Showing posts with label Outdoor Bamboo Products. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Outdoor Bamboo Products. Show all posts

How is Bamboo Cricket Bat Different from Willow Cricket Bat?

A recent (May 2021) study finds that cricket bats made from bamboo could be an alternative to traditional willow bats. 

Cricket bats are an important piece of equipment in the game. 

The bats used in cricket matches predominantly come from the English willow trees. 

A strict law governs the production and use of bats in professional matches. 

So, why bamboo cricket bats? Can you use them in cricket matches?

Key features of bamboo cricket bats

The bamboo bats are made from 100% natural bamboo. They are heavier, stronger and more durable. 

Also, bamboo bats are products of sustainable bamboo plants and are eco-friendly. 

Recent research by the University of Cambridge uncovers the key performance features of bamboo bats as compared to traditional willow bats. 

Generally, the bamboo bat used in the research:
  • offers ‘low stiffness’.
  • produces leather sound.
  • offers a better ‘sweet spot’.
  • comes from sustainable giant bamboo.
  • is heavier and delivers more energy to the ball.
Check out our collection of bamboo eco-products. We research each product and give a balanced overview so that you can make the right choice.

Bamboo bat research, promising

The study compare performances of a prototype bamboo bat against the traditional willow bat. 

It uses video technology and computer modelling to investigate the impact, vibration, hardness and compression of the bamboo and willow bats. 

Interestingly, the study finds that bamboo bats show the 5 standout features mentioned above. And performed exceptionally well against the traditional willow bats. 

That said, there are legal and technical issues needed resolving before using bamboo cricket bats at the professional level. 

Read more about the new research and what the MCC (Marylebone Cricket Club) said about it at the end of the article. 

How is Bamboo Cricket Bat Different from willow Cricket Bat? Image: University of Cambridge website (A researcher, Ben Tinkler-Davies, with the prototype bamboo bat)

What did the researchers say?

The researchers said:
"It has been great to see the massively positive feedback we've had from the cricketing community. We expected questions and reservations, but at this point in time we need to be looking to the future and sustainability. Cricket could be a real leader in that.”
"Hopefully one day we'll have a professional player walking out into Lord's holding a bamboo cricket bat."
"We feel the advantages massively outweigh the disadvantages, so it would be great to start working with the MCC.

How is Bamboo Cricket Bat Different from Willow Cricket Bat? 

Advantages of bamboo bats

The willow trees take more than 15 years to grow to maturity, whereas the Guadua and Moso timber bamboos take less than 7 years to harvest. 

The fast-growing habit means bamboos are sustainable raw materials for making cricket bats. 

More so, these giant bamboos grow in many parts of the world including China, India and the US. Results from the University of Cambridge study conclude that bamboo outperforms willow bats.

It stated that ‘’
it's [bamboo bat is] stiffer, harder and better under bending’’.

Disadvantages of bamboo cricket bats

The bamboo bats are dense and very heavy because of the high number of bamboo strips used in a laminated plank. 

Their combined weight is far greater than a single plank made from the willow tree. 

 One of the University of Cambridge researchers said:
"We made a prototype bat and it was 40 per cent heavier than a willow. But that was based off a 2016, classically-shaped bat.
To make it better, he added:
"The next stage of our project is to take the better material properties and make a thinner bat which, although would be the same weight as a willow, it hopefully should have better properties."

Raw material for bamboo cricket bats

Bamboo planks (the main material for making cricket bats) come from laminated bamboo strips. First, bamboo culms are split lengthwise into fine strips. 

Then, glued and laminated into planks before being cut into the right size. The result is a much stronger, higher-density plank. 

According to the University of Cambridge, the bat is made from Guadua and Moso bamboo planks.

How is Bamboo Cricket Bat Different from willow Cricket Bat? 

Are bamboo cricket bats sustainable?

It takes a willow tree 15 to 20 years to mature whereas the Guadua and Chinese Moso timber bamboos take less than 7 years. 

They are fast-growing plants and tend to grow taller every year. That means that a Moso timber bamboo grove can produce more planks in 20 years compared to a willow tree. 

They are sustainable.

How is Bamboo Cricket Bat Different from willow Cricket Bat?

What did MCC say about bamboo bats?

The MCC released a statement two days after the bamboo cricket bat study was published in the Institution of Mechanical Engineers Journal. 

The governing body said:
"[We] read with interest the research study from the University of Cambridge. "Currently, law 5.3.2 states that the blade of the bat must consist solely of wood, so for bamboo (which is a grass) to be considered as a realistic alternative to willow would require a law change.
"The law would need to be altered to allow bamboo specifically, as even if it were to be recognised as a wood, this would still be illegal under the current law, which bans lamination of the blade, except in junior bats.''
It is important for the world cricket governing body to consider the impact of changing the law regarding cricket bats because it is significant cricket equipment. Here is what MCC said:
"MCC's role as Guardian of the Laws includes maintaining the balance between bat and ball, and any potential amendments to the Law would need to carefully take this into consideration, particularly the concept of the bat producing greater power."
In regard to environment and sustainability, MCC said:
"Sustainability is a relevant topic for MCC and indeed cricket, and this angle of willow alternatives should also be considered.
"With the researchers stating that the most suitable types of bamboo grow abundantly across China and that low-cost production could make bamboo bats a viable and ethical alternative to willow, this could provide a pertinent angle for further research and the possibility of reducing the cost of producing bats in different areas of the world."

Interest in bamboo cricket bats

At present, the MCC is yet to make a statement on the legal and technical aspects of bamboo cricket bats. 

Recently, India manufactured bamboo cricket bats. And, testing them out following the trend set by the University of Cambridge team. The admiration for bamboo cricket bats is growing. 

Google searches indicated that Australian, New Zealand and South Africa cricket fans are fond of the heavy bamboo bats. 

As mentioned earlier, unless there is an amendment to The Bat Law 5.3.2, the use of bamboo is illegal at international stages.

Bamboo Cricket Bat vs. Willow Cricket Bat

Spectators like to see the big sixes, right? The bamboo cricket bats may have the answer for the hard-hitting batsmen out there. 

The researchers believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages of using bamboo cricket bats. Meanwhile, they’ve reached out to the MCC and are awaiting a response to their findings. 

The international cricket body has yet to deliberate on what to do. 

Going forward, the researchers are aiming to make thinner bats that weigh the same as the thicker willow bats

That could change the game in a big way. 

This commentary is based on the initial research done by the University of Cambridge. You can see the original research on the University of Cambridge website.

Best large glass canister jars with bamboo lids

Every spice needs the best storage so that it remains fresh. Glass jars with bamboo lids are ideal for storing spices. The lids have special rubber rims that keep them securely fastened when closed. 

But it requires a good understanding of the sizes and types of the spice glass jars to find the perfect one.

We’ve done the research and found ideal spice jars with sustainable bamboo lids for you. 

Top tip: Bamboo lids with rubber rims are the best seals. When buying spice glass jars or canisters with bamboo lids, always ensure that the inner rubber-rim seals are present.

Canisters with bamboo lids

The storage canisters are multi-purpose use. They are great for spices as well as sugar, coffee and tea. This product is sold by Ryman. You can also browse the massive collection of jars and canisters at their site.

Spice canister jars with bamboo lids

  • + 3 in a set
  • + Tight-sealed lids
  • + Multi-purpose use 
  • + Large internal area
  • + Solid and lightweight
  • +  Sustainable bamboo lids
  • - Bulky
  • - Likely mismatch
  • - Alternative for glass jars

 

Spice glass jars/canisters with bamboo lids – single

You can get them in different sizes. This spice glass jar with a bamboo lid is for storing long spices or multiple spice glasses because of the large spaces inside them.

large glass canister jar with bamboo lid rubber rim

Positives

  • + Stackable
  • + Large storage
  • + Tight-fit lid with rubber seal
  • + Lid comes with glass jar
  • + Store spices and other food
  • + Large storage area

Negatives

  • - bulky
  • - hard to open

Stackable glass jars with bamboo lids – sets

Not only stable and stackable but also beautiful. 

This product from JD Williams can be used to store sugar, coffee and tea. 

Yet, perfect for spices. It comes with a bamboo lid. The rubber rims around the lids are perfect for keeping spices fresh.

Spice Glass Jars Sets with Bamboo Lids

  • + Stackable         
  • + Available in sets
  • + Sustainable bamboo lids
  • + Rubber rims/seals
  • + Stylish engraved designs
  • - Likely to run out of stock
  • - Available in 650 ml glass only
Check out the benefits of using Spices Glass Storage with Bamboo lid


Differences between glass jars and canisters

Canisters are bigger than glass jars. You can store several smaller spice glass jars in a large canister. Alternatively, store large spices in a canister and smaller ones in glass jars. It depends entirely on how you want to use them.

Perhaps the important thing is to keep the spice nice and fresh.

Some canisters with bamboo lids are purpose-built to hold a number of smaller glasses. 

If you want a super cool canister that can hold all the spices together, check these products on Amazon.

What storage glass jars with bamboo lids to buy?

The single spice jars are best buys if you want to add to your collections of spice jars. But, if you want a complete set, the stable glass jars that come with labels are great storage.

If you get your spice in whole, the canisters with bamboo lids are good for storing them.

Alternatively, safely store the smaller spice glass jars in a larger canister and use the bamboo lid to secure everything against the elements. That way, your spice will last longer and have the same fresh taste every time.

Conclusion

All in all, the best spice glass jars and canisters with lids have elastic rubber rims. 

They come in different sizes, some single and others in sets. 

See our affiliate shop for more bamboo products.

Disclaimer: We may earn commission from purchases through the product links, it comes at no additional cost to you.

What are benefits of spice storage jars with bamboo lids?

There are many benefits of spice storage jars with bamboo lids. Storing and retrieving spices are easy and are decorative pieces of storage jars. Make a statement every time.

Spice Glass Jars Sets with Bamboo Lids

This product from JD Williams can be used to store sugar, coffee and tea. 


Benefits of spice storage with bamboo lids

The jars and canisters are perfect for storing dry foods including spices. They are a great alternative to single-use plastic. 

They come in various sizes and shapes with durable bamboo lids which will help keep food fresh. You can also take it with you whether you are travelling to work or having a picnic.

The canisters are made from metal aluminium, whereas the glass jars are made of borosilicate glass the jars. 

Washable in hot and cold water. 

However, do not wash the bamboo lids in the dishwasher, always wash in warm soapy water and clean-dry immediately.

Both spice glass jars and canisters with bamboo lids are durable. They will last as long as you take care of them.

What storage glass jars with bamboo lids to buy?

The single spice jars are best buys if you want to add to your collections of spice jars. But, if you want a complete set, the stable glass jars that come with labels are great storage.

If you get your spice in whole, the canisters with bamboo lids are good for storing them.

Alternatively, safely store the smaller spice glass jars in a larger canister and use the bamboo lid to secure everything against the elements. That way, your spice will last longer and have the same fresh taste every time.

The best spice glass jars and canisters with lids have elastic rubber rims. 

They come in different sizes, some single and others in sets. 

See our affiliate shop for more bamboo products.

Disclaimer: We may earn commission from purchases through the product links, it comes at no additional cost to you.

Are bamboo furniture durable?

 There are certain things to know about bamboo furniture, whether you own one or planning to buy it.

Bamboo products and especially outdoor bamboo furniture will need some care to last longer. 

So, are bamboo outdoor furniture durable? We take a look at how it's made and why it's durable - what you can do to make it last longer

What to know about bamboo furniture?

Gigantochloa verticillate Giant Bamboo

Giant timber bamboos

There are different types of bamboo plants. 

The most common ones used for making furniture are the giant timber bamboo

They are cut, split cleaned and dried. 

After that, the splits are tidied into fine strands and laminated to bamboo beams, panels, ply, veneer, lumber, etc.
Find out about the best bamboo outdoor furniture in the UK 

Our door furniture general care

Though natural bamboo furniture is tough and durable, exposure to outdoor conditions can damage them. 

So, protect them by using some sort of cover or storing them indoors.

Ocassional maintenance

Bamboo indoor and outdoor furniture will require occasional dusting and maintenance. 

The indoor bamboo furniture will require cleaning with a wet cloth to clean the dust and cobwebs.

Whereas, the outdoor ones will definitely require occasional vanishing to make them look beautiful again.

Outdoor storage

Before buying, it is important to think about where you will keep the furniture during the winter or when they are not in use. 

There is no need to worry if you are going to place them in a designated area outdoor. 

But then, it is better to provide some sort of cover to protect them from the weather when you are not using them

Bamboo furniture is durable


Bamboo furniture sets are adorable. Their durability, strength and appearance make them the best outdoor and indoor furniture. 

Their presence at home creates an atmosphere of calmness. 

Above all,  bamboo outdoor garden furniture is made of sustainable material, unlike trees and plastics.

Bamboo outdoor garden furniture are sustainable

Bamboo home products provide a feeling of warmth and comfort that synthetic products do not give. 

In fact, the demand for bamboo outdoor garden furniture and other home furnishing pieces is growing as many people are looking for eco-friendly alternatives to tree and plastic options. 

What’s more, the bamboo home furniture is strong and durable, ideal for both indoors and outdoors. 

What is some common bamboo furniture for home and garden? Here we take a look at 10 common indoor and outdoor furniture and where you can get them.

bamboo storage shelves and cabinets UK

Bamboo garden furniture

The bamboos are tough raw materials for making furniture. 

Aside from the fine finishes applied to protect the garden and home bamboo furniture, they have natural antibacterial properties that protect them. 

 One thing to mention here is that the bamboo fibre itself, like other raw materials, is not durable. 

But its natural durability and toughness are further enhanced during the manufacturing process through the application of finishes. 

Furthermore, the laminated bamboo strips are stronger than a single oak timber, for example. This means that the garden bamboo furniture is stronger, tougher and more durable.

Bamboo furniture for indoors

  • 1. Vintage bamboo furniture set
  • 2. Bamboo dining table set
  • 3. Bamboo bedside table
  • 4. Bamboo bedframe
  • 5. Bamboo bathmat

Check out B&Q's wide collection of Garden and Home sustainable bamboo products.

Bamboo furniture is growing in popularity lately as many homeowners realise that there are more stunning options available on the market than it was 5 years ago. 

More than that, bamboos are a highly sustainable raw material for making furniture sets such as Vintage bamboo furniture sets and Bamboo dining table sets. 

Bamboo furniture for the outdoors is also growing in demand due to the fact that they are durable and strong. What’s more, they will last for years with minimal maintenance.

Bamboo outdoor garden furniture

Check out these fantastic bamboo furniture collections at Cox and Cox UK.

  • 1. Bamboo Outdoor lanterns
  • 2. Bamboo outdoor chairs
  • 3. Bamboo outdoor sofa
  • 4. Bamboo outdoor furniture set
  • 5. Bamboo lounge

Why choose bamboo furniture for indoors and outdoors?

Bamboos are giant grass plant that grows very quickly. It grows faster than trees and is highly sustainable. 

In addition, there are other reasons why bamboo furniture is a great addition to your home and garden collections.

Tough and durable

Bamboo furniture can withstand the weather and everyday use. 

Its natural hardiness and tolerance to high humidity mean that furniture made from bamboo is tough. 

These properties of bamboo make them an ideal choice for outdoor furniture.

Bambo cricket bats are good alternatives for willow bats due to their durability and versatility.

Bamboo Cricket Bat UK

Flexible and bendable

They are flexible and bendable.

For this reason, bamboo is used to produce stunning furniture with curves that are hard to achieve with other wooden raw materials. 

Home and furniture designers can create products from bamboo which are unique and stunning like the bamboo bed frame, and outdoor and indoor light shades.

Strong and heavy

Bamboo strength to weight ratio is similar to oak or other hardwoods. However, bamboo splits when laminated to form a formidable layer. 

Bamboo furniture is reasonably stronger and heavier than those made from hardwood timbers. They are firm on the ground and will not wobble like the lighter pieces of furniture do. 

One example of a product that is strong and heavy is the bamboo outdoor furniture set.

Nice and smooth

Bamboo plants grow straight and produce a fine grain. For this reason, bamboo furniture has a nice and soft appearance.

What to know about bamboo furniture?

Gigantochloa verticillate Giant Bamboo

Giant timber bamboos

There are different types of bamboo plants. 

The most common ones used for making furniture are the giant timber bamboo

They are cut, split cleaned and dried. 

After that, the splits are tidied into fine strands and laminated to bamboo beams, panels, ply, veneer, lumber, etc.

General care

Though natural bamboo furniture is tough and durable, exposure to outdoor conditions can damage them. 

So, protect them by using some sort of cover or storing them indoors.

Ocassional maintenance

Bamboo indoor and outdoor furniture will require occasional dusting and maintenance. 

The indoor bamboo furniture will require cleaning with a wet cloth to clean the dust and cobwebs.

Whereas, the outdoor ones will definitely require occasional vanishing to make them look beautiful again.

Outdoor storage

Before buying, it is important to think about where you will keep the furniture during the winter or when they are not in use. 

There is no need to worry if you are going to place them in a designated area outdoor. 

But then, it is better to provide some sort of cover to protect them from the weather when you are not using them.

Conclusion

Bamboo furniture sets are adorable. Their durability, strength and appearance make them the best outdoor and indoor furniture. 

Their presence at home creates an atmosphere of calmness. Above all,  bamboo outdoor garden furniture is made of sustainable material, unlike trees and plastics.

Bamboo bathroom product ideas and list

Using bamboo products in the bathroom will augment the introduction of tropical plants and any other efforts you make to reimagine this space as an exotic oasis.

Bamboo bathroom products

To make matters even more appealing, bamboo products are often very reasonably priced because the wood material grows rapidly and it's easy to work with as a manufacturing resource. 

In addition, bamboo is highly water resistant and makes a perfect addition to virtually any bathroom format.

Home has its ambience. Why not have your tropical paradise at home. Bamboo is Eco-friendly and lightweight—a stunning and durable material.

Tropical Jewel Box Bathroom

Using a custom silk mural with bamboo, berries & birds, you can create an oasis in this tight powder room that feels anything but cramped. 

The vanity is adorned with classic details & gold trimmings for an elegant, Old World feeling.

 Natural Bamboo Soap Holder for Home Bathroom 

The Natural Bamboo Soap Holder Square & Round Soap Dishes for Home Bathrooms are the best storage solutions for small spaces.