How to Wash a Rayon Co-ord Set So It Stays Soft and Bright

Most of our printed co-ord sets are made in soft rayon blends. Rayon is loved for the way it drapes, the cool, smooth feel on the skin and how richly it holds a print. It is also a fabric that rewards a little care: wash it like a pair of jeans and it can shrink, lose its softness or fade. Wash it gently and it stays beautiful for seasons.

This is the routine we recommend for every rayon piece we make.

Why rayon needs a gentler wash

Rayon (viscose) is made from plant cellulose. The fibres absorb water readily, which is part of why rayon feels comfortable in the heat, but it also means the fabric is weaker when wet than when dry. Hot water, strong agitation and wringing stretch and stress the wet fibres, which is what causes shrinking, puckering and a rough feel. Cold water and a gentle hand avoid all three.

Before you wash

• Read the care label. It always takes priority over general advice.
• Turn the pieces inside out to protect the print and the surface of the fabric.
• Close buttons and zips so they don’t snag.
• Separate deep and bright colours for the first few washes. Deep shades may release a little dye early on.

How to hand wash rayon (recommended)

1. Fill a bucket with cold water and dissolve a small amount of mild liquid detergent.
2. Submerge the set and gently swish and squeeze the fabric for two or three minutes. Don’t scrub.
3. Don’t leave it to soak, especially deep or bright colours.
4. Rinse in clean cold water until the water runs clear.
5. Lift the pieces out and press the water out with your hands. Never wring or twist.
6. Roll each piece in a clean, dry towel and press to remove more water.

Can you machine wash rayon?

If the care label allows it, yes, carefully:

• Use the delicate or hand-wash cycle, cold water and a low spin.
• Put each piece in a mesh laundry bag.
• Wash with similar colours and light fabrics only, never with towels or jeans.
• Take it out as soon as the cycle ends, so it doesn’t sit creased in the drum.

How to dry rayon

Drying is where most rayon pieces are lost. Avoid the tumble dryer: the heat shrinks the fibres. Instead:

• Hang shirts and tops on a padded or wide hanger; dry pants and skirts flat or folded over a line.
• Dry in the shade. Strong direct sun fades colour, especially on prints.
• Smooth the seams and hems with your hands while the fabric is damp, so it dries flatter.

How to iron rayon

Iron rayon on the reverse side at a low to medium heat, while it is still very slightly damp. If you must iron the front, place a thin cotton cloth between the iron and the fabric to avoid shine marks. A handheld steamer is even gentler and works well on flowing shirts and wide-leg pants.

Dealing with stains

Act quickly and blot, don’t rub. Rinse the stain from the back with cold water, then dab a little mild detergent on the spot and rinse again. Avoid bleach and harsh stain removers, which can weaken rayon and strip colour. Test any product on an inside seam first.

Storing your set

• Hang shirts and tunics; fold pants and skirts along their seams.
• Keep pieces in a cool, dry, dark cupboard, away from direct sunlight.
• Give them room so they don’t crush and crease.

Washing a cotton, linen-blend or satin piece? Our fabric care guide covers every fabric we use, and our fabric comparison explains how they differ.

Frequently asked questions

Does rayon shrink when washed?

It can, if it is washed in hot water, wrung out or tumble dried. Washing in cold water and drying flat or on a hanger in the shade keeps it close to its original size.

Can I use regular detergent on rayon?

Use a mild liquid detergent. Strong powders and bleach can be harsh on rayon fibres and fade prints.

Why does my rayon feel stiff after washing?

Rayon can feel a little stiff as it dries. A light steam or a low-heat iron on the reverse softens it again.

Will the colour bleed?

Deep shades may release a little dye in the first few washes. Wash them separately in cold water and don’t soak them.

Read the full fabric care guide →