Bamboo sheets are popular for their hypoallergenic and moisture-wicking properties. They’re a dream to sleep on!
These eco-friendly sheets are made from natural bamboo fibres, which give them a luxuriously soft and smooth texture.
However, bamboo sheets need gentle care to stay that way, as they can be quite delicate.
If you treat them right, bamboo sheets are surprisingly durable and can last many years.
We put together this guide on how to wash bamboo sheets properly — so they stay fresh and oh-so-comfy!
Pre-Treating Stains | Washing | Drying | Whitening | Maintenance
Before Washing Bamboo Sheets
Before washing, check the care label for instructions on how to clean bamboo sheets correctly.
Washing directions may vary by brand. Some bamboo sheets can also be more delicate than others.
It’s best to wash bamboo bedding separately. If that’s not possible, wash only with other bamboo fabrics in similar colours.
This helps prevent colour transfer, damage, and pilling — tiny balls forming on the fabric.
Avoid harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach, which can weaken and deform the bamboo fibres.
Skip dryer sheets and fabric softeners too, as these can leave a residue.
Lastly, always pre-treat stains before washing bed sheets to keep them looking pristine!
Pre-Treating Stains on Bamboo Sheets
Bamboo sheets are usually more resistant to stains than other fabrics.
While highly absorbent, bamboo fabrics dry quickly so they don’t trap moisture like sweat.
That said, bamboo sheets can still get stained — whether from a small cut, a potty accident, or those late-night snacks in bed!
So, how to get stains out of bamboo sheets?
The key is to tackle stains while they’re fresh and easier to lift.
Always start with cold water. Hot water can set many types of stains and make them harder to remove.
Identify what caused the mess, then use gentle cleaning agents that won’t damage or discolour your bamboo linen.
Blood stains
How to get blood out of bamboo sheets? Treat the stain quickly with cold saltwater.
First, turn the sheet inside out and hold it under cold running water. This helps wash out the blood before it sets.
Mix 1 tablespoon of salt per cup of cold water in a basin. Soak the stained area of the bamboo sheet for 10–15 minutes.
Check if the stain has lifted, then rinse thoroughly with cold running water.
Other suitable options to get blood out of sheets include baking soda and 3% hydrogen peroxide.
Food and drink stains
Baking soda is a mild but effective treatment for food and drink stains on bamboo bed sheets!
Clear away any solid food bits from the sheet. Then, run cold water through the back of the fabric to flush out the stain.
Apply a thick baking soda paste to the stain and let it sit for 10–15 minutes.
Gently scrub the stain with a soft cloth, then rinse off all baking soda with cold running water.
If the stain lingers, repeat the steps until it’s completely gone.
Makeup stains
To tackle makeup stains on bamboo bed sheets, use dish soap!
Start by brushing off any loose makeup from the sheet. Then, apply a small amount of dish soap to the stain. Let it sit for 15–30 minutes.
Gently scrub with a soft cloth or rub the fabric against itself to loosen the stain.
Once the makeup stain is gone, rinse with cold water.
Another option is to dab the stain with a cotton pad soaked in micellar water. It’s effective for makeup stains and safe for bamboo sheets!
Sweat stains
Not sure how to get sweat stains out of bamboo sheets? White vinegar can help!
Mix 1 part white vinegar and 4 parts cold water. Soak the stained area of the sheet for 15–20 minutes.
For stubborn sweat stains, you can soak longer. Afterwards, rinse thoroughly with cold water to remove any residue.
If vinegar doesn’t work, try soaking the sheet in diluted oxygen bleach.
Urine stains
White vinegar can also work on urine stains on bamboo sheets.
Just soak the stained area in a solution of 1 part white vinegar and 4 parts cold water.
Another option is mild laundry detergent. Mix some laundry soap and cold water in a basin, then soak the affected area for 15–20 minutes.
After treating the stain, wash the sheet thoroughly with cold water.
If any urine smell lingers, add half a cup of baking soda to the wash cycle!
How to Wash Bamboo Bed Sheets
You can wash your bamboo sheets in a washing machine. Use a mild detergent, cool water (lower than 30ºC), and a gentle wash cycle.
A liquid detergent formulated for natural fabrics is best for bamboo sheets. Another option is a detergent made for sensitive skin or babies’ clothing.
Moreover, using cold water helps prevent shrinkage caused by heat. A gentle cycle also maintains the shape of the sheets.
And remember: always wash new bamboo bedding before use!
Some manufacturers treat bed linens with chemicals and starches to achieve a crisp, wrinkle-free look.
If you’re unsure of how to wash bamboo sheets for the first time, don’t worry — it’s just like their regular care instructions.
Run a cool, gentle cycle with mild detergent to ensure your new bamboo sheets are clean and safe to use!
How to Dry Bamboo Sheets
To dry newly-washed bamboo sheets, you have two options: air drying or tumble drying in low heat.
Air drying bamboo sheets
Air drying bamboo sheets preserves the quality of the fabric and prevents wrinkles.
To air dry bamboo bed sheets, hang them on a line in a shaded area.
Keep coloured linens out of direct sunlight to avoid fading and damaging the soft fibres.
Be sure the space is well-ventilated. For faster drying, try pointing a fan toward the sheets to help circulate air.
Tumble drying bamboo sheets
You can put bamboo sheets in the dryer, but be sure to use the lowest heat setting!
High heat can warp the bamboo fibres and cause them to become brittle. This can ruin the shape and texture of the sheets.
Tumble dry bamboo sheets for about 10 minutes, and take them out while they’re still slightly damp.
Finish by air drying the sheets in a shaded area.
How to Whiten Bamboo Sheets
To whiten bamboo sheets, try baking soda, white vinegar, or oxygen bleach.
The gentlest method is baking soda. You can add half a cup to the wash cycle to help lift dirt and enhance the cleaning power of detergent.
White vinegar is another mild option for whitening bamboo sheets.
Add half a cup of vinegar to the final rinse to brighten the fabric and lift any residue from the detergent.
For stronger whitening power, add oxygen bleach to the wash cycle. However, be cautious, as improper use can weaken bamboo fibres.
Always follow the dilution instructions on the product label to prevent damage.
After washing, hang bamboo bed sheets under direct sunlight for 10–15 minutes.
Sunlight has a natural bleaching effect, but too much heat can damage bamboo fabrics.
Always wash white bamboo sheets separately to preserve their colour!
Tips to Maintain Bamboo Sheets
Besides gentle washing and drying, be mindful of how often you wash your sheets.
Changing and washing bed sheets weekly prevents bacterial growth, dust mites, and dirt build-up.
If your laundry piles up faster than you can keep up, hand it off to professional house cleaners.
They’ll do your laundry so you can enjoy fresh sheets — and a spotless home — without the hassle!
After washing, fold the sheets neatly and keep them in a cool, dry place. You can also place them in a breathable fabric bag to keep dust out.
Bamboo sheets are quite resistant to wrinkling. But if you want to iron them, do so while they’re slightly damp.
When ironing bamboo sheets, use the lowest heat setting or the ‘silk’ option if available. Work on the reverse side to prevent damage.
FAQs on Washing Bamboo Sheets
Learn more about how to wash and care for your bamboo bed sheets!
Should you hand wash bamboo sheets?
Hand washing is usually not necessary for bamboo sheets unless the care label recommends it or you’re treating specific stains.
Washing bamboo bed sheets on a gentle cycle is generally safe.
If you prefer to hand wash, fill your bathtub with cold water and add mild detergent. Soak the sheets for 10–15 minutes.
Afterwards, gently rub the fabric against itself to lift dirt. Then, rinse thoroughly to remove soap residue.
To dry, lightly press out excess water without twisting or wringing the fabric vigorously. Then air dry the bamboo sheets in a shaded area.
Can you wash bamboo sheets at 40ºC?
No, it’s best to avoid warm water when washing bamboo sheets and keep the temperature below 30ºC.
However, always check if the care label allows it.
Otherwise, washing at 40ºC or higher can cause bamboo sheets to pill quickly.
If you need to sanitise your bamboo sheets, add oxygen bleach to the wash cycle. Just be sure to follow the dilution instructions on the product label.
Can you wash bamboo sheets with other fabrics?
No, it’s best to wash bamboo sheets separately or with similar fabrics in matching colours. This ensures they get the correct, gentle care.
Zippers and buttons can snag on the fabric, while lint from other items can cling to the sheets.
How long do bamboo sheets last?
With proper care, bamboo sheets can last 10–15 years or even longer!
However, their lifespan depends on how well you care for them, so gentle washing is a must.
What is the downside to bamboo sheets?
Bamboo bed sheets tend to be pricier than regular cotton ones.
Their delicate fibres also require gentle care, which may add a few extra steps to your laundry routine.
