In over 40 years of working with textiles, we’ve gained unparalleled expertise in handling all types of materials, weaves, and patterns. As part of our commitment to the industry, we aim to educate designers and retailers on the complexities of textile choices, particularly from a long-term service perspective. One fiber that warrants closer scrutiny is viscose—commonly marketed under names like rayon, artificial silk, bamboo silk, modal silk, banana silk, and more. While often promoted as an eco-friendly alternative to natural silk, viscose comes with significant considerations that both designers and retailers should understand to better educate their clientele.
What Is Viscose?
Viscose, often called rayon or art silk, is a semi-synthetic fiber derived from cellulose, a plant-based material. Though its origins are natural, the production process is anything but. Cellulose from wood or plant pulp is dissolved using chemicals like sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide, then regenerated into fibers through a process involving sulfuric acid. The result is a fiber that mimics the look and feel of silk at a fraction of the cost.
The Drawbacks of Viscose
Viscose’s lightweight, soft texture and attractive sheen make it highly desirable for its luxurious aesthetic. However, these advantages come with notable drawbacks:
Durability
Viscose is inherently fragile, with a typical lifespan of 5-7 years, depending on environmental factors and maintenance practices. Its fibers are susceptible to wear, sunlight exposure, and improper cleaning methods. Overly aggressive vacuuming, scrubbing, or the use of harsh chemicals can lead to fiber distortion or breakdown.
Moisture Sensitivity
When wet, viscose becomes significantly weaker, making it prone to damage from spills or improper cleaning techniques. Professional cleaning of viscose requires specialized knowledge and extreme care. Water-based cleaning methods are often unsuitable, as they can cause shrinkage, discoloration, or irreversible damage. Low-moisture or dry cleaning methods designed specifically for delicate fibers are generally recommended.
Environmental Impact
While marketed as sustainable, viscose has a substantial environmental footprint. The manufacturing process involves hazardous chemicals, posing risks to both workers and the environment. Moreover, viscose is not biodegradable within a practical timeframe, often contributing to landfill waste.
Recommendations for Designers and Retailers
As trusted advisors to your clients, you play a crucial role in helping them make informed decisions about textile purchases and care. Here’s how you can guide them:
Avoidance
Advise clients to consider more durable and sustainable alternatives to viscose, such as wool, cotton, or high-quality synthetic fibers. While viscose may initially appear cost-effective, its high maintenance requirements and limited lifespan often result in greater long-term expenses. Encourage your clients to weigh these factors when making purchasing decisions.
Professional Maintenance
If your clients already own viscose products, stress the importance of entrusting their cleaning and maintenance to seasoned professionals. Many cleaning companies refuse to work with viscose due to its fragility. Fortunately, we have extensive experience with viscose and can recommend the best care solutions to preserve its beauty and functionality.
Fabric Protection
Investing in high-quality fabric protection is one of the best ways to extend the life of viscose textiles. Protection treatments not only simplify maintenance but also reduce the risk of damage. Our DECO product by FiberProtector is an industry leader, designed specifically for pulp-based fibers like viscose. Free of harmful chemicals, it offers advanced protection while being environmentally responsible.
Why This Matters
For designers and retailers, understanding the true nature of viscose fibers allows you to better serve your clients. By educating them about the material’s limitations and care requirements, you help them make choices that align with their lifestyle, budget, and environmental values. This proactive approach enhances your reputation as a knowledgeable and trustworthy resource.
Final Thoughts
Viscose’s silk-like appeal comes with hidden costs—both financial and environmental. By sharing these insights with your clients, you set them up to make smarter, more sustainable decisions. Whether they need guidance on choosing alternative materials, professional cleaning services, or advanced fabric protection, we’re here to support you and your clients every step of the way.
Feel free to reach out to us for expert advice or services tailored to high-end textiles. Together, we can ensure that every home is beautiful, sustainable, and well-cared-for.