At a glance, bamboo seems like a very good choice for a sustainable crop, it’s fast-growing, requires no fertilizers and self-regenerates from its own roots. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is being grown sustainably. The majority of bamboo is being grown in China and there is no information on how intensively bamboo is being harvested. Just because bamboo does not need pesticides there is no guarantee that they are not being used to maximize outputs.
There are a few ways to turn bamboo into fabric. The first process involves combing out the bamboo fibers and spinning them into thread, much like how hemp is made into thread. This method creates a linen-type fabric that is processed as bast. This process is labor-intensive and expensive and the result is not suitable for soft, stretchy clothing or sleepwear for babies and children.
The second and more popular method is the process that is used to make the soft and silky baby clothing and sleepwear that so many brands sell today. Making bamboo viscose is a highly intensive chemical process, similar to the process used to turn wood chips into rayon. In this process, the bamboo is dissolved in a strong solvent which makes a thick viscous solution that is then forced through fine holes, called a spinnerette. Forcing the solution through the spinnerette forms the strands of fiber but it’s a chemical bath of sulfuric acid that hardens the strands and when washed and bleached, these strands become rayon fabric. This process is called hydrolysis alkalization or solution spinning because the fiber is “spun” in a chemical solution. The solvent used for this process is carbon disulfide, a toxic chemical that is a known human reproductive hazard. It can endanger factory workers and pollute the environment via air emissions and wastewater. The recovery of this solvent in most viscose factories is around 50%, which means the other half goes into the environment.
Organic cotton doesn’t require industrial processing to convert it to fabric and for that reason, it reigns supreme over bamboo. The only downside to organic cotton is that it is quite difficult to grow without chemicals. As a result, the process for organic growing is more labor-intensive than conventional methods (using synthetic pesticides and fertilizers). This is why organic cotton is a bit pricer than both conventional cotton and rayon made with bamboo products.
When it comes to babies and children, organic cotton is still the safest choice. Comfortable, breathable and environmentally-friendly, cotton has held up to the test of time. It is for these reasons that we at CastleWare Baby have chosen to use pure organic cotton for all of our pajamas, one piece footsie pajamas, wearable blankets for walkers and sleeper bags. All of our fabrics (baby rib knit, fleece and velour) are made in the US from certified 100% organic cotton yarn. All of our fabrics are preshrunk using only hot water so you don’t have to worry about how the garment will fit after you take it out of the dryer or your child’s chemical exposure from the pajamas they wear to bed.
At CastleWare Baby our love for the earth is deeply connected to our passion for creating the cleanest sleep and play wear for your little person. And we make business decisions that center on both. We are committed to be a force for good, from supporting sustainable agriculture to producing our garments in the USA for a smaller footprint.
The Luxurious Choice of Bamboo Rayon It’s inherently organic and offers a silky smooth texture that is kind to baby’s sensitive skin, ensuring the little ones can roll, crawl, or toddle in comfort and style.
Baby items made of Organic Cotton
You may be wondering if purchasing organic cotton sleepwear is worth the added expense. The answer to that is yes, especially when the item is for a baby. Organic cotton fabrics are superior to conventionally grown cotton fabrics because they are grown without synthetic fertilizers, pesticides or fungicides. This produces healthier products for consumers while protecting our valuable ecosystems. Fabrics made from organic cotton are also more durable because the fibers have not been exposed to harsh synthetic chemicals which can break down natural fibers.
At a glance, bamboo seems like a very good choice for a sustainable crop, it’s fast-growing, requires no fertilizers and self-regenerates from its own roots. But that doesn’t necessarily mean that it is being grown sustainably. The majority of bamboo is being grown in China and there is no information on how intensively bamboo is being harvested. Just because bamboo does not need pesticides there is no guarantee that they are not being used to maximize outputs.
There are a few ways to turn bamboo into fabric. The first process involves combing out the bamboo fibers and spinning them into thread, much like how hemp is made into thread. This method creates a linen-type fabric that is processed as bast. This process is labor-intensive and expensive and the result is not suitable for soft, stretchy clothing or sleepwear for babies and children.
The second and more popular method is the process that is used to make the soft and silky baby clothing and sleepwear that so many brands sell today. Making bamboo viscose is a highly intensive chemical process, similar to the process used to turn wood chips into rayon. In this process, the bamboo is dissolved in a strong solvent which makes a thick viscous solution that is then forced through fine holes, called a spinnerette. Forcing the solution through the spinnerette forms the strands of fiber but it’s a chemical bath of sulfuric acid that hardens the strands and when washed and bleached, these strands become rayon fabric. This process is called hydrolysis alkalization or solution spinning because the fiber is “spun” in a chemical solution. The solvent used for this process is carbon disulfide, a toxic chemical that is a known human reproductive hazard. It can endanger factory workers and pollute the environment via air emissions and wastewater. The recovery of this solvent in most viscose factories is around 50%, which means the other half goes into the environment.
Organic cotton doesn’t require industrial processing to convert it to fabric and for that reason, it reigns supreme over bamboo. The only downside to organic cotton is that it is quite difficult to grow without chemicals. As a result, the process for organic growing is more labor-intensive than conventional methods (using synthetic pesticides and fertilizers). This is why organic cotton is a bit pricer than both conventional cotton and rayon made with bamboo products.
When it comes to babies and children, organic cotton is still the safest choice. Comfortable, breathable and environmentally-friendly, cotton has held up to the test of time. It is for these reasons that we at CastleWare Baby have chosen to use pure organic cotton for all of our pajamas, one piece footsie pajamas, wearable blankets for walkers and sleeper bags. All of our fabrics (baby rib knit, fleece and velour) are made in the US from certified 100% organic cotton yarn. All of our fabrics are preshrunk using only hot water so you don’t have to worry about how the garment will fit after you take it out of the dryer or your child’s chemical exposure from the pajamas they wear to bed.
At CastleWare Baby our love for the earth is deeply connected to our passion for creating the cleanest sleep and play wear for your little person. And we make business decisions that center on both. We are committed to be a force for good, from supporting sustainable agriculture to producing our garments in the USA for a smaller footprint.
Baby items made of Bamboo
Supporters of baby items made of bamboo will rave about the qualities, which include the fact that bamboo fabric is extremely soft and comparable to fabrics such as cashmere. Regenerated Bamboo fiber is touted for its antimicrobial properties. However, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim. Bamboo fabric is also breathable and said to be more absorbent and stronger than cotton.
WHAT IS RAYON? | S1:E13 | Fibers and Fabrics | Beate Myburgh
FAQ
Is rayon fabric safe for babies?
What is the best fabric to use for baby clothes?
What are 4 things to avoid with newborn clothing?
Is 100% polyester safe for babies?
Is rayon fiber safe for babies?
Yes, it’s safe for babies, however I don’t recommend pure rayon for baby items as it stretches too much. An animal or natural fiber blend would be better. Is Rayon Fiber Ethical & Eco-Friendly?
What is rayon fabric?
Rayon is a versatile fabric that is commonly used in the fashion industry. It is known for its softness, drapability, and ability to mimic the look and feel of natural fibers like silk, cotton, and linen. Rayon is made from cellulose fibers derived from wood pulp or other plant-based materials.
Is rayon fabric safe?
Most people are under the misconception that since rayon is manufactured using wood pulp, it is a safe and natural fabric. To tell you the truth, this fabric is no less harmful as it also has to go through a chemical treatment which can cause various health hazards such as a headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle pain and chest pain. #4. Acrylic
Is Rayon good for clothes?
Sometimes, it’s good for clothes because it drapes well, and it’s comfortable to wear. However it loses its shape easily and is hard to block, so don’t make clothes of pure rayon, always use a blend. Is Rayon Fiber Good For Winter?