A guide to switching to bamboo products in 2023

I have a New Year’s resolution to switch to buying bamboo products whenever possible. Why you ask?

There are several reasons why you might consider switching to bamboo products over other products such as wood based or plastic based products:

Sustainability: Bamboo is a fast-growing grass that can regenerate itself quickly, making it a more sustainable resource than many types of wood. Bamboo plants can grow up to four feet in a single day and can be harvested every three to five years, while trees may take decades to mature and can only be harvested once.

Durability: Bamboo is a strong and durable material that can be used to make a variety of products, including flooring, furniture, clothing, and cutting boards. It is also resistant to moisture and insect damage.

Environmental impact: Bamboo is considered to be a more environmentally friendly choice than wood because it absorbs more carbon dioxide and releases more oxygen into the air. Bamboo forests also provide habitat for a variety of wildlife.

Cost: Depending on the product, bamboo may be more affordable than wood. Bamboo is also often more readily available, which can reduce shipping costs and the overall environmental impact of production.

Overall, using bamboo products can help reduce our reliance on traditional wood products, which can help protect forests and support more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.

That said - here are the various areas that you can be more conscientious and eco friendly with your product buying:

Flooring: Bamboo flooring is a durable and sustainable alternative to traditional wood flooring. It is available in a range of styles and colors, and is easy to install. We have a guide to Bamboo flooring here.

Furniture: Bamboo can be used to make a variety of furniture items, including tables, chairs, and shelving. It is lightweight and easy to work with, making it a popular choice for DIY projects.

Cutting boards: Bamboo cutting boards are durable and easy to maintain. They are also more sustainable than wood cutting boards because bamboo can be harvested more frequently without damaging the plant. Here is an excellent 3-pack of bamboo cutting boards from Amazon.

Kitchen utensils: Bamboo can be used to make a variety of kitchen utensils, including spoons, spatulas, and chopsticks. Bamboo utensils are lightweight, durable, and easy to clean.

Textiles: Bamboo fibers can be used to make a variety of textiles, including clothing, bedding, and towels. Bamboo is a natural, breathable fabric that is soft to the touch and hypoallergenic. Here are some of our favorite bamboo clothing brands.

Home decor: Bamboo can be used to make a variety of home decor items, including baskets, vases, and candle holders. It is a versatile and sustainable material that adds a natural touch to any space.

Outdoor products: Bamboo can be used to make a cornucopia of outdoor products, including fences, trellises, and garden stakes. It is a durable and weather-resistant material that can withstand the elements.

Our recommendation for those just starting to dip their toes in what Bamboo has to offer - try starting with Bamboo towels. Cariloha has some superb ones (below). Thank me later when your towels no longer get that funky smell!