Bath & Laundry

Bamboo Vs Cotton Towels: Which Should You Buy?

bamboo vs cotton towels side by side
At a Glance

Torn between cotton and bamboo towels? Both are good choices but have clear distinctions you need to know before making a purchase. 

Quick Tips
  • Weight whether you value softness and sustainability vs durability and affordability more.
  • If you want an odour-free towel that stays fresh for long, opt for ones with antibacterial properties.
girl in green bamboo towel
Featuring Weavve’s Bamboo Fibre Bath Towel In Green

It’s no secret that having a soothing towel can add to the refreshing feeling you get after a bath. But when it comes to choosing the perfect one, the sheer number of options available can be overwhelming. With varying sizes, shapes, and features, it can be challenging to determine which material suits your needs best. If you are seeking high-quality towels that surpass regular ones in terms of specific features, two options stand out: bamboo fibres and combed cotton fibres.

In this article, we aim to demystify the choice between these two widely acclaimed materials. We will delve into the upsides and downsides of bamboo vs cotton towels, providing a comprehensive comparison to help you decide which one offers superior value for your money.

Cotton Towel Vs Bamboo Fibre Towels: The Differences

Bamboo Vs Cotton Towels
Featuring Weavve’s
Towels

Bamboo towels and cotton towels have their own unique attributes. From the fibres they are made of to their texture, absorbency, antibacterial properties, sustainability, and even price, they exhibit notable distinctions. 

In this section, we will provide a comprehensive comparison between them. By delving into each aspect, you will be able to gain a deeper understanding of these bath and home essentials.

Fibre

Bamboo towels, known for their eco-friendly nature, are crafted from natural fibres. These fibres possess remarkable strength, allowing for durable and long-lasting fabrics. Additionally, they have natural antimicrobial properties, making them resistant to bacteria and odours.

Bamboo trees
Image By Martin Péchy From Pexels

On the other hand, cotton has long been the traditional choice for its softness and absorbency. Its fibres create plush and cosy fabrics that are highly efficient at soaking up moisture. The soft and gentle texture provides a luxurious feel against the skin, enhancing the overall comfort and enjoyment of use.

Texture

Bamboo towels are renowned for their luxurious, velvety feel against the skin. This gentle and soothing sensation adds a touch of indulgence to your bathing routine, enveloping you in a cocoon of softness.

cotton towels white and greyFeaturing Weavve’s Cotton Bath Towels

Conversely, cotton is celebrated for its plush and comforting texture. The inherent softness of its fibres creates towels that offer a cosy and inviting embrace. With their fluffy and comforting feel, they provide a familiar and snuggly sensation that many individuals cherish.

Absorbency & Water Retention

Bamboo is highly regarded for its exceptional absorbency. The unique structure of its fibres enables the fabrics to swiftly capture and retain moisture. They efficiently draw water away from the skin, leaving you feeling dry and refreshed. Moreover, they possess excellent water retention properties, allowing them to hold a significant amount of moisture without feeling excessively wet or heavy.

mom wraps child in white towel
Image By Ketut Subiyanto From Pexels

Cotton also excels in absorbency due to the natural properties of its fibres. It quickly and effectively absorbs water from the body, providing a reliable means of drying off and leaving the skin comfortably dry.

Antibacterial Factor

Bamboo fibres contain a bio-agent called "bamboo kun," which exhibits antimicrobial and antibacterial qualities. This property helps to inhibit the growth of bacteria, fungi, and other microbes on the fabric's surface. In effect, you can veer away from unpleasant odours and maintain a fresher and more sanitary environment.

woman wrapped in silver-infused cotton towel
Featuring Weavve’s
Silver Infused Bath Towel

In contrast, ordinary cotton usually does not inherently possess the same level of antibacterial properties. While it does have moisture wicking properties that can discourage bacterial growth, it may be more prone to retaining moisture. It potentially becomes a breeding ground for bacteria if not adequately dried between uses.

However, you may opt for treated cotton towels infused with all-natural silver. This helps resist 99% of odour-causing bacteria, maintain a hygienic and fresher fabric.

Sustainability

Bamboo stands out as a sustainable choice, given its eco-friendly attributes. It is a rapidly renewable resource that requires minimal water, pesticides, or fertilisers to grow abundantly. Harvesting it leaves the plant intact, ensuring its continuous growth and reducing the need for replanting.

cream-coloured bamboo towel
Featuring Weavve’s
Bamboo Fibre Towel Bundles In Cream
 

Furthermore, the natural antimicrobial properties of the plant eliminate the necessity for chemical treatments during production. By opting for these types of products, you can contribute to water conservation, reduced chemical usage, and a lighter environmental footprint.

Cotton towels, on the other hand, present a more nuanced sustainability picture. Conventionally growing the plant may involve substantial water consumption and the use of pesticides and fertilisers, potentially harming ecosystems. However, choosing organic cotton towels mitigates these concerns. Produced without synthetic chemicals, they help promote soil health, minimise water pollution, and support the well-being of farmers and communities.

cotton plant
Image By Magda Ehlers From Pexels

To make a mindful decision, factors such as organic certifications, water usage, and overall environmental impact should be considered.

Hypoallergenic Properties

Bamboo is naturally hypoallergenic, so they’re more gentle to the skin. Meanwhile, some individuals may be allergic to cotton fibres. They may experience skin irritation, itchiness, or allergic reactions. Choose alternative
materials to avoid discomfort.

woman looking at the mirror while touching her face
Image By Sora Shimazaki From Pexels

Availability

As they are more popular and widely available, luxury cotton towels can often be found in hotels, spas, and in almost every household. However, bamboo also provides hotel-quality towels and can be perfect for everyday use at home. It might not be as common as the former though.

Price

Organic bamboo towels typically carry a slightly higher price tag. This discrepancy can be attributed to various factors, including the production process and the availability of the raw material. The manufacturing methods involved in transforming fibres into fabrics often involve additional steps, contributing to slightly higher production costs. Furthermore, the limited cultivation can affect its availability and potentially drive up its price.

rolled bath towels
Image By Dom J From Pexels

In contrast, cotton towels exhibit a wider price range, influenced by factors such as quality, thread count, and brand. Being widely cultivated and versatile material, they offer a diverse array of options available at different price points. This makes them accommodate various budget considerations.

When assessing the price, it is crucial to consider the overall value provided by the material. While luxury bamboo towels may entail a slightly higher cost, they often deliver desirable qualities such as durability, softness, and eco-friendly attributes. Conversely, cotton offers a range of choices across different price ranges, allowing for greater flexibility in meeting budgetary constraints.

Which One Is Better For You?

If you value eco-friendly options and enjoy the softness of your bath products, bamboo is a great choice. It offers a plush feel, excellent absorbency, and is made from sustainable materials. 

On the other hand, if durability and affordability are more important to you, cotton is a reliable option. Regardless of variant - whether pima cotton towels, organic cotton bath towels, Supima cotton towels, or even regular ones - they are known for its softness, absorbency, strength, wide availability, and reasonable prices.

Consider your preferences to determine which one aligns better with your requirements.

Bamboo Towels Vs Cotton Towels: A Summary

Bamboo Towels

Cotton Towels

Texture

Excel in providing a plush and luxurious feel against the skin

Provide a soft and gentle texture

Absorbency/
Water Retention

Exhibit exceptional absorbency, efficiently drawing moisture away from the body and leaving a refreshing feeling

Highly absorbent, swiftly soaking up water to effectively dry off

Antibacterial Factor

Have natural antimicrobial properties, inhibiting bacterial growth and reducing the risk of odours

Lack inherent antibacterial properties, but regular washing and proper care practices can maintain cleanliness and hygiene

Sustainability

Offer a more sustainable choice, as the plant is a renewable resource that requires minimal water, pesticides, and fertilisers for growth

Varies depending on whether the fibres are conventionally grown or made from organic ones, which can minimise environmental impact and promote healthier farming practices

Price

Tend to be slightly pricier, reflecting the additional manufacturing steps and the availability of the raw material

Offer a wide range of options at different price points, catering to various budgets while still delivering high quality and comfort.

Cons

The delicate nature of the fibres can make them more prone to fraying or damage over time, especially with frequent use and washing

Some individuals may be allergic to cotton fibres

Where To Buy Bamboo & Cotton Towels In Singapore

Weavve Home bamboo towel
Featuring Weavve’s
Bamboo Fibre Bath Towel In Green

You can find several options online. Here at Weavve Home, we offer bath essentials designed to help deliver luxurious comfort to your home. Our cotton and bamboo towels in Singapore are loved for their ultra softness and quality. 

Shop our exceptional bath towels in Singapore for the most luxurious bath experience!

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Silver Infused Towel Bundle
best seller
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Silver Infused Towel Bundle
$95.00

1 Bath Towel, 1 Hand Towel and 1 Face Towel

Bamboo Fibre Towel Bundle
$69.00

1 Bath Towel, 1 Hand Towel and 1 Face Towel