Viscose is a popular material used in rugs and carpets. But what exactly is viscose? And why is it commonly used in rug manufacturing? In this comprehensive guide, as a professional custom rugs manufacturer, I’ll cover everything you need to know about viscose rugs.
An Overview of Viscose
Viscose is a man-made fabric that’s used to imitate silk. It’s sometimes referred to as “art silk” or “faux silk” in the rug industry.
The production process starts with wood pulp or bamboo cellulose. This cellulose is then treated with chemicals like carbon disulfide to produce long fibers.
These fibers are spun into yarns that create the plush, silk-like texture that viscose is known for.
So in short:
- Viscose starts as a plant cellulose
- It’s treated with chemicals to create fibers
- The fibers are spun into soft, silk-like yarns
Now let’s talk about why rug makers like to use viscose.
The Benefits of Viscose Rugs
There are a few key reasons why rug manufacturers use viscose:
Affordability
The main benefit of viscose is the affordable price tag.
Silk rugs can cost upwards of several thousand dollars even for smaller sizes. Viscose provides a luxurious silk-like texture at a fraction of the cost.
Appearance
Viscose is prized for its ability to mimic the look of pure silk. The fibers have the same smooth and shiny appearance.
Viscose also takes dye really well. So it’s easy for manufacturers to produce rugs in vibrant colors.
Softness
Rugs need to feel good underfoot. Viscose delivers on this front with its plush, velvety texture.
The fibers are smooth, soft, and comfortable to walk on barefoot.
So in many ways, viscose gives you the luxurious properties of silk for a more affordable price tag.
But it does have some downsides…
The Downsides of Viscose Rugs
While cheaper than silk, viscose rugs cost more than synthetic rugs made of nylon or polyester.
And despite the affordable price, viscose isn’t as durable as these synthetic options.
Fragility
The fibers that give viscose its silk-like smoothness also make it prone to damage.
Viscose rugs can’t handle a lot of foot traffic. The fibers will wear down and the rug will develop bald spots over time.
Excessive vacuuming can damage the yarns as well.
Moisture Damage
Liquids are the nemesis of viscose rugs.
Water and moisture causes viscose fibers to lose their strength. Any spills or accidents should be blotted and dried immediately. But even then, stains may be impossible to remove fully.
Cleaning Difficulties
Professional cleaning is almost a requirement for viscose rugs. The fibers can’t handle harsh scrubbing or chemicals.
Attempting to clean them on your own can accelerate wear and tear. Or even cause permanent water damage.
Ideal Uses for Viscose Rugs
Given the delicate nature of viscose, it’s best used in certain scenarios:
- Low-traffic areas like living rooms or bedrooms
- Rooms without pets or young kids
- Spaces without frequent spills (like kitchens or dining rooms)
Placing them in seldom-used formal living rooms or master suites is the ideal application.
Alternatively, use smaller viscose rugs as wall hangings to prevent wear underfoot.
Examples of Viscose Rug Styles
One of the benefits of viscose rugs is the multitude of shapes, sizes, and patterns available.
Viscose blends nicely with common rug materials like wool and cotton too. Here are some popular styles and blended you’re likely to come across:
Transitional Viscose Rugs
The most common aesthetic for viscose rugs is transitional. These rugs feature abstract shapes and muted neutral colors.
For example, brands like Rizzy Home produce transitional styles that combine viscose, cotton, and wool. The blended materials add durability while viscose offers sheen.
Shag and Flokati Viscose Rugs
Thick and plush shag or flokati rugs are also commonly made with viscose. The fibers gives these rug adde thickness and softness underfoot.
Docril is one manufacturer that makes wool and viscose blended flokatis. The added viscose provides smoother texture versus using 100% wool.
Vintage and Tribal Designs
Many handmade viscose rugs use tribal motifs and distressed vintage designs. These rugs give homes a one-of-a-kind aesthetic.
Brands like Anatolia Knots produce handmade flatweave viscose rugs with intricate tribal patterns. Although the weaving process makes them sturdier than other types of viscose rugs.
How to Care for Viscose Rugs
To make the most out of your viscose rug investment, proper care is essential. Here are some tips for keeping them looking beautiful:
- Frequently vacuum using gentle suction and with the beater bar turned off
- IMMEDIATELY blot (don’t rub!) any spills or liquids
- Avoid direct high heat or sunlight to prevent fading
- Consider treated with a fabric protector spray to repel minor spills
- Professionally dry clean when necessary using gentle, non-toxic cleaners
I know first-hand how irresistible that shimmery viscose rug can look when shopping for home decor. Use the advice above to decide if the pros outweigh the cons for your needs!
This covers everything you need to know about the fabric viscose and why it’s commonly used in luxurious rugs! Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions.