Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood cellulose, designed to emulate silk’s luxurious feel. Developed in 1884, it is lightweight, shiny, and versatile for various garments. Care for viscose includes gentle hand washing, cautious machine washing with low temperatures, and avoiding dryers. Ironing should be done on a low setting with steam, while proper storage involves hanging to prevent creases. Following these guidelines helps maintain the fabric’s quality and appearance over time.
Understanding Viscose: A Unique Fabric
Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric crafted from wood cellulose through a series of chemical processes. Unlike natural fibers such as cotton or linen, viscose is an artificial material. This innovative fabric was first developed in 1884 by the French inventor, Count Hilaire de Chardonnet, who aimed to create a textile that mimicked the luxurious feel of silk. Viscose is known for being budget-friendly, shiny, lightweight, and fluid, making it an excellent choice for a variety of garments including dresses, shirts, flowing trousers, and linings. However, to preserve the quality of your favorite viscose items, it’s essential to follow some care tips to prevent shrinking or damage during ironing.
Caring for Your Viscose Garments
**Washing Viscose: A Gentle Approach** Unlike wool, which often requires less frequent cleaning due to its self-cleaning properties, viscose tends to attract dust and odors, necessitating regular washing. This delicate fabric requires special attention; hence, hand washing in cold or lukewarm water is the preferred method. For stain removal, gently dab the affected area with a mild detergent or fabric stain remover.
**Machine Washing Tips** While hand washing is the safest method for viscose, machine washing is an option if done carefully. To prevent your delicate blouse from shrinking, always turn it inside out before washing. This simple step helps retain its shine. To protect the fabric from friction, wash viscose items with similar colors or place them in a laundry bag. Use a washing cycle set to a maximum of 30°C on a ‘hand wash’ or ‘delicate cycle,’ ensuring the spin speed does not exceed 1,200 revolutions per minute.
**Drying Techniques for Viscose** Avoid using a dryer for your viscose garments. If you need to spin them, refrain from twisting the fabric, as this can distort its fibers. Instead, lay the garment flat on a towel in a well-ventilated area to absorb excess water. Once this is done, hang the item on a hanger to air dry. Steer clear of placing viscose garments on a hot radiator, as high temperatures can lead to unwanted shrinkage.
**Ironing Viscose: Restoring Softness** Post-wash, your viscose clothing may feel slightly stiff and wrinkled. Don’t worry! You can easily restore their softness and shape through careful ironing. Always set your iron to a low temperature, ideally on the ‘silk’ setting, and utilize steam for best results. Iron the garments inside out while they are still damp. For added protection and to avoid any shine on the fabric, consider using a pressing cloth or an anti-shine soleplate.
When storing your viscose pieces, opt for hanging them on hangers instead of folding. Folding can cause creases that will require ironing before wear. By following these care tips, you can keep your viscose garments looking their best for years to come.