HOW TO WASH RAYON TO PREVENT SHRINKING
Heat, water (at any temperature), tumble drying and fabric type can play key roles in laundry shrinkage. Some materials can be triggered to tighten and shrink when they come in contact with high temperatures, wetness and tumble drying during the washing and drying process. One of those fabrics is rayon—a delicate material that can experience wear and tear over time if not handled properly. Pre-sort these types of fabrics before washing and drying according to their needs. Read on to learn how to wash rayon fabric.
CAN YOU WASH RAYON?
Rayon is a washable, yet delicate fabric that tends to lose its durability and can shrink when exposed to water too frequently. It is a comfortable and tight-knit fabric, often used in summer wear and other types of soft clothing. Washing rayon properly can help minimize shrinkage and maintain your clothes, bedding and more.
NOTE: Always check the care tag before you begin to wash.
TYPES OF RAYON
Rayon is a hybrid of natural and synthetic fabrics and comes in many forms, such as viscose, modal and lyocell.
Viscose is crafted from treated wood pulp and has a silky texture. It’s the most common and least durable of the fabrics, making it susceptible to shrinkage.
Modal is a mix of beech-tree with cotton or spandex, contributing to its strength and durability.
- Lyocell uses a mix of beech-tree with other fibers, making it an absorbent form of rayon. You often find this material in moisture-wicking items.
With any type of rayon, be sure to treat the fabric gently when washing—vigorous agitation can cause it to pill. Also, be sure to check the garment’s care tag for wash or dry cleaning instructions.
DOES RAYON SHRINK?
Yes, rayon is a fabric that has a tendency to shrink, but you can help minimize shrinkage by washing rayon with care. If the garment’s tag does not require dry-clean only, be sure to wash the garment carefully. Wash in cold water in a washer or by hand, air dry or flat dry and dry clean when indicated. Always check the care tag on the garment before you begin cleaning.
NOTE: Rayon may still shrink in the washer and dryer, so if you have any concerns about your garment shrinking, hand wash and air dry only.
HOW TO WASH RAYON IN A WASHING MACHINE
Checking the care tag and washing with cool or cold water on a gentle cycle may help reduce the possibility of rayon—or other delicate fabrics—shrinking in the washing machine. Placing the garment in a mesh bag may also help reduce damage. Be sure to air dry your garment and pre-treat it carefully if necessary. Follow this step-by-step guide below to learn how to wash rayon clothing and care for your laundry properly.
TOOLS:
Washing machine, like this Maytag® Smart Top Load Washer with Extra Power
Mesh bag
Laundry symbol guide (for reference)
Drying rack (optional)
SUPPLIES:
Cold water
Mild detergent
STEP 1: CHECK CARE TAG
Before tossing your item in the washing machine, be sure to consult the care instructions on the garment label. Pay particular attention to any laundry symbols that might indicate its suitability for machine washing.
STEP 2: PATCH TEST
Test a small patch of the fabric to determine if a mild detergent is safe to use. Select an area like an inside seam or hem that’s discreet and apply the treatment. If there are no negative reactions, continue to wash the item.
STEP 3: WASH
To help protect the fabric, turn clothes inside out and place in a mesh bag before placing it in the washer. Set the wash to a gentle cycle and use cool or cold water.
NOTE: Set the temperature based on the care tag’s recommendation.
STEP 4: DRY
Typically, air drying your garment is preferred. Lay on a clean, flat surface or place it on a drying rack.
HOW DO YOU DRY RAYON?
If you’re wondering how to dry rayon, air drying can help maintain the quality of the fabric. It’s recommended that you lay it on a flat surface, place it on a drying rack, or use a hanger.
HOW DO YOU HAND WASH RAYON?
First, treat stains with a rayon-safe remover. Fill up the sink or basin with cold water and use a mild detergent. Gently agitate the item with your hands and soak for 15 minutes then rinse in cool water. Hand washing rayon can help prevent the fabric from shrinking but be sure to double-check the care tag before starting the cleaning process.
CAN YOU HAND WASH RAYON THAT SAYS DRY CLEAN ONLY?
No, you should not hand wash garments if the care tag states that the fabric is “dry clean only.” Take it to be dry cleaned to prevent shrinkage or potential damage.
TIPS FOR WASHING RAYON
Treating rayon fabrics gently and with care while washing can help avoid damaging the material. Here are a few laundry tips and tricks to help maintain the longevity of your clothing and prevent unnecessary shrinkage.
Always check the care tag.
Pre-treat stains with detergent.
Avoid using hot water—use cool or cold water only.
Air dry fabric—safest to hang dry or dry flat.
If the garment is “dry clean only,” consult a dry cleaner.
EXPLORE MAYTAG® WASHING MACHINES
When washing your fabrics, you want a method that will help maintain their quality and Maytag® washing machines are always up for the task. With features on select top and front loading models like the Deep Fill option that helps break down and soak away everyday tough messes and 12-Hr Fresh Spin™ which keeps clothes wrinkle-free for up to 12 hours after washing, Maytag brand washing machines are prepared to handle your various laundry needs.
