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Rayon in women's T-shirts and how the fabric behaves

Short answer: Rayon is another name for viscose, meaning fibres made from cellulose, and the fabric is known for being soft, smooth and flowing. It can shrink and go slack with rough washing. Wash gently and let the clothes air dry.

What is rayon fabric

Rayon fabric is another word for viscose, which is made from plant cellulose. Bamboo in clothing is a form of viscose made from bamboo. The fabric is known for feeling soft and for falling lightly and fluidly, and it is often used in T-shirts and tops.

How the fabric feels

Rayon fabric often feels smooth and cool against the skin and has a soft drape that follows the body. That makes it comfortable to wear for a long time. It is less firm than cotton, though, so the T-shirt can look more fluid and less structured.

The main choice for women

If you are looking for a T-shirt in this kind of fabric, browse the range of bamboo T-shirt for women. You can compare cuts, lengths and necklines and choose the fit that suits your wardrobe and the trousers and skirts you use most often.

Rayon fabric and washing

Rayon fabric is sensitive to heat and rough handling. Wash at a low or moderate temperature according to the care label and use a mild detergent. Turn the T-shirt inside out to protect the surface, and do not wring it when wet, because the fibres can be pulled out of shape.

Drying and shrinkage

Viscose can shrink if dried at high heat. Let the T-shirt air dry and gently pull it into shape while damp. If you hang it on a hanger, the shoulders can get bumps, so lay it flat or hang it over a rail instead.

Fit and drape in daily life

Because rayon fabric drapes softly, a close-fitting T-shirt can show details of what is underneath. Choose a slightly looser model if you do not want that, or a slightly heavier quality. You can see the range from Bamboo Basics if you are looking for simple basic tops.

Combine with underwear

The gentle drape also means underwear should sit smoothly under the clothes. Seamless models and soft fabric give fewer lines under the T-shirt. See also bamboo bra without underwire if you want a soft bra that does not press under the soft T-shirt.

When the T-shirt gets worn

Over time the fabric can wear and the neck can lose its shape. It helps to follow the care label and not wash more than needed. When the T-shirt has been used a lot, it can become homewear. That way it keeps being useful for longer.

Frequently asked questions

Are rayon and viscose the same?

Yes, rayon is another word for viscose, which is made from plant cellulose. Bamboo in clothing is viscose made from bamboo.

Does rayon fabric shrink?

It can, especially at high heat. Wash at a low or moderate temperature, let the clothes air dry and always follow the care label.

Is rayon fabric warm or cool?

It often feels cool and smooth against the skin. How warm it gets depends on the thickness and on what you wear with it.