Viscose (“Art Silk”) Rugs: Why They Yellow, and What Cleaning Can Do

Viscose rugs are soft, shiny and affordable, which is why they’re so popular. They’re also one of the hardest rugs to clean. Here is why they yellow, shed and mark so easily, what to do after a spill, and how we handle them.

What viscose actually is

Viscose (also sold as rayon, “art silk”, “bamboo silk” or “banana silk”) is a manufactured fiber made from regenerated cellulose, usually wood pulp. It is made to imitate the look of silk at a fraction of the cost. Many rugs sold as silk or silk blends are actually viscose, so the first step in any cleaning is identifying the fiber.

Why viscose rugs are hard to clean

• They yellow or brown when wet. Cellulose fibers can turn yellow or brown when they get wet and dry slowly. A spilled drink, a pet accident or an over-wet cleaning attempt can leave a yellow ring.
• The fibers are weak. Viscose fibers break easily, so the rug sheds and the pile wears down in traffic paths and under furniture.
• The pile crushes and mats. Rubbing a spot, or cleaning against the pile direction, can leave a permanent dull or flattened patch.
• Dyes can bleed. Viscose doesn’t always hold dye well, so colors can run when the rug gets wet.
• The rug can stiffen after cleaning if it isn’t rinsed, dried and groomed correctly.

What to do after a spill

1. Blot, don’t rub. Press a clean white towel on the spot and lift; rubbing distorts the pile.
2. Use as little water as possible. Don’t pour water or carpet shampoo on the rug, and avoid household spot removers.
3. Help it dry quickly. Raise the area off the floor if you can, and run a fan.
4. Don’t scrub a mark that’s already yellow. More water and friction usually make it worse. Call for an inspection instead.

How we clean viscose and silk rugs

We never clean viscose or silk rugs in your home. They go to a professional rug cleaning facility, where the rug can be cleaned and dried under controlled conditions. Before anything is cleaned, the rug is inspected: fiber, dye stability, existing wear, shedding and any yellowing are checked and pointed out to you. The cleaning method is chosen after that inspection.

Some problems, like existing yellowing, worn traffic paths or color that has already bled, may only partly improve, and some can’t be reversed. We’ll tell you what we see before any work is done, and we can’t guarantee that every stain or color change will come out.

Rug Pickup & Delivery

Complimentary rug pickup and delivery is available for most orders within our regular service areas. Fees may apply depending on location and order details.

Get a free estimate

Send us a photo of the rug, its size, and the label if it has one, or call 818-808-0123. You’ll get a clear quote before any work begins. See all of our area rug cleaning options, and if a pet has had an accident on the rug, read our guide to pet urine in area rugs.

Sources: Cleanfax, “Viscose Rayon Rugs” (cleanfax.com); general fiber characteristics of regenerated cellulose (rayon). General information; results depend on each rug’s fiber, dyes and condition.