What is Viscose Fabric? And How It’s Used in Bedding

Viscose is used in clothing, bedding, and even home textiles, yet most people don’t know what makes it special. If you’ve ever picked up a sheet set or blanket that felt silky and lightweight, there’s a good chance viscose was part of the blend.

This guide explains what viscose fabric is, how it’s made, and why it has become such a popular choice for bedding. By the end, you’ll know whether viscose bedding is a good fit for your sleep preferences and needs.

Table Of Contents

What Exactly Is Viscose Fabric?

Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made from plant-based materials. It starts with natural cellulose—often from wood pulp—that goes through a process to become soft, smooth fibers. Even though it’s processed, the base of viscose comes from renewable plants, which gives it a lightweight, breathable feel similar to natural fibers like cotton.

This blend of natural origins and man-made processing is what makes viscose unique. It drapes well, feels silky on the skin, and has a softness most people enjoy. Because of these qualities, viscose is commonly used in clothing, loungewear, luxury bedding, and decorative fabrics.

How Viscose Is Made

Viscose comes from cellulose, usually sourced from trees like eucalyptus, beech, or pine. The cellulose is turned into a pulp, treated with safe chemicals, and then spun into fibers. These fibers are woven into fabric.

While the steps are more involved than cotton or linen production, the result is a smooth, comfortable fabric that blends the breathability of natural fibers with the silky feel of synthetic ones. This is why viscose is often compared to rayon—they are made through a similar process and share a similar feel.

Key Benefits of Viscose

Viscose has earned a strong place in the bedding world because it offers several comfort-focused benefits that people appreciate.

Here are the qualities that make this fabric stand out:

Soft and Smooth Feel

Viscose has a naturally silky texture that feels gentle on the skin. It doesn’t feel rough or stiff, which makes it great for sheets and pillowcases that touch your face and body throughout the night.

Breathable and Cool

The plant-based fibers in viscose allow air to move more freely through the material. This helps prevent overheating, making viscose a strong choice for people who sleep hot.

Lightweight and Comfortable

Viscose drapes well and feels light against the skin. Its airy nature adds to the comfort of bedding made from it, especially during warmer months.

Moisture-Wicking Abilities

Viscose can draw moisture away from the body, helping you stay dry and comfortable. This is helpful for hot sleepers or anyone who sweats easily at night.

Versatile and Blends Well

Viscose blends easily with cotton, polyester, bamboo, and other fibers. These blends create bedding that balances softness, strength, and breathability.

These benefits explain why viscose is often found in sheet sets, blankets, comforter shells, and mattress toppers.

How Viscose Is Used in Bedding

Viscose shows up in bedding more often than many people realize. Its softness and cooling abilities make it ideal for many bedding essentials.

Sheets and Pillowcases

Viscose sheets feel smooth like silk but are much more affordable. They offer a cool, breathable feel that works well for warm sleepers. Pillowcases made with viscose also help reduce friction against hair and skin.

Comforter and Duvet Cover Fabrics

Many comforters and duvet covers include viscose blends to improve softness. It helps bedding feel lightweight while still maintaining warmth.

Blankets and Throws

Viscose blends create soft, flexible blankets that feel comfortable in any season. These blankets are easy to layer without adding bulk.

Mattress Pads and Toppers

Some quilted mattress pads use viscose in the outer fabric to help wick away moisture and improve airflow, keeping your bed cooler throughout the night.

Viscose vs. Other Bedding Fabrics

If you’re deciding whether viscose is right for you, comparing it to other popular fabrics can help.

Viscose vs. Cotton

Cotton is natural, breathable, and durable. Viscose is softer and smoother, with a silkier feel. Both materials stay cool, but viscose tends to feel slightly lighter. Cotton is easier to care for, while viscose needs gentler washing.

Viscose vs. Bamboo

Bamboo and viscose are often confused because bamboo can be turned into viscose. Bamboo viscose is soft, cool, and moisture-wicking. General viscose offers these same qualities, but bamboo viscose tends to feel slightly more breathable.

Viscose vs. Polyester

Polyester is durable and wrinkle-resistant but not as breathable as viscose. Bedding with viscose feels softer, cooler, and more natural on the skin.

Viscose vs. Silk

Silk is luxurious but expensive and delicate. Viscose offers a similar smooth feel at a much more affordable price, making it a budget-friendly alternative for silky bedding.

Each fabric has strengths, but viscose hits a comfortable middle point between softness, breathability, and cost.

Caring for Viscose Bedding

Viscose bedding is easy to use but requires a bit of care to keep it in good condition.

  • Wash on a gentle cycle.
  • Use cold water to protect the fibers.
  • Avoid high heat in the dryer; air-drying is best.
  • Remove wrinkles by ironing on low heat if needed.

Because viscose is absorbent, it can feel weaker when wet. Handling it gently during washing prevents stretching or damage.

Is Viscose Bedding Right for You?

Viscose bedding is a great choice if you prefer sheets that feel soft, breathable, and lightweight. It’s especially comfortable for warm sleepers, people who like smooth fabrics, and anyone who wants a silky feel without the high price.

If you prefer heavier or more structured bedding, cotton or cotton blends may be a better match. But for softness, drape, and cool comfort, viscose is an easy fabric to love.

Conclusion

Viscose stands out in the bedding world because it bridges the gap between natural comfort and modern performance. It delivers the soft, easygoing feel people love, yet it still brings the polished look that helps a bedroom feel thoughtfully put together.

Whether you want viscose bedding to elevate your style or simply to enjoy a softer sleep surface, it offers a reliable balance of comfort and practicality. As you explore different fabrics for your bedroom, viscose is a smart option to keep on your radar—versatile, comfortable, and affordable.

Back to blog