What You Need to Know About Viscose Material: Properties, Uses, and Environmental Impact

Sustainable Silkiness: The Complete Guide to Viscose Fabric in 2025

Viscose is a popular fabric known for its silky feel and versatility. It’s made from wood pulp and other plant materials, offering a more sustainable option than some synthetic fabrics. Viscose combines the comfort of natural fibers with the durability of man-made materials, making it a go-to choice for many clothing items.

This fabric drapes well and feels cool against the skin, which is why it’s often used for flowy dresses, blouses, and other light garments. It absorbs moisture and breathes like cotton, but it can also mimic the luxurious look of silk at a lower cost.

While viscose has many benefits, it requires special care. The fabric can shrink or lose shape if not washed properly. It’s best to use cold water and gentle detergents when cleaning viscose items. Knowing how to care for viscose can help your clothes last longer and look better.

Key Takeaways

• Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made from natural plant materials
• It offers a silk-like feel and appearance at a more affordable price
• Proper care is needed to maintain viscose items, including gentle washing in cold water

What Is Viscose Material?

Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood pulp. It offers a soft, silky feel and good breathability. Viscose is often used as an affordable alternative to silk in clothing and home textiles.

Definition and Origin

Viscose is a type of rayon fabric made from cellulose fibers. It was first created in the late 19th century as an artificial silk. The name “viscose” comes from the thick, viscous liquid used in the production process.

Viscose fabric is derived from natural materials, usually wood from trees like eucalyptus, pine, or bamboo. The cellulose is extracted and chemically treated to create fibers. These fibers are then woven or knit into fabric.

Viscose has a smooth, lightweight texture. It drapes well and feels cool against the skin. This versatile material is used for dresses, blouses, linings, and more.

Viscose Manufacturing Process

The viscose manufacturing process involves several chemical steps:

1. Wood pulp is dissolved in sodium hydroxide.
2. The solution is treated with carbon disulfide to form cellulose xanthate.
3. This substance is dissolved in more sodium hydroxide, creating a viscous orange liquid.
4. The liquid is pushed through a spinneret into an acid bath.
5. This causes the liquid to solidify into fine filaments.
6. The filaments are spun into yarn.

This process uses harsh chemicals and can be harmful to workers and the environment if not properly managed. Some newer methods aim to make viscose production more eco-friendly.

The resulting viscose yarn can be woven or knit into various fabric types. It’s often blended with other fibers to enhance its properties.

Characteristics of Viscose

Viscose fabric has unique traits that make it popular for clothing and home textiles. Its properties affect how it looks, feels, and impacts the environment.

Physical Properties

Viscose is soft and smooth to the touch. It drapes well, giving garments a flowy, elegant look. The fabric has a silky sheen that adds a touch of luxury.

Viscose is lightweight and breathable. It allows air to pass through easily, helping keep the wearer cool. This makes it great for warm weather clothing.

The material absorbs moisture well. It can soak up to 13% of its weight in water without feeling damp. This helps pull sweat away from the skin.

Viscose doesn’t hold heat well. It’s not ideal for cold weather wear on its own. But it works well as a layering piece under warmer fabrics.

Comfort and Wearability

Viscose feels cool and comfortable against the skin. Its softness and smooth texture make it pleasant to wear all day.

The fabric moves with the body. It doesn’t restrict movement or feel stiff. This makes it good for active wear and everyday clothing.

Viscose can wrinkle easily. Garments may need ironing or steaming to look crisp. Some blends with other fibers can reduce wrinkling.

The material can shrink when washed. Following care labels is important to keep viscose items in good shape. Dry cleaning is often recommended for viscose clothing.

Environmental Impact and Sustainability

Viscose comes from wood pulp, a renewable resource. This gives it an edge over synthetic fabrics made from oil.

The production process uses chemicals. These can harm workers and pollute water if not handled properly. Some manufacturers use safer methods to reduce risks.

Viscose breaks down faster than synthetic fabrics. It can decompose in a few months under the right conditions. This helps reduce long-term waste.

The material needs a lot of water to make. Growing trees for viscose can also lead to deforestation if not managed well. Sustainable sourcing practices are key to reducing these impacts.

It’s important to understand that while viscose comes from natural sources, the chemical processing changes the cellulose structure significantly. This makes it a semi-synthetic fabric rather than a completely natural one, falling somewhere between natural fibers like cotton and fully synthetic materials like polyester.

Sustainable Viscose Options

As consumer demand for eco-friendly materials grows, the market has responded with more sustainable viscose alternatives. These options address the environmental concerns associated with conventional viscose production while maintaining the fabric’s desirable qualities.

Certified Sustainable Viscose

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certified viscose comes from responsibly managed plantations, ensuring the wood used doesn’t contribute to deforestation. When shopping for viscose products, look for the FSC label, which verifies that materials originate from sustainable and legal sources.

The FSC certification tracks the “chain of custody” for viscose products, ensuring that materials from sustainably managed forests reach you without mixing with non-certified materials along the way. There are several FSC labels to look for:

• FSC 100%: All material comes from FSC-certified forests
• FSC Recycled: Made from 100% recycled materials
• FSC Mix: Contains a mixture of FSC-certified materials, recycled content, and controlled sources

Many major US retailers now carry FSC-certified viscose products, making it easier for you to make environmentally responsible choices.

Innovative Sustainable Alternatives

Several companies are pioneering more sustainable viscose alternatives:

• Lenzing’s ECOVERO™ viscose uses up to 50% less water than traditional viscose and is manufactured with reduced emissions and waste.
• TENCEL™ Lyocell, also by Lenzing, is produced using a closed-loop system that recycles 99% of chemicals and water, making it one of the most eco-friendly cellulosic fibers available.
• S.Café® yarns incorporate spent coffee grounds to create fabrics with fast-drying, UV protection, and antibacterial properties.
• QMilk offers a soft, silky fabric made from non-food milk sources that would otherwise be discarded, using only two liters of water per kilogram of fiber.

US Brands Leading in Sustainable Viscose

If you’re looking to add sustainable viscose pieces to your wardrobe, these US-available brands are leading the way:

• TAMGA Designs uses sustainable viscose from Lenzing and is known for their vibrant, premium clothing made with traceable botanic fibers.
• Whimsy + Row utilizes deadstock fabric and limits production runs to reduce waste.
• Altar Houseline proudly makes their clothing in America using deadstock materials, including viscose blends.
• Reformation has committed to sourcing sustainable viscose and provides transparency about their production practices.
• Patagonia incorporates S.Café® yarn into select pieces for performance benefits with reduced environmental impact.

Viscose in the Textile Industry

Viscose has become a popular material in textiles due to its versatility and affordability. It offers a silky feel and good draping qualities that make it useful for many types of clothing and fabrics.

Common Uses of Viscose

Viscose finds wide use in everyday clothing items. It’s often used to make dresses, blouses, and lightweight shirts. The material drapes well, making it good for flowy garments. Viscose is also used in intimates and lingerie because of its soft texture.

Many brands use viscose for bedding and household textiles. It works well for sheets, pillowcases, and curtains. The fabric breathes nicely and feels cool against the skin.

Viscose blends with other fibers to create specialty fabrics. It mixes with cotton for t-shirts and casual wear. When combined with polyester, it adds softness to activewear and sportswear.

Comparison with Other Fibers

Viscose shares some traits with both natural and synthetic fibers. It’s more absorbent than polyester but less so than cotton. The material feels soft like silk but costs much less.

Viscose wrinkles more easily than synthetics. It’s not as strong as nylon or polyester when wet. The fabric can shrink if not cared for properly.

Compared to wool, viscose is lighter and cooler to wear. It doesn’t provide as much warmth but works better in hot weather. Viscose lacks the natural stretch of wool.

Viscose production uses fewer chemicals than making polyester. But it needs more processing than natural fibers like cotton or linen. The environmental impact falls between natural and fully synthetic materials.

Caring for Viscose Fabrics

Viscose needs gentle treatment to stay in good condition. Proper washing, drying, and storage help keep viscose items looking their best for longer.

Washing and Drying Recommendations

Hand washing is best for viscose. Use cold water and mild detergent. Gently squeeze the fabric – don’t wring or twist it.

For machine washing, put items in a mesh bag. Use the delicate cycle with cold water. Avoid fabric softeners.

Air dry viscose flat on a clean towel. Don’t hang it up wet, as this can stretch the fabric. Keep it away from direct heat and sunlight while drying.

Don’t use the dryer. The heat can shrink or damage viscose fibers. If you must iron, use the lowest heat setting. Put a cloth between the iron and fabric to protect it.

For US consumers, look for these care symbols on your viscose garments:

• 🌡️ with dot: Iron on low heat
• 30° or cold water symbol: Wash in cold water
• Circle with an X: No dry cleaning
• Square with a curved line: Lay flat to dry

Long-Term Maintenance Tips

Store viscose items in cool, dry places. Don’t use plastic bags or containers. These can trap moisture and lead to mildew.

Use breathable cotton garment bags instead. These let air flow and help prevent damage.

Fold viscose carefully to avoid creases. Don’t hang heavy items for long periods. This can stretch the fabric out of shape.

Clean spots right away. Blot – don’t rub – to remove stains. Take delicate or expensive pieces to a dry cleaner for tough stains.

Check clothing labels. Some viscose blends may need special care. Follow the instructions to keep your items in top shape.

Advantages of Viscose Material

Viscose fabric offers several benefits that make it popular in the textile industry. Its softness and smooth texture rival more expensive materials like silk. This gives clothing a luxurious feel at a lower cost.

The material drapes beautifully on the body. It flows and moves gracefully, making it ideal for flowing dresses and skirts. Viscose also breathes well and wicks moisture away from the skin.

This fabric is highly absorbent. It can soak up to 13% of its weight in moisture without feeling damp. This quality makes viscose great for warm weather clothing and activewear.

Viscose takes dye easily. It can be produced in vibrant colors and intricate patterns. The material also blends well with other fibers to create unique fabric blends.

As a plant-based material, viscose is biodegradable. It breaks down more easily than fully synthetic fabrics. This makes it a more eco-friendly choice compared to some petroleum-based materials.

Viscose is versatile and can be used in many types of garments. It works well for dresses, blouses, sweaters, and even some home textiles like curtains and upholstery.

Limitations and Considerations

Viscose has some drawbacks that buyers should know about. These include issues with durability and potential health effects.

Durability Concerns

Viscose fabric isn’t very strong when wet. It can shrink, stretch, or lose its shape easily. Washing viscose requires extra care to avoid damage. It’s best to hand wash or dry clean viscose items.

The fabric also wrinkles quickly. Ironing helps but must be done carefully to prevent scorching. Viscose tends to pill, forming small balls of fibers on the surface over time.

Sunlight and sweat can weaken viscose fibers. This makes it less suitable for activewear or outdoor clothing. The material may not hold up well to frequent wear and washing.

Potential Health Impacts

Some people may have skin reactions to viscose. The fabric can trap moisture, leading to irritation or rashes in sensitive individuals.

The chemicals used to make viscose can be harmful. Workers in viscose factories face risks from carbon disulfide exposure. This chemical can cause nerve damage and other health problems.

Viscose production also creates air and water pollution. This affects communities near factories. Some viscose items may contain trace chemicals. Washing before wear helps remove these residues.

Choosing certified viscose can reduce health and environmental risks. Look for labels like OEKO-TEX or Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification.

Price Comparison: Conventional vs. Sustainable Viscose

When shopping for viscose products, you’ll notice price differences between conventional and sustainable options:

While sustainable viscose typically costs more upfront, many consumers find the investment worthwhile for the reduced environmental impact and often higher quality construction.

Innovations and Future of Viscose

New technologies and eco-friendly approaches are changing how viscose is made and used. These advances aim to make viscose more sustainable and versatile.

Technological Advancements

Closed-loop systems now help recycle chemicals used in viscose production. This cuts waste and pollution. Some companies use enzymes to break down cellulose, reducing harsh chemical use.

3D printing with viscose fibers is an exciting new area. It allows for custom-shaped fabrics and reduces material waste.

Nanocellulose, made from very tiny wood fibers, is being added to viscose. This makes the fabric stronger and more durable.

Smart textiles are another innovation. Viscose can be mixed with conductive materials to create fabrics that respond to heat or moisture.

Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Lyocell is a type of viscose made with a greener process. It uses less toxic chemicals and more recyclable materials.

Bamboo viscose is gaining popularity. Bamboo grows fast and needs fewer pesticides than trees.

Some companies are making viscose from recycled cotton. This helps reduce textile waste in landfills.

Seaweed-based viscose is a new idea. It could help clean oceans while making fabric.

Plant-based dyes are being used more often. They cut down on harmful chemicals in viscose production.

How to Choose High-Quality Viscose Products

When shopping for viscose items, look for smooth, even texture. High-quality viscose feels soft and silky to the touch. Check that seams are well-stitched and lie flat.

Examine the fabric closely. Good viscose has a slight sheen but shouldn’t look overly shiny or plastic-like. The color should be rich and uniform throughout.

Read product labels carefully. Quality viscose is often blended with other natural fibers like cotton or linen. This improves durability and shape retention.

Consider the weight and drape. Premium viscose has a fluid drape that moves gracefully. It shouldn’t feel flimsy or too lightweight.

Look for reputable brands known for using quality materials. Higher-end retailers often carry better viscose products.

Check care instructions. Good viscose can usually be machine washed on a gentle cycle. Very delicate items may require hand washing.

Feel the fabric between your fingers. High-grade viscose has a cool, smooth feel similar to silk. Avoid anything that feels rough or scratchy.

Certification Labels to Look For

When shopping for sustainable viscose in the US market, look for these important certification labels:

• FSC (Forest Stewardship Council): Guarantees that the wood pulp comes from responsibly managed forests. This is the gold standard for sustainable forestry.
• OEKO-TEX Standard 100: Certifies that the fabric has been tested for harmful substances and is safe for human use.
• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard): If the viscose is blended with organic fibers, this certification ensures organic status.
• LENZING™: Products using fibers from this company follow strict environmental standards.
• Canopy: Some brands partner with this organization to ensure they don’t source from ancient or endangered forests.

Where to Shop for Sustainable Viscose in the US

Major US retailers now offering sustainable viscose options include:

• Nordstrom: Their sustainable section features several brands using eco-friendly viscose.
• REI: Carries outdoor clothing made with sustainable man-made cellulosic fibers.
• Reformation: Available online and in stores across major US cities.
• Everlane: Offers transparent information about their viscose sourcing.
• Eileen Fisher: Committed to using TENCEL and other sustainable alternatives.
• Pact: Affordable basics made with sustainable materials.
• Amour Vert: Specializes in low-impact fabrics including eco-friendly viscose.

Frequently Asked Questions

Viscose fabric raises many questions about its properties, production, and care. People often wonder how it compares to other materials and what impact it has on the environment.

Conclusion

Viscose offers an appealing blend of comfort, versatility, and style that makes it a popular choice for clothing and home textiles. Its silk-like drape and breathability provide comfort in various climates, while its ability to take dye well makes it a designer favorite. However, as you’ve learned, not all viscose is created equal.

The environmental impact of conventional viscose production is significant, from deforestation concerns to chemical pollution. Fortunately, the textile industry is evolving, with sustainable viscose options becoming increasingly available to US consumers. By choosing FSC-certified viscose or innovative alternatives like TENCEL™ Lyocell, ECOVERO™, or products from brands committed to responsible sourcing, you can enjoy the benefits of viscose while minimizing negative environmental impacts.

When shopping for viscose products, remember to:

1. Look for certification labels like FSC, OEKO-TEX, or LENZING™ that verify sustainable sourcing and production
2. Support brands that prioritize transparency in their supply chains
3. Consider the full lifecycle of the product, including how you’ll care for it
4. Be willing to invest slightly more in sustainable options that will last longer and cause less harm
5. Follow proper care instructions to extend the life of your viscose items

The price difference between conventional and sustainable viscose reflects the true cost of responsible production. While sustainable options typically cost more upfront, they often provide better quality and longevity while protecting forests and communities affected by textile production.

As consumer demand for sustainable viscose continues to grow, more brands are committing to responsible sourcing. Major US retailers now offer sustainable viscose options, making it easier than ever to make environmentally conscious choices. By educating yourself about viscose’s properties, benefits, and limitations, you’re empowered to make purchasing decisions that align with both your style preferences and values.

Whether you’re buying a flowing summer dress, comfortable bedding, or elegant home textiles, viscose can be a wonderful choice when sourced and cared for properly. The future of viscose is promising, with ongoing innovations making production cleaner and products more durable. By supporting these advancements through your purchasing choices, you become part of the solution to creating a more sustainable fashion and textile industry.