying eucalyptus sheets to ensure you’re getting a high-quality, organic product. Tencel fabric sheets are typically a good place to start and look for Oeko-Tex-certified sheets.
Although eco-friendly, eucalyptus sheets are hydrophilic; Which means that they absorb moisture. This can increase the odor that the fabric gives off and can also lead to mold growth if the sheets are quickly not dried after use. Depending on your climate, they tend to dry out faster than cotton, which may or may not matter to you.
Beyond that, eucalyptus fiber is grown without harsh and toxic chemicals, fertilizers, or pesticides, making it safe for allergy sufferers.
Benefits and Downsides of Eucalyptus Sheets
All the practices and standards aside, what do eucalyptus sheets really look like? Well, first of all, they are known for being silky smooth. Although eucalyptus isn’t a naturally soft material, the production process results in a fairly soft fabric. Genuine silk can be quite pricey, so eucalyptus sheets (though not exactly cheap) can be a cheaper alternative.
Additionally, eucalyptus sheets are known for their cooling properties and breathability. Eucalyptus bedding allows good air circulation and absorbs moisture naturally. This helps dissipate body heat while you sleep. Most eucalyptus sheets are antimicrobial and hypoallergenic. They do not trap allergens and resist the build-up of bacteria. This makes the sheets an excellent choice for people with sensitive skin and allergies.
Eucalyptus sheets are extremely durable as well. They are designed to withstand many years of usage, washing, and drying. Of course, this varies from one product to another, so take proper care of your eucalyptus sheets and they will last you for years.
There is a lot to admire about eucalyptus bed sheets, but they have their downsides. Some users find that eucalyptus sheets are not very soft, but there are ways to reduce this issue. After washing, remove the sheets from the dryer immediately and hang them outside in direct sunlight. UV rays naturally penetrate the fibers and soften them over time.
Another disadvantage of these sheets is that they are very prone to wrinkling and are difficult to maintain after washing or drying. Wrinkles don’t disappear easily on these sheets, which means you’ll be spending more time holding an iron to keep them looking good.
What is Bamboo?
Bamboo is a type of woody plant that grows up to 100 feet tall and three inches in diameter. It has been used around the world as a scaffold, weapon, utensil, and even a musical instrument. Bamboo is so useful to humans that it has been cultivated for thousands of years.
Bamboo products are gaining more popularity over time. There are several uses for this amazing plant, but today we’re going to focus on bamboo used as bedding.
What are Bamboo Sheets?
Many people think that bamboo is very similar to silk due to its smooth texture and luxurious feel. Like eucalyptus fabric, bamboo sheets are made by extracting the pulp from the stems of sustainably grown bamboo trees, where the environmental impact is minimal.
As with eucalyptus sheets, bamboo has antifungal and antibacterial properties, making it a good choice for allergy sufferers. These sheets are known to repel dust mites and protect against fungus, mildew, and mold, making them perfect for sensitive skin.
To make bamboo fabric, manufacturers cut bamboo and treat it with chemicals such as sodium hydroxide. This helps extract the bamboo fibers from the plant itself. After treatment with some additional chemicals, the fibers can be woven into bamboo fabric.
While some bamboo sheets are also manufactured in a closed-loop system, many brands of bamboo sheets are not. Their manufacturing process can waste large amounts of water and produce heavy chemical runoff. Once more, this isn’t always the case, so research potential brands to find out exactly how they make their products. True environmentally-friendly brands tend to promote this a lot.
The Benefits and Downsides of Bamboo Sheets
These types of sheets are ideal for people who struggle with excessive sweating, as the bamboo helps wick moisture away from the body, allowing you to sleep more comfortably. Not only does it help keep you cool on hot summer nights, but it also insulates your body and keeps you warm in the colder months as well.
Bamboo is an extremely durable material and should last for several years. Bamboo fibers are typically longer than other fibers so they can withstand more intense use. Like eucalyptus bedding, they are an excellent long-term investment.
People with allergies and those who want clean sheets will also appreciate bamboo sheets. They are antibacterial and hypoallergenic and should not aggravate your allergies or trap unwanted bacteria.
Sadly, just like eucalyptus bed sheets, bamboo sheets wrinkle quickly after use. You can counteract this by hanging the sheets to dry immediately after washing. Additionally, you can minimize wrinkles on these sheets by ironing them on a low setting.
What Are the Main Differences Between Bamboo and Eucalyptus Bedding?
These two bedding types have a lot in common; both work well for people with allergies as well as other sensitivities to dust mites and chemicals. Both materials protect the environment and contribute to a more natural sleeping experience. Compared to other bedding products, bamboo and eucalyptus sheets offer wear resistance and durability. This means they last longer than your average cotton sheet set.
Although both are environmentally friendly, eucalyptus sheets go through a closed-loop manufacturing process, which results in less waste. However, both are more eco-friendly than several other bedding materials.
You also find that both of these natural bed sheet options are pricier than traditional sheets, but natural fabrics are the only option if you desire quality sheets. Most of us spend about one-third of the day in our beds, so why compromise?
Which One Wins: Bamboo vs Eucalyptus Sheets?
If you compare bamboo sheets to eucalyptus sheets, you can’t really go wrong with either option. Both types of sheets are durable and soft, making them ideal for those who do not want to compromise on quality or comfort by making an environmentally-friendly choice. However, if we had to pick a winner in this matchup, it would be bamboo sheets.
Here is Why:
Bamboo sheets are the most comfortable and softest sheets you can buy. While bamboo is great at wicking moisture away from the skin, it’s also one of the softest fabrics available, making these sheets a superb choice for those who really want to feel their sheets when they fall asleep. Also, bamboo sheets are extremely durable and can last for several years.
Because eucalyptus sheets are relatively new to the bedding market, options are limited and you may not find the pattern or color you’re looking for. Due to its hydrophilic nature, eucalyptus is also susceptible to mildew, making it difficult to care for.
Bamboo is clearly the winner in this battle for the most environmentally-friendly bedding. With its incredibly soft fabric, durability, antibacterial, and moisture-wicking properties, you really can’t find a better option when looking for natural bedding made from sustainably-sourced fabric.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Bamboo or Eucalyptus Bedding Be Machine Washed and Dried?
Sheets made of both materials are quite durable, but should still be handled with care. Both can be machine washed on the delicate cycle with cold or lukewarm water, but be sure to check the label for specific washing instructions. Avoid hot water as it can damage the natural fibers. Use low heat settings when drying your sheets, as high temperatures can cause them to shrink a bit.
Are Bamboo and Eucalyptus Sheets Environmentally Friendly?
Bamboo and eucalyptus are environmentally friendly. Bamboo is a natural product made from the fibers of the bamboo plant, while eucalyptus is also natural but the fibers are actually made from recycled pulp. Both materials are biodegradable and renewable raw materials.
How are Eucalyptus and Bamboo Sheets Different from Cotton?
Cotton is among the most popular fabrics for bedding. Many people like cotton because it is comfortable and durable. At the same time, it is not very environmentally friendly bedding, since cotton plants consume a lot of water.
More and more people are becoming aware of the dangers that harmful chemicals can pose to their health. Among these harsh chemicals is formaldehyde, which is used in the manufacturing process of many types of fabrics, such as polyester and cotton.
Many consumers prefer to sleep on bamboo sheets because they are softer and have better moisture-wicking abilities than cotton sheets. Bamboo and eucalyptus fabrics are also hypoallergenic, meaning they won’t irritate allergies like cotton.
How Long Do Eucalyptus or Bamboo Sheets Usually Last?
It really depends on the quality of the sheets and how you care for them. These types of sheets should last a while if you care for them, which means don’t over-tumble dry and wash on low.
Bamboo vs Eucalyptus Sheets - Which is Better for You?
Bamboo Sheets are a sustainable, eco-friendly, and luxurious bedding option that will have you sleeping soundly through the night. Though they may have a higher initial cost than eucalyptus sheets, bamboo sheets will last longer and feel softer over time - making them a more affordable option in the long run.
If you’re looking for the best possible material for your bed sheets, bamboo is the way to go. At Bamboo Bed, we have a wide range of bamboo bed sheets to choose from. Visit our website today to find the perfect set of sheets for your needs.
