Rayon is one of the most versatile fabrics, yet it remains somewhat of a mystery. That’s partly because of its remarkable ability to shape-shift and imitate other fabrics. Rayon has been known to take on the properties of silk, cotton, and wool, to name only a few. Plus, it can be used in nearly any type of clothing. This can make it challenging to pin down what it is, how to launder it, and what weather it’s best suited for. To help boost your familiarity with this ubiquitous fabric, keep reading to see everything you need to know about rayon.
What Is Rayon?
In a nutshell, rayon is a fabric made from purified cellulose fibers, which are typically created from wood pulp. Though rayon is derived from natural materials, it requires certain chemicals, so it’s considered to be a semi-synthetic fabric.
One of the most common types of rayon is viscose rayon, which has a lot in common with cotton. It’s breathable, moisture-absorbent, and a popular choice for casual and athletic wear. It also shows up in dresses, blouses, and outerwear. Secondary types of rayon include modal rayon (typically made from beech trees) and lyocell (seen in everything from denim to dress shirts).
How Do You Wash Rayon?
Laundering rayon takes a little extra consideration. Rayon is often blended with other fabrics (such as polyester and cotton), so washing instructions can vary significantly. While its texture and versatility make it an ideal choice for a range of apparel, rayon isn’t a durable fabric, and standard machine washing can cause it to stretch, shrink, or bleed onto other articles of clothing. As a result, most experts recommend hand-washing rayon, but always be sure to check the care label instructions beforehand.
Now, shop our favorite rayon picks:
The perfect shirt for the office (and everything else).
Dôen is a great place to shop for gorgeous pieces made of rayon.
This vest is a dream.
We can't get over how good these look on.
A lightweight knit vest for your summer-to-fall looks.
A minimalist's dream.
A versatile T-shirt is always a win.
The perfect dress for early fall has been found.
Love this mustard maxi with sandals.
Zoom in to see how good the details are.
You're going to want to wear this a lot.
Pro tip: Pair it with a blazer for fall.
What's not to love about this skirt?
Swap your cotton button-down out for a little something different.
This top is surprisingly versatile.
Perfect for all of your baggy jeans.
A wardrobe essential.
In my opinion, this is currently one of Amazon's best dresses.
You'll probably wear this for years.
This looks so buttery soft.
This is begging to be worn with tall boots and a sweater on a crisp fall day.
This story was published at an earlier date and has been recently updated.
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