When the temperature drops, most people reach for flannel. It is the classic winter pajama: thick, fuzzy and associated with cabins, fireplaces and Christmas mornings. But plenty of people find that flannel pajamas leave them overheating by 2am, especially in a warm, well-heated Canadian home. So is flannel really the best choice for winter, or is bamboo better?
Here is how the two fabrics compare, and how to choose the right winter pajamas for the way you actually sleep.
What is flannel?
Flannel is a soft woven fabric, usually made from cotton, that has been brushed to raise the fibres and create that fuzzy surface. The brushing traps air, which is what makes flannel feel warm. It is a good insulator, which is great outdoors or in a cold, drafty room, and less great in a heated bedroom.
What is bamboo fabric?
Bamboo pajamas are made from viscose from bamboo, a fibre made from bamboo pulp. Ours is a blend of 93% viscose from bamboo and 7% spandex. It feels smooth and silky rather than fuzzy, it drapes rather than stands stiff, and it is breathable and moisture-wicking. For a deeper look at the fabric, read everything you need to know about viscose from bamboo.
Bamboo vs flannel: side by side
| Flannel | Bamboo | |
|---|---|---|
| Feel | Fuzzy, thick, brushed | Smooth, silky, soft stretch |
| Warmth | Traps heat, very warm | Regulates temperature, warm without overheating |
| Breathability | Lower | High |
| Moisture | Holds onto sweat | Wicks moisture away from the skin |
| Weight | Heavy | Lightweight |
| Over time | Can pill and lose its softness | Gets softer with washing |
| Best for | Cold, drafty rooms; people who always feel cold | Heated homes; hot sleepers; night sweats; year-round wear |
The warmth question
The main reason people choose flannel is warmth, and flannel is warm. The catch is that most of us do not sleep in a cold room. Canadian homes in winter are heated, often to the point where a heavy flannel set and a duvet together are simply too much. You fall asleep cozy, then wake up hot and kick everything off.
Bamboo works differently. Rather than trapping as much heat as possible, it helps regulate your temperature: it breathes when you are warm and holds comfortable warmth when you are cool. That makes it easier to stay comfortable through the whole night, rather than just the first hour.
Who should choose flannel?
- You sleep in a cold or drafty room, like a cottage or basement.
- You always feel cold, even under a heavy duvet.
- You only wear your pajamas for a short time, rather than all night.
Who should choose bamboo?
- You run hot, or wake up sweaty in flannel.
- You experience night sweats, including during menopause. See our guide to the best pajamas for menopause night sweats.
- You live in a warm, heated home.
- You want one set of pajamas that works all year, not just in winter.
- You have sensitive skin and prefer something smooth rather than brushed.
How to stay warm in bamboo pajamas
If you love the idea of bamboo but worry about feeling cold, a few simple choices make a big difference:
- Choose long sleeves and full-length pants. Our cozy and covered sleepwear brings together our warmest, most covered styles, from long sleeve button-down sets to henley harem sets and long sleeve nighties.
- Layer with a robe. A bamboo robe over your pajamas is perfect for cold mornings. Our guide on how to choose a women's robe explains what to look for.
- Add a toque or socks. A lot of body heat is lost through your head and feet.
The festive look, without the heat
One of the things people love about flannel is the classic plaid look at Christmas. You can have that in bamboo too. Our plaid and tartan pajamas give you the traditional winter prints in a fabric that will not leave you overheating on Christmas Eve. Read more in our guide to Christmas pajamas for women.
Frequently asked questions
Are bamboo pajamas warm enough for winter?
For most people in a heated home, yes. Bamboo regulates temperature, so it keeps you comfortable without overheating. Choose long sleeves and full-length pants for the most warmth.
Is flannel or bamboo better for night sweats?
Bamboo. It is breathable and moisture-wicking, while flannel tends to trap heat and hold onto moisture.
Do bamboo pajamas pill like flannel?
Our bamboo pajamas are designed to stay soft and hold their shape through regular washing. Turn them inside out and tumble dry on low for the longest life.
Can I get plaid pajamas in bamboo?
Yes. Our plaid and tartan collection gives you the classic winter prints in our signature bamboo fabric.
Find your winter pajamas. Shop cozy and covered sleepwear or browse plaid and tartan pajamas.
