Cupro and viscose and the difference in clothing
Short answer: What is cupro? Cupro is a fibre made from cellulose from cotton waste, while viscose is made from cellulose from wood or bamboo. Both are regenerated cellulose fibres, but they are produced differently and can feel different. Here is an overview of the difference and what the label tells you.
What is cupro
Cupro is a regenerated cellulose fibre, typically made from the tiny fibres left on the cotton seeds after the cotton harvest. The fibres are dissolved and spun into a new yarn. The fabric is often described as smooth and soft, but how it feels depends on the knit and the brand.
What is viscose
Viscose is also a regenerated cellulose fibre, but the raw material is typically cellulose from wood or other plants. Bamboo viscose is viscose made from bamboo. See the range of bamboo underwear for women to see how the composition is shown on the label, and read it on each individual style.
What they have in common
Both cupro and viscose are cellulose-based fibres that have been dissolved and spun into new yarn. That is why they are often called semi-synthetic or regenerated fibres. Both can feel soft, and they are used in clothing where you want a soft drape. It is the process and the raw material that set them apart.
The difference in production and raw material
Cupro and viscose use different solvents and raw materials. The raw material for cupro is cotton waste, while for viscose it is wood, bamboo or other plants. That is what you can read in the fibre list. How a maker handles the process can vary, so read the brand's own information if it matters to you.
How they feel and behave
Many describe cupro as smooth and light, while viscose feels soft and drapes nicely. Both can lose shape if washed wrongly. Where they differ most depends on knit and thickness. Try the fabric if you can, because only your own skin can say what feels best.
Care of cupro and viscose
Both fibres can be delicate when wet, so wash gently by the label. Use a laundry bag and avoid high heat. Air drying is safest. Always follow the care symbols, as they vary between products. Hand washing can be an option for the most delicate fabrics if the label recommends it.
What you can read from the label
The label shows the fibres in percentages. If you see viscose, bamboo or cupro, you know the fabric is cellulose-based. Look at bamboo panties and bamboo tops for women as examples of what labels can look like. Compare, and choose the composition that suits you.
When the choice matters
For most people the difference is small in daily life, and fit matters more than the fibre. If you are curious about the composition, you can use the label as a guide. If you have sensitive skin, try the fabric for a short day and talk to your doctor if your skin reacts.
Frequently asked questions
What is cupro
Cupro is a regenerated cellulose fibre, typically made from cotton waste and spun into new yarn.
Are viscose and cupro the same
No, both are regenerated cellulose fibres, but the raw material and process differ. Viscose is typically made from wood or bamboo.
How do I wash them
Follow the label, wash gently, avoid high heat and air dry. Both fibres can be delicate when wet.
