We receive a lot of viscose rugs that maybe labeled as art silk, banana silk, bamboo silk, hemp silk, coconut silk, man-made silk etc, but they are all Ryan or fake silk rugs. These rugs normally are carpet/rug cleaners nightmare because there are many things that can go wrong in cleaning. But first let's get to know the texture.
What is viscose and where
did it come from?
Perhaps you have heard of viscose, or maybe you know it
better as Rayon. This is the term for viscose in the United States. But what
actually is it?
Viscose is a type of
rayon. Originally known as artificial silk, in the late 19th century, the term “rayon” came into effect in 1924.
Viscose is the generalized term for a regenerated manufactured fiber, made from
cellulose, obtained by the viscose process.
As a manufactured regenerated cellulose fiber, it is
neither truly natural (like cotton, wool or silk) nor truly synthetic (like
nylon or polyester) – it falls somewhere in between.
Viscose is a low-cost fabric, which is
popular; thanks to its myriad of qualities. It can be found in
cotton end uses, as well as luxurious velvet’s. Viscose can also be found
in feminine hygiene products, as well as tire cords.
Chemically, viscose resembles cotton, but it can also
take on many different qualities depending on how it is manufactured.
If a fiber is manufactured, then it is made from
cellulose or protein. Cellulose is a carbohydrate and the chief component in
the walls of plants. There is a difference between synthetic and manufactured
fibers, which makes a difference in their sustainability. Viscose is made from
wood pulp, making it a cellulosic fiber, like cotton or linen. It is often
regarded as only partially man-made.
Manufactured fibers derive from
naturally occurring cellulose, or protein, while synthetic fibers do not – they
are completely man-made. So, if they come from a natural source, then why don’t
they fall under the “natural fiber” category? Because they require
extensive processing to get to the finished result. Therefore, the category of
manufactured fibers is often referred to as “regenerated cellulose.”
Is viscose a sustainable fabric?
Because viscose is made from renewable plants, it is
frequently cited as being environmentally friendly, and sustainable. But is
this actually the case?
Viscose is the oldest manufactured fiber, first being
produced in 1883 as a cheap alternative to silk. Viscose production generally
begins with wood pulp, and there are several chemical and manufacturing
techniques to make it.
This is where some controversy comes into play.
To create viscose, and make it stand up to regular
wearing and washing, it must be chemically treated. The recycled wood pulp is
treated with chemicals such as caustic soda, ammonia, acetone, and sulphuric
acid. We therefore have a fabric, which comes from a natural and sustainable
source, but that is made with chemicals.
Because viscose is made from cellulose, there is an
argument to say that it is a more sustainable fiber than other synthetic
fibers, such as polyester.
Viscose has a myriad of
brilliant qualities, which makes it a popular fiber to work with. Thanks to its
characteristics, several industries use it, to create a wide range of products.
Some of the most beneficial characteristics of viscose include:
§ Versatile – it blends very well
with other fibers
§ Breathable
§ Drapes well
§ Excellent color retention
§ Highly absorbent
§ Very smooth
§ Does not trap body heat
§ Relatively light
§ Strong and robust
§ Soft and comfortable
§ Inexpensive
§ No static build up
These all sound great, but there are some slightly less positive
traits to viscose. However, none of these are particularly negative. A little
care during wearing and washing, will make these traits obsolete.
§ It can shrink when washed
§ Can wrinkle easily
§ Deteriorates with exposure to
light
§ Susceptible to mildew
§ Fibers can weaken when wet
Viscose: a misunderstood fabric?
When a fabric is not
labeled as “natural” then consumers can judge it harshly, without
any true understanding of the fabric. Viscose is probably the most
misunderstood of all fibers, manmade or natural. It is not a natural fiber, but
nor is it synthetic.-
In regards to the use of chemicals in the production of
viscose, as fabric technology advances, many manufacturers are making
considerable and positive efforts to ensure clean production. As we continue to
strive for a green-friendly world, increasing work is being put into the
sustainability of fibers such as viscose.
Viscose has many desirable qualities,
which makes it a wonderful fiber to work with in many ways. Because of its
unique versatility, many industries use viscose, from fashion, to the medical
profession, to everyday items in the home.
Viscose Fiber
An 8' x 10' Rug With Pet Stains Before Cleaning
After Professional Cleaning Photo
As I said these rugs are difficult to maintain, care for and clean, but we have made it and know to professionally clean them and make them a treasure from a trash.
Dr. Khosrow Sobhe (Dr. Kay)
Certified Rug Specialist (CRS)
Certified Rug Appraiser (CRA)
www.LosAngelesRugCleaning.com
www.RugIdea.com
15748 Arminta St.
Van Nuys, CA 91406
Tel. 310-770-9085
