Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink? If Yes, then How to Avoid

Last Updated on March 9, 2023

Discover Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink? Bamboo viscose has become increasingly popular due to its soft texture and excellent moisture-wicking abilities. It’s also considered an eco-friendly option since it’s made from a renewable resource. But when washing this material, many people are still determining what to expect and how the fibers may react.

One question that often arises with bamboo viscose fabric is whether or not it will shrink. If you have recently purchased bamboo viscose clothing or are considering it, it’s essential to understand what precautions you can take when washing this material.

In this article, we will explore whether or not bamboo viscose shrinks and discuss some tips for keeping your clothing looking great after every wash.

Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink?

Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink?

According to a research from TheSewingStuffs team, we can say, Yes, bamboo viscose does have some tendency to shrink when washed. Wash bamboo viscose in cold water; machine drying on low or air-dry is recommended for best results. Delicate cycles and using a garment bag may also help reduce the potential for shrinkage.

In addition, proper care instructions should be followed carefully to ensure the fabric retains its original shape and size over time.

Why Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink?

Bamboo viscose shrinks because it is a rayon-based product that contracts when exposed to moisture and heat. The material is water-absorbent and delicate, so the fibers become damaged when exposed to hot temperatures from heated dryers or irons. It causes shrinkage, which can be permanent if the fabric is not appropriately handled. To avoid this, it’s best to handwash bamboo viscose fabrics and air dry them.

Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink in the Dryer?

Yes, bamboo viscose can shrink when put in a dryer. It is best to reduce the risk of shrinking, hanging, or laying your garments flat to air-dry instead of machine-drying them. After washing, remove your clothes from the washer before going into the dryer and quickly reshape them by hand. 

Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink in the Dryer

Additionally, be sure to use a low-temperature setting when drying the garments and remove them from the dryer immediately at the end of the cycle. Following these guidelines will help reduce any potential shrinkage in bamboo viscose materials.

How Many Sizes Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink?

It depends on the bamboo viscose fabric you use; however, bamboo viscose generally shrinks from 4-7% when washed or dried. To ensure you are getting the best fit and to account for shrinkage, it’s important to pre-wash your fabric before cutting and sewing. The purchased fabric should include a care label to provide more specific information about achieving the best results.

Can You Wash Viscose Without Shrinking?

Yes, you can wash viscose without shrinking it. The best way to do this is by using a gentle cycle on your washing machine and cold water, as hot or warm water may cause the fabric to shrink. Additionally, make sure to tumble dry viscose on a low setting or lay it flat to dry. Taking these steps should keep your viscose fabrics looking like new!

How to Avoid Bamboo Viscose Shrinking

Bamboo viscose is a popular fabric choice thanks to its natural breathability and comfort. However, it can sometimes be challenging to care for this type of fabric due to its tendency to shrink when washed. To prevent shrinking your bamboo viscose fabric items, here’s some advice on how to take the best possible care of them:

  1. Wash in Cold Water – One of the most important things you can do to avoid shrinking your bamboo viscose clothes is to wash them in cold water. Hot water may cause excess shrinkage, so it’s best to wash all bamboo viscose fabrics in cold water and never hotter than 30 degrees Celsius.                                          
  2. Don’t Skip Pre-Washing – Pre-washing fabrics before making more oversized items from them is also crucial to avoiding shrinkage. It will ensure that you get consistent results over time and better-quality projects with each batch of fabric you make.
  3. Line Dry or Drip Dry – Instead of drying items made from bamboo viscose fabric in the dryer, line drying or drip drying is always recommended when possible as it will help reduce excess shrinkage, like hot air drying can do with some delicate fabrics like this one.                              
  4. Iron Clothes Inside Out – Ironing is not always necessary, but if wrinkles need smoothing out after washing and drying, be sure to iron inside out on the lowest setting possible and use steam sparingly! It should help keep your clothes looking great for longer by preventing too much heat from building up near any vulnerable seams or stitches, which could easily stretch or warp if exposed to too long and hot temperatures during ironing sessions.                               
  5. Use Mild Detergents – When washing bamboo viscose clothing, use a mild detergent without any fragrances, as solid scents might not only irritate those with sensitive skin but can also interfere with the natural fibers of the garment, which could lead to additional shrinkage over time or weaken their ability to properly hold shape even after regular washings (although most products made using this specific material should still retain their original size).
  6. Handwash Gently – If hand washing rather than machine washing seems like a better option to avoid shrinking your clothes, go ahead! Remember that this delicate handling means taking extra time when washing items and being mindful of pressure applied during agitation (since it can also contribute to more significant decay over several washes).
  7. Remove from washer ASAP – Once done washing, quickly remove any items made from Bamboo Viscose Fabric before excess moisture builds up near vulnerable feathers leading back directly into more shrinkage woes!
  8. Read Care Labels – Last, remember what those handy little care labels say and follow the instructions printed there regardless – manufacturers know best how their product needs to be taken care of. So consider the directions given there first, then see what additional steps are necessary depending on particular needs or environment faced each laundry day. They will steer you right!

2 thoughts on “Does Bamboo Viscose Shrink? If Yes, then How to Avoid”

  1. I’ve been increasingly drawn to items made from viscose. Its softness and breathability make it ideal for our scorching, humid summers. Strangely, I haven’t seen much discussion about viscose here. I’m wondering, does anyone else appreciate its comfortable texture, or is it simply not readily available where you live? I’d love to hear your thoughts! Thanks a lot!

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