Can You Use Fabric Softener on Bamboo Sheets?

There’s a reason we all love sliding into bamboo sheets at night for a well-rested and refreshing sleep. They’re unbelievably soft, breathable and smooth, delivering the perfect blend of comfort and luxury to your sleeping environment. 

To ensure continued ultimate comfort, it’s essential to know how to care for and maintain your bamboo bedding.

Whilst bamboo bedding is notoriously durable and long-lasting, they require specific care when washed to preserve the famed features you purchased them for.

Below we’ll run you through the ins and outs of how you can keep your bamboo sheets in perfect condition. Including whether or not you should be using fabric softener on your bamboo bedding. 

So, can you use fabric softener on bamboo sheets? Whilst you may be used to using fabric softener on other materials to keep them soft, fabric softener is not necessary for bamboo sheets. Bamboo sheets retain their softness even after a machine wash and will remain that way once they’re dry.

When considering whether you can use fabric softener on bamboo sheets, note that it will add a layer of film to your sheets and even discolour them. This is why you shouldn’t use fabric softener on bamboo bedding. Similarly, washer and dryer balls are not suitable for bamboo sheets as they will affect the quality of the linen and cause tearing of the fibres.

Bamboo sheets are known for being the softest material on the market for a good night’s sleep. 

However, it may be that you’ve just received your bamboo sheets and found them uncharacteristically stiff. No need to panic; quite often bamboo sheets can become firm during the packaging and delivery process.

Believe it or not, bamboo sheets naturally get softer over time. This is due to the long thread fibres that make up bamboo sheets in contrast to the typical rough thread fibres commonly found in other bedding materials. Gentle care for your bamboo sheets will ensure that they remain breathable, comfortable, and smooth for years to come.

Yes, the first thing you should do with your bamboo sheets is to put them through a gentle machine wash cycle before your first use. You should always look to wash your bamboo bedding in cold water (maximum 30 degrees) on a gentle cycle. Avoid using warm water when washing your bamboo sheets as this can result in ‘piling’, when groups of fibres can break and become tangled together in a tiny knot.

We recommend washing your bamboo sheets every 7-10 days during warmer months as we tend to sweat more in summer. It is only necessary to wash your bamboo sheets every 10-14 days in the cooler months.

Bamboo sheets can go in the dryer; however, a low heat and low tumble cycle must be used.

If possible, it is preferable to line dry your bamboo sheets as this will preserve the softness of the fibres, colour of the material and elasticity. Bamboo sheets hang very well – just a few hours outside in the sun will get rid of the post-wash wrinkles and keep them smooth and fresh, ready to give you the good night’s sleep you deserve.  

Stains can be treated with a mixture of 1-part vinegar to 4-part water. Apply the mixture to the stain and let it sit for a couple of hours.

Alternatively, you can use a detergent-like Oxiclean on the stain. This is the preferred stain remover as it is chlorine-free and colour safe. Chlorine-based bleach should be avoided as it will damage the fibres of your bamboo bedding. For more resistant stains, try using an enzyme-based stain remover.

Moreover, it is important to note that any products consisting of bleach will cause irreversible damage to your sheets.

When someone asks you, “can you use fabric softener on bamboo sheets”, let them know about the harm it will cause. Most fabric softeners contain harmful chemicals that will permanently damage the sheets and reduce their overall quality. Bamboo sheets will retain their natural softness after each wash and dry.

All bamboo sheets provided by Linenly come with clear instructions for wash and care. If you haven’t already, take a look at our extensive range of quality bamboo bedding products.

In summary, following this five-step routine when washing your bamboo sheets will keep them in perfect condition: 

1. Pre-wash your sheets before first use to soften them up. Where possible, wash the bamboo sheets separately from other items in the machine.
2. Use a mild or liquid biodegradable detergent
3. Select a cold wash (maximum 30 degrees) on a gentle tumble setting. Warm water will damage your sheets.
4. Line dry your bamboo sheets.
5. Lay your sheets on your bed to remove creases.

“Can you use fabric softener on bamboo sheets?” is a question we’re asked a lot. Hopefully now it is clear why you shouldn’t use fabric softener on bamboo sheets. 

Although bamboo sheets are naturally durable and long-lasting, a little bit of extra care and attention can further extend their longevity and prolong your bedding luxury. Linenly offers a wide range of bamboo bedding, manufactured under strict conditions to ensure no harmful chemicals or processes are involved. If you have any questions or queries, do not hesitate to contact us at Linenly.