What is this?  Viscose is a fiber made from regenerated wood cellulose. Viscose rayon is structurally similar to cotton, which is almost pure cellulose.  Making viscose begins with wood pulp, and manufacturers often use different sources such as bamboo. The wood cellulose is treated with caustic soda, and then allowed to age, before being treated again with caustic soda and carbon disulphide. Manufacturers spin the resulting product through various mechanisms and wash it through water baths and similar methods. It is then extracted out of one or more slits to produce threads or other forms necessary in different applications. Since it begins with wood, it is not a synthetic material.  It dyes easily, it does not shrink when heated, and it is biodegradable.

It is used in many apparel end-uses, often blended with other fibers, and in hygienic disposables where its high absorbency is of great advantage. In filament yarn form it is excellent material for linings. Most people do not know this fiber is used in many household products we use every day.

Some examples:

  • ·         Rayon
  • ·         Bed sheets
  • ·         Clothes
  • ·         Table clothes
  • ·         Rugs
  • ·         Carpets
  • ·         Furniture Slip Covers
  • ·         Drapes
  • ·         Some types of Tape
  • ·         Cellophane Wrap
  • ·         Some medical equipment

Viscose drapes and swings beautifully and the material is softer than cotton and more springy than silk. It is comfortable to wear and is great for dyeing. Silky in appearance and to the touch, viscose material tends to breathe the same way as cotton fabrics.  Linen fabric is very durable and strong.  An interesting fact is that it is stronger when wet.

•Linen fabric is also abrasion resistant as well as resistant to moths and carpet beetles

•Linen is a highly absorbent fabric and can rapidly lose water, which is good for summers as it can efficiently deal with perspiration.

One disadvantage to textile products made with rayon is that the items can often wrinkle easily.  The development of viscose has made it possible for many people to enjoy a wide array of quality textiles in their homes, without paying a lot of money for a luxurious look and feel. These garments often require less cleaning than some other types of cloth.