Viscose is soft and drapes well (see how rayon feels and whether viscose is breathable), but it creases easily and can be marked by heat or water. You can usually iron it, as long as you keep the heat low and work gently. Always check the care label first, since finishes and blends vary.
Can you iron viscose?
In most cases, yes. Viscose is a regenerated cellulose fibre, and garments made of it are commonly ironed on a low or silk setting. Some labels say do not iron, and some advise against steam, so the label on your garment takes priority over general advice. If you are unsure, test on a hidden area, such as the inside of a hem.
Why viscose wrinkles
Viscose is made from plant cellulose that is chemically processed into fibre. The fibres do not spring back well after being folded or crushed, particularly when damp, so viscose tends to hold creases from sitting, packing or washing. Our guide to whether viscose stretches covers how the fabric can also sag and lose shape. Blending with other fibres can change how much it wrinkles.
Best iron setting for viscose
Use a low heat setting, often labelled silk or synthetic on the iron’s dial, or the one-dot setting on the care symbol. Too much heat can scorch viscose or leave shiny patches. If the iron has a steam function, it is safest to switch it off at first, because water can leave marks on some viscose fabrics. If you want to use steam, try it on a hidden area to see how the fabric reacts.
How to iron viscose step by step
- Check the label for heat and steam instructions.
- Set the iron low and let it reach temperature. Make sure the soleplate is clean.
- Turn the garment inside out. This protects prints and dark colors, and reduces the risk of shine on the visible side.
- Iron while slightly damp if you can. Viscose responds best to a little moisture, for example straight after washing.
- Use a pressing cloth. A thin, clean piece of cotton or muslin between the iron and the fabric adds protection. Avoid using a synthetic cloth, which could melt.
- Use quick, gentle passes. Do not press hard or leave the iron sitting on one spot, and lift it frequently.
- Hang the garment straight away so it cools in shape and does not pick up new wrinkles.
Avoiding shine and water marks
Shine usually comes from heat and pressure on the right side of the fabric, so ironing inside out and using a pressing cloth helps. Water marks can appear when droplets from a spray bottle or steam dry unevenly. If you want to dampen the fabric, a fine, even mist is better than spots of water, and testing first is wise.
Blends and special finishes
Viscose is often blended with cotton, polyester, elastane or wool. The most heat-sensitive fibre in the blend generally sets the maximum safe temperature, so in a viscose-polyester blend, use the lower setting. Embellishments, sequins, prints and linings also need extra care. For a broader look at different fabrics, see our ironing guide by fabric type.
How to get wrinkles out of viscose without an iron
- Hang it in a steamy bathroom. Light creases often relax in the humidity of a hot shower, if you keep the garment out of direct water.
- Use a handheld steamer on the gentlest setting, if the label allows steam, and hold it slightly away from the fabric. Test on a hidden area first.
- Smooth by hand when damp. After washing, shake the garment out, smooth seams and panels with your hands, and hang it on a well-shaped hanger.
- Let it dry flat or hung properly, which prevents creases forming from bunching.
Can viscose go in the dryer?
Check the label. Many viscose garments are labelled for gentle washing and drying flat or hanging, because heat and tumbling can cause shrinkage (see do synthetic fabrics shrink, which also covers rayon) and further creasing. Viscose can also be weaker when wet, so wringing or twisting is best avoided. If the label permits tumble drying, use a low heat and remove the garment while slightly damp.
Preventing wrinkles in the first place
- Wash on a gentle cycle, or by hand if the label advises.
- Do not overload the machine, so garments have room to move.
- Remove clothes from the washer promptly and shake them out.
- Hang to dry on a suitable hanger, rather than leaving garments in a pile.
- Store on hangers, or fold loosely, rather than packing tightly.
Frequently asked questions
Can you iron 100% viscose fabric?
Usually, on a low setting, inside out, and with a pressing cloth. Always follow the garment’s care label.
What is the best ironing setting for viscose?
A low setting, such as the silk or synthetic position, is the common recommendation. Start low and increase only if needed, testing on a hidden area.
How do I stop viscose from pilling after ironing and washing?
Ironing does not usually cause pilling, but friction in washing and wear can. See fabrics that don’t pill for more on how pilling works.