What Happens When You Put Viscose in the Dryer?

Viscose fabric, known for its silk-like softness and beautiful drape, is a popular choice in fashion. However, many individuals are unaware of the potential repercussions of drying this delicate material in a dryer. The conversation surrounding viscose often involves its eco-friendliness, comfort, and stylishness. Still, understanding how to properly care for viscose, particularly in the context of dryer use, is crucial to maintaining its integrity and longevity. This article delves into what happens when you put viscose in the dryer and offers tips on keeping your viscose garments looking their best.

Understanding Viscose: The Basics

Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose, primarily sourced from wood pulp. Often referred to as rayon, viscose is known for its breathability, smooth texture, and vibrant colors. It offers a luxurious feel at a more accessible price point than silk. However, its unique composition also presents challenges in terms of care.

The Structure of Viscose

Viscose fibers are created through a chemical process that transforms cellulose into a usable textile. The structure of viscose gives it distinct characteristics:

• Softness: Viscose is soft and comfortable against the skin, making it a popular choice for clothing.
• Moisture Absorbency: Viscose can absorb moisture effectively, which keeps the wearer cool in warm conditions.

While these traits make viscose garments appealing, they also mean that they are sensitive to heat and moisture.

The Dangers of Using a Dryer on Viscose

When you toss a viscose garment into the dryer, several reactions can occur, leading to damage and undesirable outcomes. Here are the primary concerns:

Shrinking

One of the most significant risks of drying viscose in the dryer is shrinkage. Due to the construction of the fibers, heat can cause the fabric to contract. You might initially be surprised by how much your garment has shrunk after just one cycle. It is somewhat similar to the experience of washing wool—once the fibers shrink, they become nearly impossible to stretch back to their original size.

Loss of Shape

In addition to shrinking, viscose can lose its intended shape when subjected to the heat and tumbling action of a dryer. The fabric can become warped, leading to garments that fit awkwardly. Over time, consistent exposure to a dryer can result in long-term shape disruptions, particularly in structured pieces like blouses or dresses.

Color Fading

Viscose fibers are often dyed with vibrant colors, but high heat can cause the dye to fade, resulting in a dull appearance over time. Unlike natural fibers, viscose doesn’t hold dye as firmly under high temperatures, making it susceptible to color loss. This color fading can ruin the aesthetic of your favorite garments.

Increased Wrinkling

Another downside of using a dryer with viscose is that it tends to wrinkle significantly once taken out. Viscose’s smooth surface can create creases that are hard to remove without ironing, which many people would like to avoid. The drying cycle can exacerbate this problem, leading to fashion disasters that require extra care.

Proper Care for Viscose Fabrics

To extend the life of your viscose garments and keep them looking pristine, it’s essential to know how to care for them correctly. Here are some tips on the best practices for washing and drying viscose.

Washing Viscose

Hand Washing

The safest method of cleaning viscose is to hand wash it. Here’s how to do it:

1. Fill a basin with cold water.
2. Add a mild detergent recommended for delicate fabrics.
3. Submerge the viscose item and gently agitate the water.
4. Allow the garment to soak for about 10 to 15 minutes.
5. Rinse thoroughly with cold water.

Machine Washing

If you prefer to use a washing machine, follow these guidelines:

• Place the garment inside a mesh laundry bag to protect it.
• Select the gentle cycle and use cold water.
• Use a mild detergent specifically designed for delicate fabrics.

Drying Viscose

The most critical aspect of caring for viscose is drying. Here are the recommended methods:

Air Drying

The best way to dry viscose is to air dry it. Here’s how:

1. After washing, gently squeeze excess water from the fabric. Avoid wringing it out as this can distort the shape.
2. Lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel or hang it on a padded hanger away from direct sunlight to avoid fading.

Using the Dryer: The Right Way

If you must use a dryer, set it to low heat and use the delicate cycle. However, it’s still recommended to check the care label and preferably avoid this option altogether.

Repairing Damaged Viscose Garments

Even with the best intentions, garments can get damaged. If your viscose piece has shrunk or become misshapen, consider the following options for damage control:

Stretching Techniques

If your viscose garment has shrunk, you can try gentle stretching:

1. Wet the garment with lukewarm water.
2. Gently tug at the areas that need expansion. Use care as excessive force can damage the fibers.
3. Allow it to air dry while lying flat.

Professional Alterations

For significant damages, consider taking the garment to a professional tailor. They can help restore it to a more desirable shape or resize the item to fit you once again.

Conclusion

Viscose is a beautiful, comfortable fabric that requires thoughtful care to preserve its integrity and appearance. Tucking your viscose garments into the dryer can lead to significant damage, including shrinking, loss of shape, fading, and increased wrinkling. To keep your pieces looking fresh and prolong their lifespan, opt for hand washing and air drying whenever possible.

To enjoy the luxurious feel of viscose without the downside, remember to follow these care tips: treat the fabric gently, avoid heat exposure, and watch out for fading over time. Protecting your investments in viscose clothing can result in a wardrobe that looks as good as new, wear after wear.

What is viscose fabric?

Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made from regenerated cellulose fiber, primarily derived from wood pulp. It is valued for its soft, silky texture and breathability, making it a popular choice for clothing and household textiles. Viscose has properties similar to those of natural fibers like cotton but can be produced in a variety of finishes and styles.

Despite its attractive qualities, viscose can behave unpredictably when it comes to care. Depending on how it’s processed, viscose can be prone to shrinking, wrinkling, and may lose its shape when exposed to certain conditions, such as high heat in dryers.

Can you put viscose in the dryer?

Putting viscose in the dryer is generally not recommended. The high heat can cause the fibers to shrink or change shape, which can ruin the garment. While some viscose blends may tolerate lower heat settings, it’s safer to avoid the dryer altogether to maintain the integrity of the fabric.

Instead, it’s best to air dry viscose items. Hanging them up or laying them flat allows the fabric to retain its shape and texture, preventing potential damage that could occur from using the dryer.

What happens to viscose when it’s dried in the dryer?

When viscose is placed in the dryer, the heat can cause the fibers to shrink, sometimes up to 10-20%. This shrinking can distort the fit of the garment and make it unwearable. The high heat may also cause the fabric to become misshapen, lose its softness, or develop a rough texture.

In addition, excessive tumbling in the dryer can lead to increased wrinkles or even damage to the fabric’s surface. As viscose is delicate, it may also have a greater tendency to snag or tear when subjected to the agitation of a drying cycle.

How can I dry viscose correctly?

To properly dry viscose items, the safest method is to air dry. After washing, gently squeeze out excess water without twisting or wringing the fabric, as this can lead to further damage. You can lay the garment flat on a clean, dry towel or hang it on a clothesline or drying rack away from direct sunlight.

If air-drying feels impractical, consider using a dryer on a low heat setting with a delicate cycle, but even then, monitor the process closely. It’s advisable to remove the item from the dryer while it is still slightly damp to prevent overheating or potential shrinkage.

Can I iron viscose items after drying?

Yes, you can iron viscose, but it’s essential to take precautions. Use a low heat setting and place a thin cloth between the iron and the viscose fabric to prevent direct contact. This helps avoid any scorching or shiny marks that can occur when working with delicate fibers.

It’s also important to iron while the fabric is still slightly damp, as this makes it easier to remove wrinkles without applying too much pressure. If the fabric has completely dried, consider using a steam setting or lightly spritzing it with water before ironing.

Are there any alternatives to drying viscose?

Yes, there are several effective alternatives to drying viscose that minimize the risk of damage. Aside from air drying, you can also gently roll the garment in a towel to absorb excess water before laying it flat to dry. This method helps to eliminate moisture without subjecting the fabric to harsh drying conditions.

Another alternative is to use a garment steamer to remove wrinkles instead of ironing. The gentle steam will relax the fibers without causing damage, making it a great option for ensuring your viscose garments maintain their shape and softness.

How to wash viscose fabric properly?

Washing viscose requires careful consideration to keep the fabric in good condition. Always check the care label for specific instructions, as some viscose items may require hand washing or dry cleaning. If machine washing, choose a gentle cycle with cold water to minimize stress on the fibers.

It’s advisable to use a mild detergent designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid bleach and fabric softeners, as these can damage the viscose fibers. After washing, handle the fabric carefully to remove excess water without twisting, ensuring it retains its shape.

Is viscose environmentally friendly?

Viscose has a mixed reputation in terms of environmental impact. On one hand, it is derived from renewable resources such as wood, which can be sustainably sourced. However, the chemical processes involved in converting wood pulp into viscose can be harmful to the environment if not managed responsibly.

Many manufacturers now employ more eco-friendly methods in producing viscose, leading to developments in sustainable practices. If you are looking for an environmentally conscious option, consider seeking out brands that use sustainably sourced materials and better production processes.