Rayon and viscose, what is the difference and what does it mean
Short answer: Rayon and viscose are in practice two words for the same group of fibres. Rayon is the word most often used in American English, while viscose is used in Europe, and both are regenerated cellulose fibres that can come from bamboo, wood or other plants.
What rayon is
Rayon is a collective term for fibres made from cellulose that is dissolved and pressed into threads again. The largest subgroup is viscose, and that is why the two words are often used interchangeably. The word rayon often appears on labels from countries outside Europe. See the range of bamboo bedding, where the fabric is often viscose from bamboo.
What viscose is
Viscose is the European name for the most common form of rayon. The cellulose comes from plants, and the finished fibre can feel soft and fluid. You can find viscose in clothes, bedding and towels. The name does not tell you which plant the cellulose comes from, so always read what the producer states.
Why two names for the same thing
It comes down to history and language. Rayon was used as a trade name and has since become the usual word in many countries. In Europe viscose won out. The rules for what a fibre may be called on the label can also vary between countries, so you may see both words in a shop.
Rayon, viscose and bamboo
When a product is called bamboo, it is usually viscose made from bamboo. That means bamboo, viscose and rayon can describe the same fibre from three angles: the raw material, the European name and the American one. See also bamboo towels if you want to compare fabrics for the home.
Is it natural
Rayon and viscose are made of plant cellulose, but the fibre is produced through a chemical process. That is why it is called regenerated and not natural in the same sense as cotton or wool. That is neither good nor bad in itself, just an explanation of what you are holding.
How it feels in use
Rayon and viscose often feel smooth, soft and fluid and hang loosely. They can be delicate when wet, so wash them gently according to the label. Always follow the instructions and do not iron at too high a heat, as the fabric can be damaged. That is a rule of thumb and not a guarantee.
How to read the label
Look for the words viscose, rayon, bamboo and elastane on the label and the composition in percent. Compare with what you know from other clothes and read the product description. For the night you can look at the women's Bamboo Pajama Shirt, where the label shows which fibre has been used.
What to take with you
Remember that rayon and viscose are in practice the same group and that the name says more about language than about quality. What matters is composition, weave or knit and care. Use the label as a guide and choose fabrics by what you like to have on your skin.
Frequently asked questions
Are rayon and viscose the same?
In practice yes. Rayon is a collective word for fibres of regenerated cellulose, and viscose is the most common type. The words are often used interchangeably.
Is rayon made of bamboo?
It can be. Rayon and viscose can be made from the cellulose of bamboo, wood or other plants. The label shows the fibre type but not always the plant.
Is rayon natural?
It is made of plant cellulose but through a chemical process, which is why it is called regenerated. It is not natural in the same sense as cotton.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
