Why Bamboo Textiles?
In 2007, I came across this incredible textile and knew the unique properties of bamboo had to be used to create apparel for babies. Since that time KicKee has grown into a lifestyle brand with apparel, blankets and accessories for all members of the family! Although we use many types of fabric from jersey, to fleece, to quilted, one thing remains consistent – we always choose bamboo in the creation of all of our textiles. I'll tell you a little more about benefits of bamboo and why I chose it not only for our business but for for my family as well.
Exceptional Softness
One of the most notable features of textiles made from bamboo are their exceptional softness. Bamboo fibers are naturally smooth and round, which in turn creates a luxuriously soft fabric that feels gentle against the skin. When considering textiles with babies in mind, I was astounded by the silky smooth texture of the bamboo pulp. It is soft and fluffy and is best described as a silky cloud. This inherent softness makes bamboo textiles an excellent choice for apparel, especially for items that come into direct contact with the skin. Not only babies, but many adults have sensitive skin, and bamboo fabric is so delicate that it is often used by people with allergies and other skin conditions.
Sustainability of Bamboo
Bamboo is a sustainable grass, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional materials. Unlike cotton, which requires large amounts of water, and replanting, bamboo grows rapidly and thrives without the need for pesticides. It can reach maturity in just a few months and can be harvested sustainably, allowing for continuous growth and minimal environmental impact. Why continuous growth? Bamboo is a grass, and has a natural ability to regenerate, reducing the need for replanting. As anyone who has planted bamboo in their yard can tell you, once it begins growing, it doesn't stop! In this case, that works to our advantage.
Our raw material is made by Tanboocel and is grown on farms rather than harvested from naturally occurring bamboo forests. Tanboocel emphasizes sustainability in its production process just like KicKee does. It adheres to eco-friendly manufacturing standards, including a closed-loop process for managing chemicals, which I have personally seen myself. They have an incredible water treatment facility on site and the final result prior to any water release is a pond on site teeming with fish and turtles. They also have certifications like STeP by OEKO-TEX® and FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council), verifying responsible sourcing and safety. For more information about our specific production process, please see our FAQs.
Antimicrobial Properties
Another significant advantage in the natural antimicrobial properties of the bamboo itself. Bamboo fibers contain a substance called bamboo kun, which helps inhibit the growth of bacteria and fungi. This built-in feature makes bamboo apparel resistant to odors, keeps garments fresher for longer periods and makes it less likely to harbor harmful bacteria and mold. This antimicrobial quality is particularly beneficial for active people as it helps maintain hygiene and comfort even during intense physical activities. Whether it is the playground or playing sports our children are certainly active!
Moisture-Wicking Properties
Babies are very sensitive to temperature changes and sweat easily, making these antimicrobial properties important, but perhaps equally important is keeping their delicate skin dry. Textiles made from bamboo have excellent moisture-wicking abilities, which enhances their performance and comfort, especially for those with sensitive skin. The structure of bamboo fibers allows them to absorb and evaporate moisture efficiently, helping to keep the skin dry, regulate body temperature, and prevent the buildup of sweat. Staying comfortable and cool allows our children to focus on what matters and not what they are wearing.
KicKee and Textiles from Bamboo
At KicKee we have embraced textiles from bamboo since our establishment in 2007 to create high-quality, comfortable clothing that we can stand behind. Our commitment to quality and practicality in all of the styles we create is only enhanced by our choice of textile which aligns with our dedication to providing environmentally friendly and skin-friendly options for families. We hope you love it as much as we do!
For more information about the science and engineering of bamboo fiber, please refer to this article.
For more information about Bamboo based fabrics in the apparel industry please refer to this article.
