Fabric comparison
Muslin, bamboo, and jersey are all soft choices for baby clothes, but they behave differently once they're on a warm, wriggling body. Muslin is a loose, open cotton weave that lets air move straight through the fabric itself. Bamboo and jersey are knitted rather than woven, which gives them stretch and a smooth surface, with their own strengths depending on the weather.
By Vanessa & Bob, Epic in Bali · Updated 26 September 2026
| Muslin | Bamboo and Jersey | |
|---|---|---|
| Fibre & construction | Muslin is cotton, woven in an open, loose weave that leaves small gaps between the threads. Epic's version uses two of these layers stitched together with flat seams. | Bamboo fabric is usually a knit made from bamboo-derived viscose or rayon, often blended with cotton for stretch. Jersey is a knit too, most often cotton, though it can be made from bamboo or a blend as well. |
| Breathability | The open weave lets air pass straight through, which helps heat escape from the skin. | Bamboo knit is soft and can breathe well, though its tighter structure moves air less freely than an open weave. Jersey's breathability depends on how tightly it's knitted, a loose jersey breathes well, a dense one holds more warmth. |
| Weight & feel | Muslin is light and a little textured, especially before it's been through a few washes. | Bamboo knit feels silky and drapes close to the body. Jersey feels familiar and stretchy, like a soft t-shirt. |
| Hot-weather performance | Because it's woven loose and dries quickly, muslin doesn't hold onto sweat or dampness for long in the heat. | Bamboo knit feels cool against the skin at first touch, though its close fit can trap warmth once a baby starts moving around. Jersey's stretch is comfortable, but a snug knit can feel warmer on a hot day than an open weave. |
| Softness & durability | Muslin starts a little crisp and softens more with every wash. Creasing easily is normal and just part of how it looks and feels. | Bamboo knit is soft from the first wear and keeps that softness well, though it can pill over time with repeated washing. Jersey is sturdy and holds its shape wash after wash. |
| Best for | Muslin suits hot, humid climates and layering, and it's forgiving of a rumpled, lived-in look. | Bamboo suits parents who want a silky feel and a close fit from day one. Jersey suits everyday basics that need to stretch and move with an active baby. |
Choose Muslin if you want a lightweight, open-weave cotton that breathes well in the heat, dries fast, and gets softer with every wash.
Choose Bamboo and Jersey if you prefer a stretchy knit with a silky or familiar t-shirt feel that moves easily with an active baby.