Cotton and bamboo - The fabrics to choose on a hot summer’s night
It is summer here in Australia and the temperature is starting to climb. Those hot, humid nights make it that much harder to get a good night’s sleep and there is only so many times you can turn over the pillow to sleep on the “cool” side.
Having the right fabrics for bedtime - your pyjamas and your sheets - makes an incredible difference.
COTTON
100% cotton is the classic choice for summer. Good quality cotton nightwear and bedding will soften with every wash - just like a favourite pair of jeans.
When it comes to bedding don’t be fooled by thinking that a higher thread count here means better quality. Thread count is measured by how many threads are in a square inch of fabric but different brands have different methods for counting the threads. This makes it a pretty unreliable measure.
Some brands will up the thread count by using shorter, stubbier threads. This gives a higher thread count but the bedding doesn’t feel as soft. Fabric with shorter threads is also prone to pilling - kind of like how split ends frizz up on humid day.
Instead of looking at thread count look for extra long staple cotton - commonly referred to as Egyptian cotton - in an open weave. Open weave cotton is more breathable. Just what you need for summer.
BAMBOO
Bamboo clothing and bedding is a new favourite. Bamboo’s hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties make it perfect for those sweaty summer nights (Make sure to look for organic bamboo that has not been chemically treated).
Bamboo is highly absorbent and will wick moisture away from your body. It is very breathable and will keep you cool in summer. It is great for people with sensitive skin.
DO I NEED TO CHOOSE?
You can have it all. The best choice is a combination of cotton and bamboo products that suit you.