Viscose rugs have become hugely popular in recent years. With their affordable price tag and luxurious silk-like appearance, it’s easy to see the appeal. But is viscose really a good material for rugs?
The truth is, viscose is controversial. This man-made fiber comes with some big pros, including its softness and wide range of styles. However, viscose also has some major downsides when used in rugs and carpets. It lacks durability, stains easily, and requires careful maintenance.
So is viscose a good rug material? As a professional custom rugs manufacturer, I will share an in-depth look at the pros and cons so you can decide for yourself.
What is Viscose Exactly?
Before weighing up the pros and cons, it helps to understand exactly what viscose is and how it’s made.
Viscose starts life as cellulose, derived from wood pulp or cotton. The cellulose goes through an intensive chemical process using harsh solvents like carbon disulfide. It results in a viscous liquid that can be pushed through tiny holes to create long filaments, similar to silk.
So while viscose starts from natural sources, the manufacturing process is far from natural. That’s why you’ll often hear it called “man-made”, “artificial” or “fake” silk.
Other common names for viscose used in rugs include rayon, bamboo silk, and banana silk. But it’s chemically the same fiber.
The viscose production process is also notoriously bad for the environment. Factories have been shut down all over the world for breaching safety standards. And the solvents used are highly toxic.
So when it comes to sustainability, viscose gets a big fat F. Silk, wool and cotton are far greener options.
Now that you know what viscose is, let’s look at some of the reasons people choose it for their rugs and carpets.
The Pros of Viscose Rugs
Affordable Luxury Look
The number one reason homeowners and interior designers opt for viscose rugs is the affordable price. Viscose costs a fraction of natural silk, which is prized for its opulent appearance and soft sheen.
So if your budget won’t stretch to silk but you love the look, a viscose rug offers faux luxury for less.
Deliciously Soft
Another major pro is the heavenly softness of viscose. The fibers have a smooth, almost fluid feel, much like silk. But unlike silk, the fibers are also highly absorbent, adding to the velvety texture.
So if you’re looking to add cloud-like comfort underfoot, it’s easy to see why a viscose rug appeals. The delicacy and give of the fibers make viscose rugs perfect for lounging around on.
Range of Styles
From sumptuous shag to intricate dhurries, viscose rugs now come in almost any style imaginable. So it’s easy to find a viscose rug to complement your chosen decor.
Vintage-look distressed viscose rugs are also popular for adding character to modern spaces. And the fiber’s versatility means viscose blends well with other materials like wool and cotton too.
The Cons of Viscose Rugs
Viscose undoubtedly has some enticing qualities that explain its popularity. But before you decorate your home with this fiber, it pays to understand the downsides too.
Not Durable
One of the biggest issues with viscose is the lack of durability. Put simply, viscose fibers are weak. So weak in fact that the industry refers to them as “disposable”.
The low resilience of viscose means rugs and carpets made from it wear out incredibly fast. High foot traffic areas are particularly problematic. Viscosepile crushes down rapidly under the repeated impact of feet, causing unsightly floor mats to appear.
Pet claws and children’s shoes can also easily snag and unpick viscose rug threads. And any pulls quickly lead to bigger holes.
Essentially, don’t expect a viscose rug to last longer than 2-3 years with average use. Place it in a high traffic area at your peril.
Tricky Cleaning
Spills and stains are inevitable with rugs and carpets. But viscose turns both into a nightmare.
The main issue is that viscose fibers readily absorb liquid. So any spilled drinks, pet accidents or cleaning solutions spread rapidly through the rug.
And therein lies the problem. Viscose has a tendency to yellow or brown when wet. Plus, moisture causes shrinkage and potential mold issues.
On top of that, viscose fibers lose their dye easily. So spillages often leave permanent pale marks where the color has bled out.
High Maintenance
To get the best out your viscose while it lasts requires diligent care. That means keeping it scrupulously clean and away from moisture, sunlight, heat and anything abrasive.
Unfortunately, that level of maintenance just isn’t practical in most homes. Accidental spills or pet mishaps can and do happen. And quick wipe-ups invariably lead to stains.
You’ll also need to vacuum gently but frequently to suck up shedding fibers and reduce crushing. So if high maintenance isn’t your thing, skip the fussy viscose rug.
The Verdict: Only Choose Viscose if You Don’t Mind Replacing Your Rug
When weighing up the pros and cons, my verdict on using viscose for rugs is clear. The delicate nature and tricky care requirements make viscose a poor choice for floor coverings.
Yes, viscose rugs may initially save you money compared to investment pieces made of wool or silk. But the rapid replacement rate means they don’t work out much cheaper in the long run.
And given the negative environmental impacts of producing viscose, natural fibers like jute and seagrass are greener alternatives. Though these don’t mimic the opulence of silk as well viscose does.
That said, viscose rugs can work reasonably well in guest bedrooms or other very low traffic zones. Just don’t expect them to last more than a couple of years before needing replacement.
Ultimately, I’d only choose a viscose rug if you genuinely don’t mind throwing it away and buying new when it starts looking worn and tired in 18-24 months. For most homes, there are better rug materials out there.