Viscose – what is this material and what properties does it have?
In light of growing environmental awareness and the increasing popularity of natural fabrics, viscose is increasingly appearing among the favorite materials in the fashion and textile industries. Among other unfamiliar names such as polyamide, acrylic, polyester, and rayon, viscose is a common ingredient in many products. Few people realize which of these materials are natural and which are artificial or synthetic.
That's why we've created a series of blog posts to familiarize you with different types of materials. This will help you clear up any doubts about which fabrics are worth buying and which aren't. Today, we'll take a closer look at viscose and answer the question: what exactly is it and is it even a good material? Why is it gaining popularity and what are its properties? Together, we'll try to dispel these doubts and learn more about viscose. We invite you to read on!
Viscose – what is it?
Although the name viscose has been known for many years, the material itself remains a bit of a mystery to many. Many people wonder what viscose is. What is this material and what properties does it actually have? Is it worth buying, or should we steer clear? These are just some of the questions that arise in our minds. Let's try to answer them now and make the final decision about buying viscose clothing.
Viscose is a textile made from wood cellulose. Although it is a plant-based fiber, it is classified as a synthetic fabric. This is due to the chemical processing of natural raw materials, which gives them unique properties. The viscose production process involves dissolving cellulose in special chemical solutions. It is then spun into fibers and threads. Viscose fibers are very soft and pleasant to the touch, and are characterized by good absorbency and breathability.
Viscose is also a good dyeing material, allowing manufacturers to offer a wide variety of colors and patterns. This is also one of the reasons why they so readily choose it. In ethical clothing stores, you'll find viscose that's produced in accordance with environmental and social requirements and has all the necessary certifications. Therefore, it's worth learning more about its origins before purchasing.
---Viscose – fabric properties
What else is worth knowing about viscose? The properties of this fabric make it a popular choice for clothing production. Above all, viscose is characterized by its softness and delicacy, making clothes made from this material very pleasant to wear and non-irritating to the skin.
Furthermore, viscose is a material with good absorbent properties, meaning it absorbs moisture, keeping you dry and comfortable. This is especially important for clothes like blouses, shirts, and dresses that are worn close to the skin. Viscose is also a breathable and airy material. It allows for good air circulation regardless of the weather, making it especially suitable for hot days.
However, it's important to remember that viscose tends to wrinkle and shrink, which can affect the shape and appearance of clothes made from this material. Therefore, it's important to care for viscose properly and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. In a good ethical clothing store, you're sure to find high-quality viscose, ensuring your clothes will look like new for a long time.
Viscose – material composition
In the previous paragraphs, we've already touched on what viscose is made of. This material is made from 100% cellulose, a natural raw material, which is a key consideration for many people when choosing and purchasing new clothing. However, it's worth bearing in mind that the standard viscose production process uses various chemicals, such as dyes, which negatively impact the environment and workers' health. Therefore, at the ethical clothing store, we ensure that the viscose products we offer are produced in a manner that is both environmentally and employee-friendly.
It's also worth noting that some viscose garments may contain additional materials, such as elastane, which makes them more flexible and adapts better to the body. Before purchasing, always check the material composition to ensure the garment is made of high-quality and safe materials.
Viscose – opinions about the fabric
Opinions about viscose vary. Some love the material for its softness, delicacy, and comfort, while others criticize it for its static cling and tendency to shrink. However, it's safe to say that viscose is an increasingly popular choice in clothing production, which is why we're seeing more and more clothes made from this fabric on store shelves.
When buying new clothes, it's worth remembering that viscose, like many other materials, has its advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it's important to consider its properties and composition before purchasing a viscose garment to ensure you're choosing a top-quality product that's well-suited to your needs. Choosing a clothing material depends on your individual preferences, needs, and values. However, it's worth taking the time to understand the properties of different fabrics, including viscose, so you can make informed choices and choose products that best suit you.
---Viscose – frequently asked questions
We hope this article has given you a better understanding of viscose and its properties. If you'd like to learn even more about its properties, check out the questions and answers below, which will help you understand viscose no longer.
Is viscose warm?
If you're wondering whether viscose is warm, fortunately or unfortunately, the answer is no. Viscose is a breathable material that doesn't feel as warm as, for example, wool. Depending on the thickness and texture of the fabric, viscose clothing can be suitable for different seasons. Generally, viscose is a good option for warm days, as it's lightweight, airy, and provides a pleasant feeling of coolness in the summer.
Is viscose elastic?
This is another question that many people face when choosing clothes made from this fabric. Viscose itself isn't very elastic, but in some cases, elastane is added to the fabric to increase its stretch and fit. It's worth noting that elastane added to viscose can significantly improve comfort and freedom of movement while maintaining the material's stunning appearance and properties.
Why does viscose shrink?
Unfortunately, there's a slight downside to this material: viscose tends to shrink in the wash. To minimize the risk of viscose shrinkage, follow the washing and drying instructions for your garment. It's worth remembering that some viscose garments may require hand washing or delicate cycles. Above all, avoid washing at high temperatures.
Additionally, drying flat or hanging on a hanger can help maintain the fabric's original shape and size. It's also important to avoid high temperatures when ironing, as this can also contribute to shrinkage. Following these simple tips will help keep your viscose in good condition for longer.
Does viscose stretch?
As mentioned above, viscose lacks natural elasticity and doesn't stretch as easily as some other materials. If a viscose garment is stretchy, it's likely not due to the material's structure, but rather to the addition of elastane or another elastic fiber during production. This type of treatment can make the viscose more elastic, improving comfort and fit. Therefore, when choosing viscose garments, it's worth paying attention to their composition and labels indicating the elastane or other fiber content, especially if you're looking for greater stretch.
Does viscose wrinkle?
Viscose is a delicate fabric that tends to wrinkle, especially if stored improperly. To prevent wrinkling, it's recommended to store viscose garments on hangers or fold them to minimize wrinkling.
Viscose material advantages and disadvantages
Viscose, like any fabric, has its advantages and disadvantages. Its advantages include breathability and softness, making it comfortable to wear even on hot days. Furthermore, viscose is relatively easy to care for, as it dries quickly and, in most cases, requires no special treatment during washing. Compared to other fabrics, viscose is also relatively inexpensive and widely available in clothing stores.
However, viscose also has its downsides, which may discourage some from purchasing it. One of the fabric's biggest drawbacks is its tendency to shrink, meaning viscose garments can lose their shape after washing if the manufacturer's care instructions are not followed. Furthermore, viscose is a delicate fabric that tends to wrinkle, is difficult to iron, and is prone to static electricity.
If you're interested in viscose and want to learn more about popular materials, we invite you to read our other blog posts. You can also visit our online store now, where you'll find a wide range of clothing made from viscose, as well as other eco-friendly materials such as linen, bamboo, and Supima cotton. All our designs are crafted with the utmost care and environmentally friendly attention, so you can enjoy fashionable and comfortable clothes for years to come. Visit our website to explore our offerings and expand your wardrobe with unique pieces today.
