Care Tips for Viscose Underwear
Short answer: Viscose underwear lasts longest when you wash it gently, avoid strong heat and let it air dry. Viscose from bamboo is soft, but it can wear if it is handled harshly. Here is simple advice on washing, drying and storing so it keeps fitting well.
Start with the label
The label in the underwear tells you how to wash it, and it is the most important advice to follow. Temperature, cycle and drying can vary between products, so read it every time if you are in doubt. A few minutes with the label can save you a pair that has shrunk or gone hard.
Which temperature
Wash at a moderate temperature unless the label says otherwise. Very hot water can wear down fabric and elastic, and it often does not make underwear any cleaner than a normal wash. If you want it fully clean, wash after every wear instead of letting it pile up.
Bamboo in clothing
Bamboo in clothing is viscose made from bamboo, and it feels soft and smooth against the skin. It is therefore worth looking after, so it keeps feeling that way. Look at bamboo underpants for men and check the brand's care instructions on the product page.
Gentle cycle and laundry bag
A gentle cycle puts less strain on the fabric, and a laundry bag protects against the underwear catching on other clothes. Turn them inside out so the surface keeps looking better. If the machine is full to the brim, the clothes rub together more, so leave some room.
Detergent and fabric softener
Use a moderate amount of detergent, because too much can stay behind in the fabric. Go easy on fabric softener, which can leave a film on the fibres and make the fabric less soft. Stay with what the label recommends and rinse again if you are unsure.
Drying without heat
Hang the underwear to dry if you can, because heat in the tumble dryer can wear down the elastic. Do not leave it in a damp heap, but lay it flat or hang it up. Dry underwear stays fresher and keeps its shape for longer.
Storage and rotation
Fold the underwear neatly in the drawer and do not leave it pressed together for years. If you have several pairs, rotate them so that no pair wears out faster than the others. The same goes for socks, for example bamboo footies for men, which take the same wash.
When to replace them
When the elastic is slack, or the fabric has gone thin or developed holes, it is time for a new pair. Worn underwear fits badly and rubs more. Also look at bamboo T-shirts for men if you want to renew several layers at once.
Frequently asked questions
Can I tumble dry viscose underwear?
Follow the label. Many choose to air dry because heat can wear down fabric and elastic.
Do I need fabric softener?
You can skip it or use very little. Too much fabric softener can leave a film on the fibres and make the fabric less soft.
How often should I wash them?
Wash them after every wear, so sweat and skin cells do not stay in the fabric. Follow the label for temperature and cycle.
