Bamboo Yourself

So you already know that bamboo is a sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to wood. But do you know the benefits of wearing bamboo? If not, then read on!

• Bamboo is anti-bacterial, so clothing made from this plant is perfect to wear when exercising and as under garments (bamboo underwear and bras are sublime!).


• Bamboo is also naturally very absorptive, thus bamboo fabrics quickly absorb and evaporate sweat and moisture. This makes bamboo great for towels, exercise clothing and summer wear.


• Bamboo provides UV protection, so get out there on those sunny days. Consider buying bamboo blinds and curtains.


• In contrast with the coarse grass, bamboo fabrics are soft and silky to the touch, and since it's a natural fiber it's breathable against your skin. Many people even find it cooler than cotton.


• Bamboo is 100% biodegradable! This means when you throw out your bamboo clothing you can rest easy knowing you won't be polluting the earth during decomposition.

And don't forget about bamboo soap ... yes soap! I have just recently discovered bamboo soap myself and I haven't looked back since. I have very sensitive skin and have been known to break out when using soaps that are supposedly "all natural" from Lush or similar stores. But bamboo soap is very gentle. It's naturally mineral and nutrient rich, and since the bamboo plant is anti-bacterial the soap freshens my skin without any harsh chemicals (no thank you sodium laureth sulfate).

If you can get your hands on bamboo charcoal, it's great to use around the house for freshening and removing odours. Put some in the fridge and it will absorb food odours. Put a few pieces behind the toilet to remove bathroom odours (nice for those days when you over-do-it on the green juice). Ask your local health food store to order some food grade bamboo charcoal and use it to purify water. I haven't tried the water purification yet, but I've heard it's good for that too.

Happy bamboo'ing!