No, you should not wash viscose at 60 degrees Celsius. Washing viscose at such a high temperature can cause significant damage to the fabric, leading to shrinking, stretching, and loss of its original shape and drape.
Why High Temperatures Harm Viscose
Viscose is a unique semi-synthetic fiber known for its soft, silky texture and excellent drape, often used as a substitute for silk or cotton. However, it possesses characteristics that make it particularly vulnerable to high heat and aggressive washing:
- Highly Absorbent: Viscose fibers absorb water readily. While this makes it comfortable to wear, it also means the fibers become significantly weaker and more delicate when wet.
- Relatively Inelastic: Unlike some natural fibers that have more stretch, viscose has limited elasticity. When it absorbs water and expands, then is subjected to heat, it tends to contract irreversibly, leading to severe shrinkage and misshaping.
- Delicate When Wet: The combination of high absorbency and low elasticity makes viscose extremely fragile when saturated with water. Hot water exacerbates this fragility, causing the fibers to break down or distort.
Subjecting viscose to 60°C water can cause irreversible damage, compromising the garment's integrity and appearance.
The Ideal Way to Wash Viscose
To maintain the quality and extend the life of your viscose garments, gentle care is essential. The recommended approach is to use cold or lukewarm water.
Hand Washing (Recommended)
Hand washing is the safest and most effective method for cleaning viscose, especially for delicate items.
- Prepare the Water: Fill a clean basin or sink with cold or lukewarm water (maximum 20°C). Hot water should be avoided entirely.
- Add Detergent: Use a small amount of mild liquid detergent formulated for delicates. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
- Submerge and Swirl: Gently submerge the viscose item and swirl it around in the soapy water for a few minutes. Avoid scrubbing, twisting, or stretching the fabric.
- Rinse Thoroughly: Drain the soapy water and refill the basin with clean, cold water. Gently press the item to remove detergent residue. Repeat this process until all soap is gone and the water runs clear.
- Remove Excess Water: Carefully lift the item without wringing or twisting. Gently press it against the side of the basin or lay it flat on a clean, dry towel to absorb excess water.
Machine Washing (If Necessary)
If you must machine wash, follow these steps to minimize potential damage:
- Check Label: Always consult the garment's care label first.
- Use a Laundry Bag: Place the viscose item inside a mesh laundry bag to protect it from snagging or stretching during the wash cycle.
- Select Cycle: Choose the "delicate," "hand wash," or "gentle" cycle on your washing machine.
- Water Temperature: Use cold water to prevent shrinkage.
- Mild Detergent: Add a gentle detergent suitable for delicates.
- Avoid Overloading: Do not overload the machine, as this can increase friction and stress on the fabric.
Drying Viscose Safely
Proper drying is crucial to prevent stretching and distortion.
- Air Dry Flat: Gently reshape the garment to its original form and lay it flat on a clean, dry towel or a drying rack.
- Avoid Direct Heat: Keep viscose away from direct sunlight, radiators, or tumble dryers, as high heat can cause severe shrinkage and damage.
- No Tumble Drying: Tumble drying is highly discouraged for viscose, as it can cause irreversible shrinkage and damage the delicate fibers.
Ironing Viscose
If your viscose garment requires ironing:
- Low Heat: Use a low heat setting on your iron, or the "silk" or "rayon" setting if available.
- Inside Out: Iron the garment inside out to prevent shine marks.
- Damp Cloth: For best results, iron when the fabric is slightly damp, or use a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric.
Quick Viscose Care Guide
For easy reference, here's a summary of best practices:
| Care Aspect | Recommendation | Avoid At All Costs |
|---|---|---|
| Washing | Hand wash (preferred) or machine wash on gentle cycle | Hot water (above 20°C/68°F), aggressive scrubbing |
| Water Temp. | Cold or lukewarm (max 20°C/68°F) | 60°C or any hot water |
| Detergent | Mild, liquid detergent for delicates | Harsh chemicals, bleach |
| Drying | Air dry flat, reshape garment | Tumble drying, direct sunlight/heat |
| Ironing | Low heat, inside out, damp cloth or pressing cloth | High heat, direct ironing on dry fabric |
By following these guidelines, you can ensure your viscose clothing remains beautiful and wearable for a long time. For more detailed textile care instructions, always refer to the garment's specific care label or consult a comprehensive fabric care guide.
