Bamboo cotton blend yarn is a popular choice for crafters and knitters due to it’s softness, durability, and eco-friendly properties. However, when it comes to caring for your finished project, it's important to know the proper washing instructions. Fortunately, bamboo cotton blend yarn can be safely machine washed. It’s recommended to use a delicate cycle to preserve the yarn's quality and prevent any potential damage. If you don't have a delicate cycle option, washing it on a normal cycle is also possible, but be aware that the project may shrink by approximately 10%. This can actually be beneficial if your garment turned out to be slightly oversized, as it will help to achieve the desired fit.
Can Bamboo Yarn Be Machine Washed?
Bamboo yarn is a popular choice for eco-conscious crafters due to it’s sustainable nature and incredibly soft texture. One question that often arises when working with bamboo yarn is whether it can be safely machine washed.
This will help prevent any potential damage or fraying that might occur with a harsher washing cycle. Additionally, it’s important to use a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics to avoid any potential damage or fading.
However, if the project made with bamboo yarn is oversized or you desire a more snug fit, washing it on a normal cycle can be an option. This can be beneficial if your garment turned out to be a bit larger than expected, as it allows for some adjustment in size.
To ensure the longevity of your bamboo yarn projects, it’s also recommended to air dry them rather than using a dryer. This will help retain the softness and elasticity of the fibers, preventing any potential damage or warping that heat from the dryer might cause.
So go ahead and enjoy the convenience and sustainability of this incredible yarn type, knowing that it can handle your washing machine with ease.
Different Types of Projects That Can Be Made With Bamboo Yarn
- Coasters
- Bamboo baskets
- Plant hangers
- Wall hangings
- Bamboo rugs
- Bamboo curtains
- Table runners
- Knitted or crocheted clothing
- Bamboo bags
- Decorative lampshades
Now that we understand that bamboo cotton yarn can shrink significantly when exposed to hot water, it’s crucial to take precautions before starting a knitting project. By swatching and carefully washing and blocking the swatch according to the yarn’s care instructions, we can accurately approach our knitting project without encountering unexpected shrinkage issues.
Does Bamboo Cotton Yarn Shrink?
Bamboo cotton yarn is known for it’s softness, breathability, and eco-friendly properties. It’s a popular choice among knitters and crocheters for creating lightweight and comfortable garments. However, one important factor to consider when working with bamboo cotton yarn is it’s tendency to shrink when washed in hot water.
This is an important consideration, especially if you’re working on a project that involves precise measurements or a specific fit.
To avoid any potential mishaps, it’s highly recommended to conduct a swatch test before starting your knitting project. Take a small piece of yarn and knit a swatch using your desired stitch pattern and needle size. Once the swatch is complete, follow the care instructions on the yarn label and wash and block it accordingly.
If the swatch shrinks significantly or loses it’s shape, you may want to consider adjusting your needle size or changing your stitch pattern. On the other hand, if the swatch maintains it’s shape and size after washing, you can proceed with confidence in your project.
Therefore, it’s always prudent to read the care instructions provided by the manufacturer and follow them accordingly. Others may advise using a gentle cycle or placing the garment in a mesh laundry bag to protect it during washing.
By doing so, you can make informed decisions and ensure that your knitting project turns out just as you envisioned it.
Tips for Washing Bamboo Cotton Yarn Garments
- Separate light and dark-colored garments before washing
- Turn the garments inside out to protect the color and surface
- Use a gentle cycle or hand wash setting on your washing machine
- Choose a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics
- Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners as they can weaken the fibers
- Wash bamboo cotton garments in cold water to prevent shrinkage
- Avoid excessive agitation to protect the fabric’s softness
- After washing, reshape the garments and dry them flat or hang them to air dry
- Avoid direct sunlight when drying as it can fade the colors
- Iron bamboo cotton garments on a low heat setting, if necessary
Source: All About Knitting Bamboo Yarn: Everything You Need to Know
Conclusion
However, it’s important to take some precautions to preserve the quality and size of your project. While bamboo yarns are made from cellulose extracted from natural bamboo, the textiles labeled as "bamboo" are usually synthetic rayon. These fabrics can be safely washed in a washing machine using either a delicate or normal cycle. However, it’s worth noting that washing on a normal cycle may result in a shrinkage of about 10%. This can be advantageous if your garment turned out to be slightly larger than anticipated.