Is viscose toxic. But is this true? Not all viscose is created equal.

Is viscose toxic. Also known as viscose, it’s now the third most commonly used textile fiber in the world. Viscose is a type of rayon fabric; an umbrella term for semi-synthetic fabrics derived from plant material. Jun 6, 2025 · Key Takeaways The viscose production process for bamboo involves harmful chemicals that can lead to significant water pollution and soil degradation. But there are more sustainable alternatives! Jun 20, 2025 · The most common method for producing viscose involves the use of carbon disulfide, a toxic chemical that can have severe health and environmental impacts. May 16, 2025 · Is Bamboo Viscose Toxic? The process of making bamboo viscose is known as the viscose (or rayon) method, and while it transforms bamboo into something wonderfully soft, it does involve the use of chemicals. Rayon and viscose are broken down through a mechanical and chemical process that involves sodium hydroxide, carbon disulfide, and Oct 9, 2020 · Lyocell The last type of bamboo textile is bamboo lyocell. See full list on luxiders. Jun 19, 2025 · Learn what viscose fabric is, how it’s made, its pros and cons, and how to care for it. Speaking of toxic chemicals… Is Viscose Bad for the Environment? Being a plant-based material, the fabric is not inherently toxic or polluting. The chemicals used to produce the materials stay embedded in the clothing afterwards. While bamboo is a sustainable crop, the viscose process reduces its eco-friendliness. Nov 7, 2024 · Bamboo clothing can be toxic if made through the viscose process, which uses harmful chemicals like carbon disulfide. But lurking beneath its lustrous surface are several concerns that might make you reconsider its place in sustainable living. Less than 30% of viscose is sustainably sourced, further amplifying these concerns. Jun 23, 2025 · Viscose is a human-made material that is often touted as a more sustainable alternative to cotton or polyester. The cellulose fiber comes from a plant; it can be eucalyptus, beech, pine, or of course, bamboo. How Can I Avoid Exposure to Toxic Viscose? To avoid exposure to toxic viscose, consumers can take several precautions. ‘The way in which most of the viscose fibre is produced today, is highly unsustainable,’ Urska Trunk of Changing Markets told The Ethicalist. And even if it's made from trees, during the manufacturing process a product could have been treated with toxic chemicals linked to negative health impacts—including formaldehyde, bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and silicone. Additionally, sourcing wood pulp for extracting cellulose to develop viscose involves cutting down trees, significantly affecting the ecological balance. This is a toxic ingredient linked to coronary heart disease, birth defects and cancer in textile workers and people who live close to the factories. That leads to the next big question: Is bamboo viscose toxic? This is a smart question—and the answer is: No, the fabric itself is not toxic. Jul 17, 2025 · Is viscose toxic to wear or harmful to the environment?Discover its health risks, chemical process, and safer fabric alternatives. Nov 24, 2024 · Viscose, often celebrated for its silk-like smoothness and affordability, has found its way into numerous wardrobes and homes around the globe. References Opperskalski, S. May 17, 2025 · There is considerable confusion regarding bamboo viscose and its toxicity. The manufacturing process involves the use of hazardous chemicals, leading to air and water pollution, and the sourcing of wood pulp often results in deforestation and exploitation of natural Mar 15, 2023 · Sworn off polyester? Rayon viscose is billed as an eco-friendly fabric that is made of plants. Our guide is a small, “elegant” molecule called carbon disulfide—a compound that is a key ingredient in the making of viscose (better known as rayon) and is also insidiously toxic, having devastated Be concerned about who makes your clothes, demand quality, thrift shop, repurpose, say no to synthetic fabrics such as polyester, acrylic, rayon, acetate, nylon, tri-acetate, modal, tencel, loycell, viscose and even bamboo (currently bamboo is produced using the same toxic methods as rayon and in fact it is classified as rayon fiber). Viscose, a popular fabric made from wood pulp, has been touted as a sustainable alternative to traditional materials like cotton and polyester. What Is Viscose Fabric? Originally marketed in the late 1800s as an artificial silk, viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric, meaning it’s made from a mixture of synthetic and natural materials. Traditional viscose production contributes to deforestation, pollutes water and air, and exposes workers to dangerous chemicals like carbon disulphide (especially in countries with weak Feb 1, 2024 · Is modal rayon/viscose eco-friendly? Modal fabric is a type of viscose that is considered a “second-generation” cellulosic fiber. Jun 14, 2023 · These toxic chemicals are often released as waste into the air and waterways, causing pollution and endangering both human and marine life. The textile industry has been under scrutiny for its environmental impact, with many fabrics coming under fire for their contribution to pollution, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions. Aug 8, 2023 · Viscose’s chemical treatment process generates waste and greenhouse gas emissions, due to the high amount of energy that’s required for the task at hand. Is viscose more sustainable? As a plant-based fibre, viscose is not inherently toxic or polluting. Bamboo Viscose: The Common Choice Bamboo viscose, or bamboo rayon as it’s also known, is the most prevalent type of bamboo fabric. However, viscose and rayon both require significant inputs of toxic chemicals, including sodium hydroxide solvents, and are not as breathable and moisture-wicking as lyocell. Dec 29, 2024 · Why is viscose harmful to our planet? Discover the shocking facts that reveal its hidden environmental costs and what you can do about it. The inherent antimicrobial properties of bamboo eliminate the need for pesticides and fertilizers. Chemicals in synthetic fabrics aren’t the best companions for our skin. ‘This is currently a process that is heavily reliant on toxic chemicals, particularly carbon disulphide. Early studies are showing that microplastics definitely are present from fabrics like rayon and that pollution from those that use the rayon/viscose process definitely create a lot of toxic waste in the places they manufacture these fabrics. Aug 29, 2024 · With all those toxic chemicals named and shamed, it begs the question: is viscose fabric toxic as well as unsustainable? While not necessarily toxic to those exposed to the final product, its production process poses some pretty serious risks to the environment and workers. Feb 26, 2024 · Viscose, often synonymous with rayon, is a semi-synthetic fabric celebrated for its silk-like softness and impressive versatility. Its production, known as the ‘viscose process’, requires the use of formaldehyde resins, carbon disulfide, and other toxic solvents to mold natural cellulose into fibers. Cheap manufacture of viscose involves a chemically intensive process, using carbon disulphide. Chemical leaching during bamboo fabric production poses risks to local ecosystems and can contaminate water sources with toxic substances and heavy metals. Today, viscose Jun 23, 2025 · Viscose rayon is a popular fabric used in clothing, upholstery, bedding, and carpets. Despite its natural origins, the chemical-intensive production process, massive deforestation, and toxic pollution make most viscose harmful to our planet. Amine oxide, a non-toxic solvent, is used to break down the pulp for lyocell production. Yes, some is sustainably Dirty Fashion: on track for transformation This report assesses the progress made to date by global apparel companies and viscose manufacturers in the transition towards responsibly-produced viscose. Nov 19, 2024 · A recent study finds that microplastics from biobased fibers like viscose and lyocell are more toxic to earthworms than those from petrochemical-based polyester (Environ. Jul 28, 2025 · Conventional viscose is NOT sustainable. Jun 16, 2022 · Compared to natural, renewable fibers, synthetic materials like rayon are harmful and toxic for the environment, factory workers, and consumers. Is bamboo viscose toxic? Whilst it is true that most bamboo textile products are made using environmentally toxic chemicals, our bamboo from viscose fabric is manufactured in a closed-loop process with non-harmful chemicals. Mar 5, 2023 · What is Viscose Fabric Rayon spandex fabric is a fashion favorite! This versatile and soft material flows beautifully and feels dreamy on the skin. Choose sustainable brands for a healthier planet! Jan 26, 2025 · Viscose Rayon The terms “viscose” and “rayon” are often used interchangeably. Feb 12, 2025 · Rayon fabric can emit toxic substances that can cause nausea, headaches, vomiting, muscle and chest pain, and insomnia. On one hand, it's soft, breathable, and reminiscent of silk, making it a popular choice. These chemicals pose serious health Oct 1, 2024 · Learn the risks of wearing toxic fabrics, why you should avoid them, and how to choose healthier, more sustainable clothes. How is this possible? Because of how viscose is made and what is used to make it 1. Jan 10, 2025 · Viscose is used in dresses and skirts among other items. Almost all the world’s viscose is produced in just a handful of places in China, India and Nov 10, 2024 · Is viscose eco-friendly? Viscose's eco-friendliness remains a complex issue. It was created as a cheaper, more durable alternative to silk. May 19, 2023 · After harvesting, many synthetic fibers go through toxic chemical treatments, while bamboo fibers are soaked in natural enzymes before being spun into yarn. Sep 25, 2020 · Rayon fabric can emit toxic substances that can cause nausea, headaches, vomiting, chest and muscle pain, and insomnia. Thankfully, viscose is biodegradable if treated correctly. Man-made fabrics like acrylic, polyester, rayon, acetate, and nylon are treated with thousands of harmful toxic chemicals during production, according to ScienceDaily. Skip the toxic fabrics -- polyester, we're looking at you -- and shop for natural fabrics instead. The production process of viscose involves chemical conversion processes and energy-intensive methods. Bamboo viscose’s drawbacks primarily stem from the chemicals used in its processing, which can pose risks if not managed correctly. However, consumers may be concerned about the useability of viscose garments. But is this true? Not all viscose is created equal. These chemicals are harmful to workers’ health and pollute the environment if not properly managed. This means that if your skin is allergic to harmful chemicals, you won't have an issue with bamboo viscose because it doesn't get exposed to these toxic substances. But the real problem lies in its production process. It's commonly used as a silk substitute. Learn about the pros and cons of viscose, its alternatives, and how to care for it. Conscientious clothiers are working to distinguish themselves from those who use materials, mainly viscose rayon fabric, that require toxic production… What is Viscose? Viscose is a semi-synthetic form of rayon created using man-made cellulosic fibers (MMCF) from trees. In terms of the production process, still some toxic chemicals involved. In June 2017, all this changed when we published Dirty Fashion: How pollution in the global textiles supply chain is making viscose toxic. So we had to ask: How sustainable are viscose fabrics? Jul 28, 2023 · Fast fashion's silent threat: learn the dangers and top 5 toxic clothing materials. It originates from the cellulose of the plant. These highly dangerous substances poison the environment and put workers' health at risk. Jun 22, 2023 · What is Viscose? Viscose is a human-made material that’s partially synthetic, and made of trees. Looking for MADE SAFE or OEKO TEX certification can help ensure they are safer fabrics. But it comes at an environmental and social cost, as a 2017 report Dirty Fashion: How Pollution in the Global Textile Supply Chain is Making Viscose Toxic from the Changing Markets Foundation shows. This chemical poses risks to workers and the environment. Click to learn more! In fact, using toxic chemicals is an integral part of viscose production. But is viscose really good for the environment? In this Apr 27, 2021 · Viscose is the generalized term for a regenerated cellulose fiber obtained by the viscose process. Blanc, an internationally renowned specialist in occupational and environmental medicine, tells the story of the heartbreaking neuropsychiatric and cardiovascular diseases caused by workers’ exposure to this poison, but we learn much more than toxicology. Preferred fiber & materials market report 2020. Jul 15, 2025 · Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made from wood pulp transformed through chemical processing. ” Jun 11, 2025 · Viscose bamboo is a semi-synthetic fabric made by chemically processing bamboo cellulose. Explore alternatives like lyocell and modal for eco-friendly fashion choices. Evidence has also been found that chemicals from synthetic textiles like bamboo viscose can leach into the skin, causing issues for wearers. I think it depends on how you 'weigh' the cons - as I understand it, viscose fabric production is a toxic process, and cotton uses a lot of water and pesticides for the source material. (2020). Some manufacturers Mar 29, 2017 · Not all bamboo clothing is what it seems. Made from natural cellulose fibers, rayon is lightweight, breathable, and a popular choice for all sorts of garments, from flowy dresses to chic blouses. Learn how it’s made, its environmental impact, and how to shop sustainably. Learn more about how it's made, its environmental impact, and more. May 20, 2021 · Even though it's made from bamboo fibers which are a renewable resource, bamboo fabrics are man-made semi-synthetic textile similar to viscose rayon. Mar 24, 2024 · Viscose (sometimes called banana or bamboo silk, rayon, Lyocell, or ramie) is actually semisynthetic. You’ll love rayon for its soft Apr 27, 2025 · Lyocell fabric FAQ What is the difference between lyocell and viscose or rayon? Lyocell is a plant-based fiber, just like viscose and rayon. 100% viscose biodegrades in roughly one year. It’s also found in home textiles like curtains and bedding. Apr 7, 2024 · Transforming from cellulose cast-offs into a fabric, rayon leaves a toxic trail of hazardous compounds. Rayon and viscose textiles that end up in landfills take time to decompose. While it’s made from plant-based cellulose, viscose is heavily processed with toxic chemicals, making it far from a purely natural or sustainable fabric. So yes, when you ask is viscose bad for the environment clothes, pollution from production makes the answer a likely yes. Originating from wood pulp, this unique material blends the natural with the synthetic, offering a cost-effective alternative to silk and cotton. End result is nothing I’d call “natural” though some bill it as a natural fiber. Instead of using cellulose from just any tree, though, this fabric comes from bamboo plants. Jan 29, 2024 · As a result, working conditions in bamboo viscose factories are very dangerous, and excess chemicals from the production process often leak into the environment, polluting the air and water. Following on-the-ground investigations in India, Indonesia and China, we revealed how companies supplying viscose to the international market were dumping untreated wastewater in lakes and waterways, ruining Jul 28, 2025 · A key chemical used in this process is carbon disulfide. In addition to all this, its production heavily pollutes the environment. On top of that, manufacturers find it difficult to dispose of these chemicals and dump wastewater without proper treatment, which in turn contaminates water bodies. To clarify, bamboo itself is non-toxic; however, the toxicity of bamboo viscose fabric can vary based on individual skin conditions. Mar 15, 2018 · Viscose, a man-made fibre from a wood pulp source, is increasingly used in the fashion industry. Warm sweaters or light dresses, our favorite athletic leggings, or shaping underwear — so many things around us are made from synthetic materials. It was designed to provide silk-like drape and softness without the high price tag. Rayon has been riding a wave of popularity for over a century. Deforestation is another concern associated with viscose production. In a study from Stockholm University, researchers chose four groups of substances related to health risks and tested them for "occurrence, quantity From environmental standpoint I have seen people claim viscose is better for the environment than cotton, and others claiming it's just as bad or worse. However, the production of viscose has significant environmental and social drawbacks. We would like to show you a description here but the site won’t allow us. Although the fabric itself is quite similar to viscose, the manufacturing process is much more sustainable. com Jun 20, 2025 · The most common method for producing viscose involves the use of carbon disulfide, a toxic chemical that can have severe health and environmental impacts. But it is a toxic compound that has been linked to neurological damage in exposed workers, as well as causing environmental contamination. If you Jan 7, 2025 · Explore why viscose is bad, unveiling its environmental impact and the truth behind its silky allure! Is cotton or polyester better? Dec 13, 2023 · Hey there, ever wondered if viscose fabric is a thorn in your side when it comes to skin health? Let's dive into the nitty-gritty. Apr 1, 2024 · Viscose fabrication involves a lot of energy, water, and toxic chemicals, such as carbon disulfide, sulfuric acid, ammonia, acetone, or caustic soda. Even though they look good and comfortable, they can be dangerous for your skin and your general health, from bad odors to skin, rashes, nausea, or something even worse. After the cellulose is dissolved in carbon disulfide, it is forced through a spinneret to create the fibers, which are then washed, dried, and spun into yarn. Is Viscose Better Than Cotton? Viscose is better than cotton because the plants used to make the fabric use less water and fertilizer than cotton Apr 24, 2023 · EcoVero is a type of viscose fabric first produced by Lenzing in 2017 and a regenerated cellulosic fiber similar to rayon, modal, acetate, cupro, and lyocell. However, organic bamboo fabrics produced via mechanical or lyocell methods are safer and more eco-friendly, avoiding toxic residues . Chemical Pollution Viscose factories release toxic substances into the air and water. The terms viscose and rayon are often used interchangeably because viscose is the predominant type of rayon fabric. Find out which materials to keep out of your closet. Carbon disulfide affects factory workers, nearby residents, and wildlife, and it can remain in the ecosystem for years. , Siew, S. , Tan, E. Is Viscose Toxic? Yes, viscose is toxic because it’s made from wood pulp with toxic chemicals. Aug 26, 2022 · This is the category that holds the majority of the skin-harming culprits. Jun 15, 2025 · Viscose, a regenerated cellulose material, has garnered mixed opinions; while the bamboo tree itself is non-toxic, issues arise during the viscose fabric production, leading to skepticism about marketing claims. Sometimes it’s labelled as at least somewhat sustainable due to its woody beginnings, and other times, it’s called out as totally harmful for the planet – so how is viscose really made, and how does this process really impact the planet? Sep 5, 2024 · Produced with non-toxic chemicals, bamboo viscose fabric is a safe option that will not lead to allergies or health issues. Jan 23, 2025 · From appearance and durability to sustainability, we’ll provide you with all the information needed. The fashion industry often markets viscose (also known as rayon) as a more sustainable fabric compared to nylon, polyester, or cotton. The synthetic material was all the rage when it hit the consumer market in the 1920s, just as the Jul 2, 2025 · Key takeaways Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber. Carbon disulphide, a toxic chemical, is used in viscose manufacturing. Nov 25, 2016 · In this slim, action-packed book, Paul David Blanc takes the reader on a historical tour that touches on chemistry, occupational health, and the maneuverings of multinational corporations. Also, viscose products are not typically the most durable which can in turn contribute to fashion’s enormous waste problem. I’ve read that Bamboo lyocell is the best option as it requires fewer chemicals to produce and can be done in a more closed-loop cleaner system. It is made from wood pulp, which is derived from fast-growing, regenerative trees such as eucalyptus, beech, and pine. They release toxic gases, carbon dioxide, and methane as they degrade, which contributes to pollution and global warming. Sometimes you may see “rayon” listed on a garment tag, and other times you may see “viscose. Carbon disulfide, a toxic chemical, is commonly used to treat the wood pulp, and its release into the air and water can have devastating effects on local ecosystems. In fact, only 30% of global viscose production meets basic sustainability standards. Viscose from bamboo is made using the same method as any other kind of viscose. Viscose is a popular fabric in the textile industry. While it sounds more natural, the production of the fabric is dangerous. By understanding the benefits of this versatile and renewable material - bamboo viscose, readers can make informed choices that contribute to a more sustainable future. . Dec 9, 2024 · Viscose fabric has both appealing qualities and troubling environmental impacts. Sci. While viscose rayon is biodegradable, its production involves the use of toxic chemicals, including carbon disulfide, sodium hydroxide, and sulfuric acid. ” Viscose rayon is most often called artificial silk because it has a smooth, luxurious feel that’s similar to real silk. Understand their unique properties and how they fare in sustainability, comfort, and wear. Jul 11, 2025 · Are bamboo sheets toxic? Discover the truth about bamboo viscose, manufacturing processes, and potential health benefits in our comprehensive guide. Manufacturers produce various types of garments and textile products using this fabric. Jan 31, 2021 · In order for this important issue to be addressed, either alternatives to the toxic chemicals used in viscose production must be found or an innovative shift to create sustainable alternatives to viscose must be encouraged. However, there’s hope. Jun 28, 2025 · Is bamboo viscose eco-friendly? While bamboo viscose is marketed as an absolutely eco-friendly fiber, I beg to differ. Aug 30, 2022 · This process uses toxic solvents to extract the plant cellulose from its source. Consumers can support sustainable viscose production by choosing clothing and products made from sustainably sourced viscose and by promoting transparency and accountability in the fashion industry. Is viscose non toxic? Is rayon non toxic? They are both certainly better for people and the earth than a petroleum-based fabric, but their overall health will depend on how they are processed and if harmful chemicals like are added in. I mean, right off the bat there are many issues when it comes to the manufacturing of bamboo viscose, and most of them have to do with the number of toxic chemicals involved. Blanc is also a consummate historian who skillfully weaves together the fibers of history, political economy, corporate intrigue, and Although bamboo is used in eco-friendly products, it’s processed with toxic chemicals when used to make rayon and other fabrics. It’s semi-synthetic. The production involves toxic chemicals like carbon disulfide and is resource-intensive. No toxic chemicals are involved in lyocell production. Feb 4, 2023 · Bamboo Fabric Guide – Is it really sustainable? The pros and cons of Bamboo textiles, their properties & manufacturing process explained. The process involves extracting cellulose, converting it into bamboo chips, and then soaking them until they transform into pulp. Jul 29, 2025 · 1. In terms of microfibers probably much better than polyester, spandex, and traditional rayon and viscose. Aug 25, 2022 · Viscose is a semi-synthetic fiber made from cellulose, but the chemical process can be harmful to the environment and health. Mar 7, 2022 · This material primer covers how viscose is made, what its environmental concerns are, and how to shop it sustainably (plus, 24 brands to check out). Is bamboo viscose the same as 100% bamboo? Imo polyester Viscose is rayon— Viscose is not much better though! It starts with plant matter, but the creation process is incredibly polluting and water and chemical intensive. Dec 7, 2024 · Discover the truth about viscose fabric. Viscose process: Most bamboo clothing uses viscose rayon, made by dissolving bamboo pulp in harsh chemicals like caustic soda and carbon disulfide. Viscose, or viscose rayon, was originally developed as an artificial alternative to silk. Although the production process of generic modal rayon uses the same methods and chemicals as conventional viscose, the Austrian company Lenzing produces its modal through a closed-loop process. However, its production involves harmful chemicals, massive water usage, and contributes to deforestation, which endangers ecosystems. How to Care for Cotton Fabrics? Is viscose better than cotton? Which is more expensive, viscose or cotton? Which is more eco-friendly, viscose or cotton? What are the disadvantages of viscose fabric? Is viscose toxic to the skin? Environmental Concerns The production of viscose has significant environmental implications, primarily due to the chemicals used in the manufacturing process. Jun 6, 2025 · Bamboo viscose claims eco-friendliness, but is it truly sustainable? Discover the hidden truths that could change your perspective. Is viscose good to wear? Or Is Viscose Bad for Skin? Dec 11, 2023 · Viscose One fabric that is subjected to greenwashing more than any other is viscose. 8 A 2010 study comparing the environmental Jun 12, 2023 · Is Bamboo Viscose eco-friendly and sustainable or just a greenwashed fabric? This Bamboo Viscose 101 guide has all the answers. Jul 18, 2025 · Another variation of viscose is bamboo viscose, which is made in the same way using cellulose derived from the bamboo plant. Aug 16, 2021 · Rayon and Viscose Similar in composition, rayon and viscose are both chemically converted from wood pulp. And to create silk-like properties, conventional manufacturers put the raw plant-based materials through energy and chemically intensive processes. Jun 24, 2021 · Tags & Packaging Viscose sheets from Cozy Earth are described as "100% bamboo" and "bamboo fabric" on the hang tag, with a viscose mention in the last paragraph. The latter of these is the pulp from a tree, which is turned into a viscous material during the production process, hence the name. Feb 19, 2025 · The process to transform bamboo into the soft, silky fabric used in sheets, pajamas, baby clothes, and activewear is highly chemical-intensive, similar to how rayon or modal is made. Explore its uses, sustainability, and whether it's worth wearing. Is Viscose Biodegradable? Yes, viscose is biodegradable. Bamboo Viscose (also known as bamboo rayon) is also known as 'regenerated bamboo', and is a regenerated cellulose fiber that has recently appeared on the market for textiles for apparel and home furnishings. [ref 5] Unacceptable to consumers and workers Viscose vs Rayon: A Comprehensive Comparison Our detailed comparison unpacks the origins, production processes, and characteristics of both fibers. This means viscose is a fabric that is not quite natural, yet not quite synthetic either, but somewhere in between. In addition to all that, its production is heavily polluting the environment. Bamboo viscose is soft, breathable, and biodegradable under the right conditions. , & Truscott, L. First produced in 1905, viscose rayon is seen as an affordable Nov 7, 2022 · Viscose is a semi-synthetic fabric made with cellulose. Think of it like plant-based plastics—it comes from a natural source, but the end product is far from pure. kbcx jwcrj jfze zjujewl kufs nhmfv qnigkzk gdzdn rzjzp nkmd