If you’re on the hunt for a comfortable set of sheets, you have probably come across eucalyptus sheets and bamboo sheets. They are two of the most popular types of sheets on the market, and they are quite similar.
If you’re just not sure which type of sheet is right for you, we’ve got you covered. Our eucalyptus vs. bamboo guide will explain how these sheets are made as well as their similarities and differences. Keep reading to find out what sheets are best for your needs.
What Are Eucalyptus Sheets?
Eucalyptus sheets are made from, you guessed it, eucalyptus. Eucalyptus is a fast-growing plant that is known for offering many health benefits. The oils taken from its leaves can help treat colds, wounds, and many other maladies.
The eucalyptus fibers found in eucalyptus sheets don’t come from these leaves but the actual wood. During the Lycoll process, the most common process for the creation of eucalyptus sheets, the eucalyptus wood pulp is spun with chemicals to create the fabric. While these chemicals can be harmful to the environment, many eucalyptus fabric producers employ a “closed-loop system.” This means the chemicals and water are used over and over again. This makes the process sustainable and less damaging to the environment.
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Now, not all eucalyptus sheets adhere to the highest ecological standards. Some brands will engage in “greenwashing” where they advertise their products as “green” when they are anything but. Make sure to do your research when shopping for eucalyptus sheets to make sure you are getting a high-quality, eco-friendly product. Sheets with Tencel fabric are usually a good place to start and make sure to keep an eye out for sheets that are Oeko-Tex® certified.
What Are Bamboo Sheets?
Like eucalyptus, bamboo is another sustainable material. Bamboo is another fast-growing plant that is used to create high-quality fabrics. It requires very little water to grow and is much more sustainable than cotton.
To create bamboo fabric, producers cut down the bamboo and treat it with chemicals like sodium hydroxide. This helps remove the bamboo fibers from the plant itself. After treating with a few more chemicals, the fibers can be woven into a bamboo fabric.
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While some bamboo fabrics are also made using a closed-loop system, this is not the case with many bamboo sheet brands. Their production process can waste great amounts of water and create heavy chemical runoff. Again, this is not always the case, so you should research prospective brands to find out exactly how they make their products. True eco-friendly brands will often advertise this heavily.
The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Eucalyptus Sheets
All of the standards and practices aside, what are eucalyptus sheets actually like? Well, first off, they are known for being silky. While eucalyptus is not a naturally soft material, the production process creates a fabric that is quite smooth. Real silk can be very expensive, so eucalyptus sheets (while not exactly cheap themselves) can be a more affordable alternative.
In addition, eucalyptus sheets are known for their breathability and cooling properties. Eucalyptus sheets allow for a good amount of airflow, and they are naturally moisture-wicking. This helps to actually draw heat away from the body while you sleep. Some sleepers have gone so far as to call them “cool to the touch.” Based on the many eucalyptus sheets we have reviewed, we can say this is often the case!
Most eucalyptus sheets are hypoallergenic and antimicrobial. They don’t trap allergens and are resistant to bacteria build-up. This makes them a great pick for people with allergies and sensitive skin.
Eucalyptus sheets are also extremely long-lasting. They are designed to stand up to many years of use, washing, and drying. This, of course, will vary product to product, so take care of your eucalyptus sheets, and they will last for years.
There’s a lot to love about eucalyptus sheets, but they do have their drawbacks. The main issue has to do with price. You get a lot for your money but, usually, eucalyptus sheets cost more than their cotton counterparts. Higher-end cotton sheets will cost more than lower-end eucalyptus sheets, but the eucalyptus sheets will generally cost you more.
The Benefits And Drawbacks Of Bamboo Sheets
Bamboo sheets have many of the same benefits as eucalyptus sheets. First off, they are extremely breathable and cooling. Like eucalyptus sheets, they allow for good airflow and also wick moisture away from the body. This can also help bamboo sheets keep their color for longer as they do not retain as much moisture as other sheets.
Bamboo is a very durable material and should last for many years. Bamboo fibers are longer than other fibers, so they will stand up to more use. Like eucalyptus sheets, they are a great long-term investment. One of our favorites is the Cozy Earth Bamboo sheets.
Allergy sufferers and those who want sheets that stay clean will also like bamboo sheets. They are hypoallergenic and antibacterial, and should not be exacerbating your allergies or trapping unwanted bacteria.
At the same time, bamboo sheets usually cost more than cotton and other types of sheets. They are comparably priced to eucalyptus sheets and, while definitely worth the money, cost a bit more up front.
Bamboo sheets are also known for being somewhat wrinkly. An iron can help solve this issue but, if you’re a stickler for wrinkle-free sheets, and you want something you can take right out of the dryer and throw on your bed, bamboo sheets might not be the best bet.
The main drawback associated with bamboo sheets is their negative environmental impact. Again, this is not the case with all bamboo sheets but, based on our research, bamboo fabric production is often worse for the environment. You might have to do more research to make sure your bamboo sheets are actually eco-friendly. Those that are eco-friendly often cost more than eucalyptus sheets. If you want to know more, make sure to read our bamboo sheet buying guide.
Should You Get Eucalyptus Or Bamboo Sheets?
So, which type of sheet should you get? We’ve got it broken down for you right here.
Who Should Get Eucalyptus Sheets?
- Those who want sheets that are cool to the touch
- Shoppers in search of a more eco-friendly option
- Those who want less-wrinkly sheets
Who Should Get Bamboo Sheets
- Those who are willing to spend more on eco-friendly sheets
- Hot sleepers who want superior moisture-wicking.
FAQs
Are bamboo or eucalyptus sheets cooler?
Bamboo and eucalyptus sheets are both cool-sleeping fabrics. They are both breathable and will wick moisture away from your body. However, some say that eucalyptus sheets feel cooler against their skin.
Which is better, eucalyptus or bamboo sheets?
It depends on your personal preferences! They both have fine qualities and are cooling, hypoallergenic, and durable. We would say that the eucalyptus sheets are going to wrinkle less. Also, eucalyptus sheet production is often better for the environment.
Are eucalyptus sheets softer than bamboo?
Eucalyptus and bamboo sheets are equally soft. They are both smooth and silky and make for a very comfortable night of rest.
