To clean viscose linen, you should handle the fabric gently, opting for either hand washing or using a machine's delicate cycle with cold water.
Viscose is a beautiful fabric, often blended with linen for a luxurious feel, but it requires careful handling during cleaning as it can be susceptible to shrinkage and damage when wet.
Key Cleaning Methods for Viscose Linen
Based on expert advice (18-Jun-2023), the safest ways to clean viscose linen focus on minimizing stress on the fibers.
Hand Washing Viscose Linen
Hand washing is generally considered the safest method for cleaning viscose blends. It allows for greater control over the process, reducing the risk of shrinkage or damage.
- Fill a basin with cold water.
- Add a small amount of mild detergent suitable for delicates.
- Submerge the item and gently swish it in the water for a few minutes. Avoid rubbing vigorously.
- Rinse thoroughly with cold water until all detergent is gone.
- Important: When removing excess water, carefully press the item against the side of the basin or between clean towels. Do not twist or wring the fabric, as this can cause distortion and damage.
Machine Washing Viscose Linen
If you prefer machine washing, it's possible, but you must use specific settings to protect the fabric.
- Place the item in a mesh laundry bag to provide an extra layer of protection.
- Use the gentle or delicate cycle on your washing machine.
- Always wash using cold water. Hot water can cause significant shrinkage and damage to viscose fibers.
- Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent.
- Avoid using fabric softeners or bleach, which can degrade the fibers.
General Tips for Caring for Viscose Linen
Beyond washing, how you dry and finish viscose linen is also crucial.
- Drying: Air drying is highly recommended. Lay the item flat on a clean towel or hang it on a padded hanger away from direct sunlight or heat. Avoid using a tumble dryer, as the heat and agitation can cause shrinkage and damage.
- Ironing: If needed, iron the fabric while it is still slightly damp, or use a steam iron on a low setting. Iron on the reverse side or place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric to prevent scorching or shining.
Why Gentle Care is Important
Viscose is a manufactured regenerated cellulose fiber, which can lose some strength when wet, making it prone to stretching, shrinking, or losing shape if handled roughly. Combining it with linen, another natural fiber, creates a beautiful fabric that benefits greatly from the gentle care methods outlined above to maintain its appearance and longevity.
