How to Clean Viscose: Expert Care Guide for Washing

Written by Carmen Rodriguez

How to Clean Viscose Fabric: Expert Care Guide for Washing, Drying, and Preserving Delicate Viscose

Viscose, also known as rayon, is a semi synthetic fabric prized for its soft, silk like texture and elegant drape. It’s often used in clothing, lingerie, linings, and home textiles, offering the luxurious feel of natural fibers at a more accessible price. But while viscose is beautiful to wear, it’s notoriously delicate to clean, especially when wet.

Improper care can cause viscose garments to shrink, wrinkle, or lose their shape entirely. In this expert guide, we’ll show you how to clean viscose properly, including hand washing techniques, drying tips, and what to avoid to keep your viscose items looking their best.

What Is Viscose?

Before diving into care, it helps to understand what viscose fabric actually is. Made from cellulose fibers derived from wood pulp, viscose is classified as a semi synthetic fabric. It blends the breathability of cotton with the smooth feel of silk, making it popular in both high end and everyday garments.

However, viscose is weaker when wet and prone to shrinkage and deformation if mishandled. That’s why special care is essential when cleaning viscose clothing and intimates.

How to Clean Viscose: Step by Step Hand Washing Guide

Hand washing is the safest and most effective method for cleaning viscose. Machine washing can be too aggressive for this fabric, especially if not handled properly.

Here’s how to clean viscose by hand:

Fill a basin or sink with cool to lukewarm water, never hot.
Add a mild detergent (preferably one formulated for delicates).
Submerge the garment and gently agitate the water. Do not rub, twist, or scrub.
Soak for no more than 5–10 minutes.
Rinse thoroughly with cool, clean water to remove all detergent residue.
Gently press out excess water using a clean towel. Lay the garment flat on the towel, roll it up, and press, never wring.
Lay flat to dry, reshaping the item carefully on a drying rack or clean surface.

Can You Machine Wash Viscose?

While not recommended for delicate viscose, some machine washable viscose garments exist, but only if explicitly labeled “machine washable” by the manufacturer.

If machine washing is allowed:

Use a mesh laundry bag to protect the garment.
Wash on a gentle/delicate cycle with cold water.
Use a mild detergent without bleach or harsh chemicals.
Avoid fabric softeners.
Never tumble dry, air dry flat only.

If there’s any doubt, stick to hand washing. The risk of shrinkage or fabric damage is high with viscose in machines.

How to Dry Viscose: Air Drying Is Essential

After washing, air drying is the only safe method for viscose. The fibers become weak and easily distorted when wet, so drying must be gentle and precise.

Drying Tips:

Do not hang wet viscose garments, as they may stretch or become misshapen.
Lay flat on a clean, absorbent towel or drying rack.
Smooth the garment into shape while damp to prevent wrinkling.
Avoid direct sunlight or heat sources, which can fade or weaken the fabric.

Ironing and Wrinkle Removal

Viscose is prone to wrinkling but can be ironed carefully once dry.

Use a low to medium heat setting.
Always iron inside out.
Use a pressing cloth or lightly mist with water to prevent scorching.
Avoid steam if the care label advises against it.

What to Avoid When Cleaning Viscose

Never wring or twist viscose when wet, it will lose shape.
Avoid hot water, which can cause shrinking or fabric distortion.
Do not tumble dry. The heat and tumbling action can destroy the structure of the fabric.
No bleach or strong stain removers, they can degrade the delicate cellulose fibers.

Final Thoughts: Handle Viscose with Care

Viscose offers beauty, softness, and elegance but only if cared for correctly. By learning how to clean viscose the right way, you can preserve the look, feel, and longevity of your garments. From gentle hand washing to air drying and careful ironing, every step matters. Treat your viscose items like the luxury fabric they resemble, and they’ll reward you with comfort and style for years to come.