When it comes to selecting the perfect bedsheets for your family or yourself, it can be quite a dilemma. The struggle of deciding which bed sheets to buy can be tedious, as considerations such as thread count, weave techniques and design vie for attention. However, the key factor that tips the scale is the type of material and fabric, which directly impacts your comfort, durability and overall sleep quality.
With an extensive range of fabrics - Tencel, Bamboo and Organic Cotton, what are their differences?
A quick overview of topics
- What is Tencel?
- What is Bamboo?
- What is Organic Cotton?
- Tencel vs Bamboo vs Organic Cotton: Which is Better?
What is Tencel?
Tencel, typically known as eucalyptus lyocell, is actually a brand name trademarked by Lenzing Fibers. Well known for its soft, silky, smooth and cool feel, tencel sheets are one of the materials frequently used in Singapore’s bedding and clothes. They are considered eco-friendly as they are regenerated from natural fibre made from wood pulp.
One notable factor of tencel is that it does not utilise any harmful chemical solvents that is usually found in the production of normal viscoses such as bamboo. With its hypoallergenic properties, tencel sheets are suitable for sensitive skin. They are typically durable if cared for properly. Due to its delicate nature however, tencel sheets are often recommended to be only washed using lower temperatures. It might also be too clingy on the skin for some people who might prefer a more structured feel for their bedsheets.
What is Bamboo?
Bamboo sheets are deemed sustainable and eco-friendly due to bamboo’s self-regenerating nature and minimal need for irrigation and cultivation efforts. You might be wondering how such a sturdy stalk of bamboo can turn into silky sheets. It is important to note that bamboo sheets are typically not made directly from bamboo fibers; instead, they are crafted from rayons, which are semi-synthetic fibers obtained from bamboo pulp.
The process involves chemically converting bamboo pulp into a semi-synthetic fiber. While bamboo is the raw material, the production process for rayon can be chemically intensive and may have environmental impacts if not managed properly. Hence it is not quite right to assume that bamboo fabric is eco-friendly or sustainable.
What is Organic Cotton?
Cotton, a naturally soft and fluffy fiber cultivated from cotton plants, is one of the most widely used material for bed sheets. Compared to conventional cotton, organic cotton are grown from non-genetically modified (GMO) seeds, and cultivated without the use of toxic pesticides and chemicals. This makes it a far more sustainable and healthier choice for the farmers, environment and you.
Organic cotton is also well known for its durability, breathability and softness. When high quality long-staple organic cotton is used, the bed sheets will also get incredibly softer with every wash. Since organic cotton is free from free from synthetic pesticides and toxic chemicals, it is gentler on the skin and less likely to trigger skin allergies
At SOJAO, we specialise in crafting our bed sheets from long-staple organic cotton, certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The quality of cotton is often assessed based on its staple length, usually categorised as long or short-staple fibers. Long-staple cotton is favoured as they have minimal exposed fiber, which pills less, leading to a stronger, more durable and softer set of bed sheets. Short-staple cotton, on the other hand, tends to have more exposed fibres that are prone to bobbling and pilling over time.
How Organic Cotton are Processed:
It first starts with the quality of the soil in the land. Under the stringent criteria of GOTS, only land that is free from harmful chemicals, pesticides or genetically modified organisms for at least three years are allowed to be used. Farmers would then plant using non-GMO cotton seeds and utilise renewable resources such as rain-fed water to nourish their cotton plants. Crops would be maintained through organic farming, involving natural processes such as use of natural fertilisers and non-invasive farming methods, all while avoiding synthetic pesticides and chemicals. This ensures the soils remain healthy while improving the biodiversity of the environment.
Tencel vs Bamboo vs Organic Cotton: Which is Better?
Among the diverse options of sheets made from Tencel, Bamboo and Organic Cotton, which is better? Ultimately, the final verdict lies in your individual preferences and specific needs.
While each bed linen material has its own merits, organic cotton stands out as a superior choice if you are looking for sustainable, durable, and soft sheets. Organic cotton is grown in a way that's friendly to the environment. It is grown without using any harmful chemicals, synthetic pesticides or genetically modified seeds. Unlike conventional cotton, organic cotton does not rely on irrigation, making it sustainable and eco-friendly. Organic cotton is known for its high quality and reduced risk of allergic reactions. Its hypoallergenic properties makes our sheets a safer choice for those with allergies or skin disorders. Overall, organic cotton provides unparalleled comfort with its natural fibers which are soft, breathable and lightweight. Ensuring a luxurious and restful sleep that adds comfort to your well-being.
Sheets made with organic cotton are simple to wash and care for, with minimal maintenance. Take a look at our wash care guide. The best part about organic cotton is that every wash guarantees a softer feel. Plus, it's super easy to care for and long-lasting!
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