Polyester Viscose Blend Washing – How to Wash Without Shrinking or Damaging Your Clothes

Polyester viscose blends are a popular choice for everyday wear and activewear. The fabric is breathable, lightweight, and has a smooth, comfortable feel. But polyester viscose blend washing requires special care if you want to avoid shrinking, pilling, or weakening the fibers over time.

Whether it’s a flowy top, dress pants, or a blended activewear set, knowing how to properly care for this fabric helps preserve its appearance, texture, and performance. This guide walks you through the best washing, drying, and care practices for polyester-viscose garments—so you can keep your favorites looking their best.

What Is a Polyester Viscose Blend?

Before we dive into polyester viscose blend washing, it’s helpful to understand what this fabric is made of.

• Polyester is a durable synthetic fiber that resists wrinkles, dries quickly, and holds its shape.

• Viscose (also known as rayon) is a semi-synthetic fiber derived from wood pulp. It has a silk-like texture, great breathability, and excellent drape—but it’s more delicate when wet.

Together, this blend creates a fabric that’s soft and fluid like viscose, but stronger and more wrinkle-resistant thanks to the polyester. However, it’s more prone to shrinking, stretching, or warping than pure polyester—making proper washing technique essential.

Can You Machine Wash Polyester Viscose Blend?

Yes, but you need to wash it carefully. The viscose component is especially vulnerable to agitation and heat, so always treat this fabric gently.

Tips for Washing Polyester Viscose Blend:

• Use cold or lukewarm water only – Never hot, as it can shrink or distort the viscose

• Select a delicate cycle – Less agitation helps prevent fiber damage and pilling

• Use a mild liquid detergent – Choose one designed for synthetics or delicate blends

• Avoid bleach and softeners – Both can weaken the structure of the viscose

Using the right wash settings helps preserve the fabric's shape, texture, and softness.

Should You Hand Wash Polyester Viscose?

For extra delicate or structured garments (like tailored trousers or lined tops), hand washing polyester viscose is the safest option.

Hand Washing Instructions:

1. Fill a basin or sink with cold water

2. Add a small amount of gentle liquid detergent

3. Submerge the garment and gently swish it—no scrubbing or twisting

4. Let it soak for 5–10 minutes

5. Rinse with cold water until detergent is completely removed

6. Gently press out water—do not wring

7. Lay flat or roll in a towel to remove excess moisture before drying

This method reduces the risk of distortion, stretching, or weakening the fabric.

How to Dry Polyester Viscose Blend

Drying is where many people unintentionally ruin this fabric. High heat and tumbling can cause viscose to shrink and polyester to stiffen or become brittle.

Best Drying Practices:

• Lay flat to dry – Ideal for structured or stretchy pieces

• Hang dry on padded hangers – Prevents shoulder bumps or stretching

• Avoid dryers unless absolutely necessary – If needed, use the lowest heat and remove garments while still slightly damp

• Reshape while damp – Smooth out wrinkles and adjust the garment's shape before it dries completely

Never dry polyester-viscose blends with towels, jeans, or other heavy items that can cause friction and pilling.

How to Prevent Pilling on Polyester Viscose

Pilling happens when fibers break and tangle, often due to friction. It’s a common issue with polyester-viscose blends but can be minimized with the right approach.

To prevent pilling:

• Wash on low spin speeds

• Avoid washing with abrasive fabrics like towels or denim

• Turn garments inside out before washing

• Air dry whenever possible

• Use a gentle detergent made for synthetics and delicates

These steps help protect the fabric from unnecessary wear during the wash and dry cycle.

Should You Iron Polyester Viscose?

Yes—but very carefully. The viscose can scorch and the polyester can melt under high heat, so temperature control is key.

Ironing Tips:

• Use a low to medium heat setting

• Always iron on the reverse side of the fabric

• Use a press cloth to act as a buffer between the fabric and the iron

• Consider steaming instead—it's gentler and often more effective for smoothing delicate blends

Final Thoughts

Proper polyester viscose blend washing is all about balance: gentle detergent, cold water, minimal agitation, and no heat drying. The polyester adds durability, but the viscose requires a delicate touch.

To keep your polyester-viscose clothing in top condition:

• Wash with care

• Avoid high heat

• Handle wet garments gently

• Skip the dryer whenever possible

With a little extra attention, your blended garments will stay soft, smooth, and stylish for far longer than if they’re tossed in the regular laundry pile.