So, you've bought your first set of new bamboo sheets and you've fallen in love with them. Not only are they incredibly soft to the touch and thermo-regulating, but they're environmentally friendly, which means you can feel good about using them. You're getting the best sleep of your life and you're not going back to cotton sheets.

But, as we've learned, even new bed sheets need to be cleaned around once a week. But now you're wondering if the sheets are going to shrink in the washer or dryer? Well, you've come to the right place for the answers.

Cut To The Chase

The quick answer to the question of 'do bamboo sheets shrink?' is yes. Bamboo sheets do have a higher chance of shrinking in the wash than other traditional cotton sheets. In fact, bamboo fibers and bamboo fabric in general shrink. This means bamboo towels, pillowcases, and other bamboo products often shrink slightly in the wash.

That being said, there are a few things you can do to avoid shrinking when you wash and dry bamboo sheets.

Washing & Drying Your Bamboo Bedding

While washing your bed sheets might seem like a fairly simple task, there are actually quite a few things to take into consideration. Different fabrics work best with different temperatures. Different cycles are recommended for different materials. Some fabrics require a pre-soak. What about stains? Can they be washed with other clothing? Can I use bleach and cleaning products?

Look At The Care Tag

All of these different variables have to be understood and done right in order to wash and dry your bamboo sheets properly. This is why looking at the proper care instructions on the tag is an important step when it comes to washing any kind of bedding or fabric.

Hot Or Cold?

Before you even throw your sheets in the washing machine, we recommend that you let them soak in lukewarm water. This allows for a better clean and can help with stain removal.

Bamboo sheets should be washed in cold water and dried on a low heat setting. Too much heat, especially when drying, can cause the bamboo fabric to shrink even more than it will naturally. Even though most common materials for bedding can withstand high temperatures and warm water, bamboo material should use cool water. Cold water is also better for the environment, so you can feel good about your footprint when you wash bamboo sheets.

What About Fabric Softener & Detergent?

When you wash your bamboo bedding, you should stick to a mild detergent. Avoid harsh detergents and fabric softeners. Mother nature already makes the bamboo fabric quite soft, so it doesn't need the extra boost that fabric softeners provide.

It's also recommended that you avoid bleach, enzyme cleaner, hydrogen peroxide, and dryer sheets can also leave a residue on your new sheets which can make them less breathable. While these products can be helpful when removing things like blood stains and sweat stains, they aren't recommended for regular use.

What Cycle Should I Use?

There are many different cycles on different washing machines. But, when it comes to washing material made with bamboo fibres, you will want to stick to a gentle cycle on your washing machine. This helps keep your bamboo sheets looking and feeling their best. With natural fabric and natural materials, a heavier cycle can take away some of its softness and moisture-wicking properties.

Can I Air Dry?

When your sheets are all clean and free from stains, it's time to dry. Like sheets made with cotton material, you can toss them in the dryer or you can hang them on a clothing line. Letting them dry naturally outside is a great way to save on energy and still get a crisp finish. It can also help prevent more shrinkage.

To get cleaner and crisper lines after they have dried, run an iron on a low-temperature setting over the sheets. Then, the sheets are ready to go back on your mattress or pillows and ready for you to sleep on.

How Should I Store My Sheets?

Bamboo bed sheets last longer when you store them properly. You can store your bamboo sheets in a cool, dry place that is out of direct sunlight. You will want to avoid storing your new bedding in plastic or cardboard containers as they can cause the sheets to yellow or become damaged.

Sleep Soundly

Bamboo bed sheets and pillowcases are a great choice when it comes to choosing your bedding. SnoozyMonk's bamboo bedding is made with rayon fibers and is known to be softer than other fabrics. They come pre-enlarged to account for any shrinkage authentic bamboo rayon fabric goes through. The breathable, comfortable, hypo-allergenic, and moisture-wicking sheets can help you get the best rest each and every night. Whether you're a heavy or light sleeper, you'll find that bamboo sheets make sleeping easy.