Pros and Cons of Getting a Viscose Rug

Viscose rugs, also known as art silk or rayon rugs, have gained popularity in recent years due to their luxurious appearance and affordability compared to rugs made of natural fibres. Viscose is a fascinating man-made fibre used for making clothes, rugs and other textile items. However, it has its peculiarities and requires some specific care. There are a few things you should know before buying a viscose rug. Unfortunately, not all salespeople know them or are willing to mention them. As professional rug cleaners, we have years of experience cleaning all kinds of carpets. That is why we can give you some valuable insights on the advantages and disadvantages of viscose rugs and some expert tips about caring for your beautiful new carpet.

Read also: How to Choose a Rug for Your Living Room

Shaggy rugs like this one are among the most popular viscose rugs you can find nowadays. Image by topntp26 on Freepik

How Are Viscose Rugs Made

Viscose carpets, also known as artificial silk, bamboo silk or rayon rugs, are made through a multi-step process. It begins with the extraction of cellulose from wood pulp or cotton linters, which is then dissolved in a solution to create a viscous liquid. This liquid is forced through spinnerets to form long, continuous filaments that resemble silk. The filaments are solidified, cut into staple fibres, and spun into yarns. These yarns are woven on a loom to create the rug’s structure, incorporating various patterns and designs. Finishing touches such as trimming, binding, and optional treatments are applied, followed by a final inspection to ensure quality. Viscose rugs require delicate care and are ideal for low-traffic areas due to their relatively lower durability compared to natural fibre rugs. If you are interested in other fibres and materials used for rugs or furniture, you can check our detailed post on how to choose upholstery fabric for easy care of your furnishings.

You and your pet will fall in love with the softness of your viscose rug. However, you should take in mind that viscose stains easily, so you have to be confident in your pet’s training before getting this type of carpet. Image by Freepik

Pros and Cons of Viscose Rugs

Viscose and rayon rugs have qualities that put them ahead of other carpets produced with artificial fibres. However, there are a few things that might not suit everybody’s taste and lifestyle. Here’s what you need to know before getting a viscose rug for your home:

Advantages

Beautiful look: Viscose rugs have a natural sheen and lustrous appearance that can enhance the overall look of a room. Their aesthetics often mimic the appearance of more expensive materials like silk.

Versatile: Viscose rugs come in a wide range of weaves, colours and patterns, making them suitable for various interior design styles. They can complement both traditional and modern decor.

Cost-effective: Compared to natural fibres like silk or wool, viscose rugs tend to be more affordable. They offer a budget-friendly option for those who desire a luxurious look without the high price tag.

Low shedding: Unlike some natural fibre rugs, viscose rugs have minimal shedding. They typically maintain their appearance well over time.

Viscose rug in loft living room interior design . Image by rawpixel.com on Freepik

Disadvantages

Durability: Viscose rugs are less durable compared to natural fibre rugs like wool or cotton. They are susceptible to wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas. Viscose fibres are weaker and can break easily, leading to fraying or damage.

Moisture sensitivity: Viscose is highly absorbent and can easily be damaged by moisture. Spills or excessive moisture can cause the rug to shrink, warp, or develop water stains. Therefore, viscose rugs are not suitable for areas prone to spills or high humidity. If you already have some issues with the humidity at home, you can check this post to get some ideas on how to deal with mould.

Stain susceptibility: Viscose rugs are more prone to stains than other materials. They can easily stain with substances like water, food, or pet accidents. Special care and prompt stain removal are necessary to maintain their appearance.

Limited sunlight exposure: Viscose rugs are sensitive to prolonged exposure to sunlight. UV rays can cause discolouration and weaken the fibres over time. It is advisable to place them in areas with minimal direct sunlight or use window treatments to protect them.

Cleaning challenges: Cleaning viscose rugs can be tricky. They are generally not recommended for high-traffic areas or homes with children or pets. Professional cleaning is often recommended to avoid potential damage or discolouration.

Overall, while viscose rugs offer a luxurious and affordable option for home decor, they require careful maintenance and may not be the most durable choice in high-traffic areas or households with specific needs.

A robotic vacuum will save you a lot of efforts in mainlining your viscose rugs clean and dust free. Image by Freepik

How to Clean and Maintain Your Viscose Rug

Cleaning and maintaining synthetic carpets has some specifics, and this is particularly important for viscose rugs due to their delicate nature. Here are some general tips to help you clean and maintain your viscose rug:

1. Regular Vacuuming: Vacuum your viscose rug regularly to remove dust, dirt, and debris. Use a vacuum cleaner with a brushless suction head or a handheld vacuum to prevent any potential damage to the fibres. Using a robotic vacuum is also a good option to keep this type of carpet in good condition.
2. Spot Cleaning: Deal with spills or stains immediately to prevent them from setting in. Blot the affected spot using a clean dry towel to absorb as much liquid as possible. Avoid rubbing the stain, as it may spread or damage the fibres. Use a few drops of stain removal product mixed with lukewarm water and gently dab the stained area. Rinse with clean water and blot dry. Take in mind, that stain removal is a matter of chemistry so choose your cleaning products carefully to avoid permanent staining and damage. Some types of dirt can be tricky to clean, so if you are unsure how to deal with them, it is best to book professional stain removal service.
3. Avoid excessive moisture: Viscose rugs are prone to water damage, so it’s crucial to avoid saturating them with excessive moisture. When cleaning, use minimal water and ensure the rug dries completely to prevent mould or mildew growth.
4. Professional cleaning: Due to the delicate nature of viscose rugs, it’s recommended to have them professionally cleaned periodically. Professional carpet cleaners are experts in handling delicate fabrics and can effectively clean and refresh your carpet while minimizing the risk of damage.
5. Rotate the rug: Rotate your viscose rug periodically to prevent uneven wear. Rotating the piece helps distribute foot traffic and sunlight exposure evenly across the carpet.
6. Avoid direct sunlight: Extended exposure to direct sunlight can cause fading and discolouration in viscose rugs. Place your rug away from direct sunlight or use window treatments to protect it from harmful UV rays.
7. Use Rug Pads: Place a non-slip rug pad underneath your viscose rug to provide cushioning, prevent slipping, and protect both the carpet and the floor beneath.

Check also: Things You Can Do to Keep Your Carpets Clean

Always check the instructions provided by the rug manufacturer for specific recommendations on cleaning and maintenance. Each rug may have unique requirements based on its construction and blend of materials.