Is It Really Bamboo?

I recently bought a nightgown that was supposed to be good for warm weather. I always get hot when I sleep. I liked the idea that it was also supposed to be made of bamboo. Doesn't that sound sustainable and environmental?

The descriptions touted:

"Bamboo viscose is highly absorbent it drinks in moisture faster than other materials. It keeps your skin dry on hot days or while sleep

It is also highly breathable, so it lets air pass through it freely, regulate your body temperature, make sure you will be comfy regardless if the climate is hot or cold."

I bought it from Amazon and was very pleased when I got it. It really is quite comfortable and felt good for sleeping. I wash it in cold water and hang to dry. I did learn later that it has to be handled carefully because it's not durable. Still, I liked it so much that I bought another one.

I was looking at the tag the other day and wondered what viscose was. Bamboo viscose? I looked online and learned it's actually rayon.

What a shock when I read the following on the good on you website:

"The wood pulp that viscose is made from is manufactured by treating it with chemicals, which is then filtered and spun into a fine thread. This is a highly polluting process and releases many toxic chemicals into the air and waterways surrounding production plants. Carbon disulphide, one of the chemicals used, is another toxic ingredient which has been linked to higher levels of coronary heart disease, birth defects, skin conditions, and cancer, not just in textile workers, but also in those who live near viscose factories. What’s more, dissolving-pulp wastes approximately 70% of the tree and is a chemically intensive manufacturing process."

Doggone it! I guess I'll stick to cotton.