Viscose & Other Silk-Like Fibers in Your Rugs – What You Need to Know

By Lynn Tall. Rug Advocate®

Real silk (spun from silk worms) is a very expensive fiber. That’s why you can find so many types of less expensive imitation silk fibers in modern rug manufacturing. These various silk-like yarns are called many things: art-silk, bamboo silk, banana silk, coconut silk, viscose, tencel, mercerized cotton, and faux soie. None of these wear or respond to cleaning like real silk does.
Like wool, real silk is a protein-based fiber. It’s fine and soft, but it’s hearty and can take some wear. Unlike real silk, imitation silk fibers are all plant-based, lower-performing fibers. They are also fine and soft, but are more susceptible to premature UV/sunlight fading, texture change with light to moderate use, and discoloration with exposure to moisture.
It’s ok if you have purchased or are about to purchase a rug with faux silk fibers!