Short answer
Pure viscose is not known for being stretchy or elastic. Woven viscose has little give. Viscose knits, like jersey, can feel stretchy because of their loop structure, but they may not recover well, and viscose garments can grow or sag, particularly when wet. Viscose blended with a small amount of elastane is the way to get true stretch and recovery.
What viscose is
Viscose is a manufactured fiber made from cellulose, usually derived from wood pulp. It is closely related to rayon, and the two names are often used interchangeably (see is rayon like cotton and how rayon feels). It is valued for a soft feel and fluid drape. It is not a natural fiber in the strict sense, nor a fully synthetic one; it is generally described as regenerated cellulose. You can read about related fibers in our guide to modal.
Woven vs. knit viscose
- Woven viscose (challis, poplin, some dress fabrics): drapey, with little stretch along the threads. Some give is possible on the bias.
- Knit viscose (jersey tops, loungewear): gives readily, but that is mechanical stretch rather than elasticity.
Why viscose can grow out of shape
Viscose fibers are generally weaker when wet. Hanging a wet garment or wearing it heavily can stretch it out, and it may not return to its original shape. This is why knit viscose tops sometimes seem to lengthen or sag at the hem and neckline.
Viscose blended with elastane
Many stretchy viscose garments contain a few percent of elastane or spandex. This helps the fabric recover and keep shape. Check the fiber content on the label, and see uses of Lycra fabric for background on the elastic fiber.
Does viscose shrink in the dryer?
It can. Viscose is known to shrink, and heat and agitation can make this worse. Many viscose care labels recommend cool or gentle washing and air drying, or low heat if drying is allowed. Always follow your garment’s label. If a viscose item has shrunk, some people try gentle methods such as steaming or soaking it in lukewarm water with conditioner and reshaping it, but results vary and cannot be guaranteed.
Should you size up or down in viscose?
There is no universal rule. If the item is woven, buy your usual size and consider that it may shrink slightly if washed incorrectly. If you plan to machine wash and dry it despite the label, sizing up may seem tempting, but the better approach is to wash gently and keep your regular size. Knit viscose with elastane often fits close to the body, so read the size guide and reviews.
Downsides of viscose
- It can wrinkle and may shrink.
- It can lose shape when wet or with heavy wear.
- It may require delicate care, and some pieces are dry-clean only.
- Production can involve chemicals and environmental concerns, which vary by manufacturer.
Caring for viscose to limit stretching and shrinking
- Check the care label first.
- Wash on a gentle cycle in cool water, or hand wash.
- Avoid wringing or twisting.
- Dry flat or on a padded hanger, away from direct heat.
- Iron on a low setting if the label allows it; see ironing viscose fabric for the details.
For how other fibers compare, see does polyester stretch and is nylon stretchy. For blends with cotton, see is cotton blend material stretchy.
FAQ
What is viscous material?
Usually this means viscose, the cellulose-based fiber. “Viscous” is the word for a thick liquid, and is not the fabric.
Is viscose the same as rayon?
They are closely related, and viscose is the most common type of rayon.
Is viscose breathable?
It is generally considered fairly breathable and soft against the skin, though this depends on the fabric. See is viscose a breathable fabric for more, and best fabrics for blouses for where viscose is commonly used.