Here’s how to wash viscose fabric in the washing machine:

1. 1. Separate your viscose from heavy fabrics
2. 2. Put your viscose items in a mesh laundry bag
3. 3. Use cold water
4. 4. Select the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine
5. 5. Use an enzyme-based laundry detergent pod
6. 6. Lay flat to air-dry

Viscose has earned its place in your wardrobe for its sleek look, smooth feel, and enviable drape. But like anything that walks the line between luxury and practicality, it demands attention.

Before you get your hands sudsy, let's get acquainted with this fabric. Viscose, often dubbed as rayon, is a semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose—think wood pulp transformed into a textile that's soft and breathable. It's the love child of nature and science, giving us a fabric that's both affordable and feels like high-end silk.

But with great softness comes great responsibility. That’s why we created this ultimate guide to washing viscose fabric the right way.

1. Separate Your Viscose from Heavy Fabrics

Viscose is a delicate fabric, and it doesn't play well with heavy materials. Tossing it in the wash with towels, jeans, or hoodies is like sending a featherweight boxer into the ring with a heavyweight champ—it's bound to get roughed up. Heavy fabrics can cause friction, snagging, or even tearing your viscose garments.

If you want to keep your viscose soft and in one piece, separate it from the bulkier fabrics in your laundry load. By grouping your viscose with lighter materials like silk or lace, you'll give it the cushy, protective space it needs to thrive in the wash.

2. Put Your Viscose Garments in a Mesh Laundry Bag

A mesh laundry bag is like a VIP bouncer at the club, keeping your clothes safe from the chaos of the wash cycle. Without this step, your delicate viscose items risk getting snagged, stretched, or caught up in the machine’s drum.

The mesh bag keeps everything contained and protected, reducing friction while still letting your clothes get cleaned. It's a small step that makes a big difference, especially when you're dealing with something as fragile as viscose.

3. Use Cold Water

Hot water might feel like the natural choice for getting a deep clean, but when it comes to viscose, it's not a good idea. Heat can cause viscose to shrink, distort, and lose its original shape, which is the opposite of what we want. Instead, go with cold water to keep your garments in top condition.

Cold water cleans gently, helps preserve the fabric’s color, and minimizes the risk of shrinkage, meaning your viscose pieces stay as fresh and soft as the day you bought them.

4. Select the Delicate or Gentle Cycle on Your Washing Machine

A regular wash cycle can be way too harsh for viscose, with faster spin speeds and more intense agitation that can stretch or distort the fabric. Instead, choose the delicate or gentle cycle on your washing machine.

These settings are slower and gentler on the fabric, using lower spin speeds and minimal agitation to preserve the integrity of your viscose. It’s like giving your clothes a soothing bath rather than tossing them into a spin cycle battle royale.

5. Use an Enzyme-Based Laundry Detergent Pod

Enzyme-based detergent pods are ideal for viscose since they break down stains and odors without being harsh on the fabric. For example, Laundry Sauce pods have a proprietary blend of bioenzymes that break down tough stains at a molecular level. We’re talking about everything from the aftermath of a hot yoga session to Wine Wednesday spills. This means your clothes get cleaned effectively, even in cold water, without the need for harsh chemicals.

On top of their gentle cleaning power, Laundry Sauce pods feature fragrances created by the world’s top perfumers like Australian Sandalwood and French Saffron to keep your clothes smelling as irresistible as they look.

6. Lay Flat to Air Dry

When it comes time to dry your viscose pieces, don’t even think about tossing them in the dryer. The heat and tumbling can lead to shrinkage, misshaping, or even permanently wrinkling your favorite garments. Instead, give your viscose the royal treatment by laying it flat to air dry.

Gently press out any excess water (but don’t wring or twist), and then lay the garment on a clean, dry towel, reshaping it to its original form. Air drying is the best way to preserve your viscose's shape, and it also keeps the fabric's softness intact.

Plus, air drying maximizes the longevity and intensity of your Laundry Sauce fragrance.

Common Questions About Washing Viscose Fabric

Let’s address some common questions about viscose so you're in the know.

Can You Put Viscose in the Washing Machine?

Yes, you can put viscose in the washing machine—but with care. Use cold water, the delicate cycle, and a mesh laundry bag to protect the fabric and keep it in shape.

How Often Should You Wash Viscose Clothing?

Viscose clothing doesn’t need to be washed after every wear. Give it a couple of wears before throwing it in the wash, unless it’s visibly dirty or has a lingering odor.

Does Viscose Shrink When Washed?

Viscose can shrink if you wash it in hot water or dry it with high heat. To avoid this, always wash in cold water and air dry to maintain the fabric's size and shape.

Can You Put Viscose in the Dryer?

No, avoid the dryer at all costs. The heat can cause shrinkage and damage. Instead, lay your viscose flat to air dry.

How Do You Get Wrinkles Out of Viscose Fabric?

To get wrinkles out of viscose, gently steam the fabric or use an iron on a low heat setting with a pressing cloth to avoid scorching.