RIANI Viscose Care Guide

Viscose is a fabric with a particularly soft feel and a flowing drape. The fibre is derived from cellulose and combines natural origins with technically refined processing. The result is a fabric that feels pleasantly cool against the skin whilst also having a subtle, elegant appearance.

A characteristic feature of viscose is its natural drape. Fabrics drape softly, follow the silhouette and never look stiff. This quality is particularly evident in dresses, blouses and wide-leg trousers.

To ensure that viscose retains its shape and texture, it is important to look after it carefully. High-quality fabrics are often characterised by a uniform texture, a more structured drape and greater durability over several washes. With the right care, the fabric remains attractive in the long term and is comfortable to wear. As well as traditional viscose, there are also more advanced variants such as ECOVERO™ or Lyocell, which are produced in a more resource-efficient manner. Regardless of this, viscose is highly versatile and particularly well-suited to situations where lightness and freedom of movement are required.

What should you bear in mind when washing viscose?

Viscose should be washed gently. When dry, the fabric is stable, but when wet it is more delicate and prone to losing its shape.

Many items of clothing can be machine-washed, provided the care label permits this. A gentle or delicate wash cycle at a low temperature is recommended. A mild detergent is sufficient to clean the fabric without putting unnecessary strain on the fibres.

Avoid mechanical stress

It is important to minimise mechanical stress. A low spin speed helps to preserve the shape. For delicate fabrics or intricate cuts, a laundry bag can provide additional protection. Alternatively, hand washing is also an option.

Drying properly

After washing, viscose should not be wrung out. It is better to gently reshape the garment and leave it to air-dry – ideally on a hanger or laid flat, depending on the cut. It is always essential to check the care label, particularly for blended fabrics or intricately crafted items.

How should viscose garments be ironed?

Viscose is easy to smooth out, but it does require a bit of care. Excessively high temperatures can damage the fibres, so the iron should be set to a low to medium setting.

Viscose is best ironed whilst the fabric is still slightly damp or using steam. This helps to smooth out creases more quickly and evenly.

Tip for delicate surfaces

For more delicate fabrics, it is advisable to turn the garment inside out or place a cloth between the fabric and the iron. Alternatively, a steamer can be used to preserve the drape of the fabric without applying direct pressure.

When viscose items need to be dry-cleaned

Not every viscose garment is suitable for washing at home. For delicate fabrics, more complex cuts or combinations of materials, professional cleaning may be advisable.

This applies in particular to fabrics blended with silk or wool, textured fabrics, or items with intricate details. Water and movement can cause the material to change or lose its shape. Even in the case of heavy soiling, dry cleaning is often the better choice, as it is tailored more specifically to the material in question.

The care label is always the key factor. It provides the most reliable guidance on how a garment should be cared for. By following these instructions, you can avoid unnecessary damage and maintain the garment’s quality in the long term.

Types of viscose and their properties

Viscose comes in a range of different qualities, which can vary significantly depending on how it is processed.

Classic viscose

Classic viscose is soft, smooth and has a flowing drape. It is particularly suitable for loose-fitting clothing that allows for movement.

Modal and Lyocell

Modal and Lyocell are among the more advanced variants. They are often slightly more dimensionally stable, have a more uniform surface and are generally more durable.

Textured viscose fabrics

Textured fabrics, such as those with a crinkled or crepe-like finish, add depth to the material whilst being less prone to visible creases. This makes them particularly practical for everyday wear.

Viscous mixtures

Viscose is also often combined with other fibres. Blends with cotton, linen or elastane can provide additional strength or elasticity without compromising the soft drape.