Rayon is a man-made fabric that is commonly used in clothing and other textiles. One of the main properties of rayon is that it is a very breathable fabric, allowing air flow and preventing overheating. But how breathable is rayon compared to other common fabrics like cotton and linen? In this complete guide, we will examine rayon’s breathability and how it compares to other fabrics.
Table of Contents
What Is Rayon?
Rayon is a semi-synthetic fabric made from cellulose fibers, primarily from wood pulp. The cellulose is chemically processed to produce long fibers that can be spun into yarns and threads.
Some key properties of rayon:
- Made from renewable materials (wood pulp and cotton)
- Soft, smooth texture that drapes well
- Absorbent, breathable, and comfortable to wear
- Dyes easily and produces vivid colors
- Mimics the feel and texture of natural fabrics like silk
- Lower cost than natural fabrics
- Wrinkles easily unless treated
Rayon has been used in clothing and household items since the late 19th century. It rose in popularity as a substitute for silk. Today it is commonly blended with cotton, polyester, and other fibers. Some common examples of rayon fabrics are viscose, modal, and lyocell.
Is Rayon Breathable?
Yes, rayon is a highly breathable fabric. The fibers wick moisture away from the body and allow air flow through the material. This breathability makes rayon a good choice for clothing meant for hot and humid climates.
Rayon’s breathability comes from its loose weave or knit patterns. The spaces between the fibers allow air to pass through the fabric. Rayon is more breathable than tightly woven fabrics like denim or flannel. But rayon is less breathable compared to loose, open weave fabrics like linen and mesh.
When sweat or moisture is present, rayon effectively absorbs the liquid while also drying quickly. This moisture wicking property helps rayon fabrics feel cool against the skin, especially in summer months.
How Does Rayon’s Breathability Compare to Other Fabrics?
Here is how rayon’s breathability compares to some other common apparel fabrics:
Vs. Cotton
- Rayon is more breathable than cotton. The cotton fibers are more dense and tightly woven together.
- Cotton absorbs moisture but dries slowly. Rayon absorbs moisture but dries quickly.
- In hot weather, cotton can become heavy with sweat and cling to the body. Rayon remains light and airy.
- For maximum breathability, choose loose weave rayon or cotton/rayon blends.
Vs. Linen
- Rayon and linen have similar breathability. Both are lightweight and loose weave.
- Linen is extremely air permeable, while rayon is slightly less so.
- Linen wrinkles more easily than rayon. But rayon can sometimes feel sticky or clammy.
- For most wearers, linen and rayon shirts and dresses feel equally cool.
Vs. Silk
- Rayon is more breathable than silk. Silk has a fine, tight weave that traps heat.
- Rayon absorbs moisture better than silk. Silk tends to cling when wet.
- Rayon is the budget alternative to silk’s luxurious drape and feel.
Vs. Polyester
- Rayon is much more breathable than polyester. Polyester is hydrophobic and doesn’t absorb moisture.
- Polyester retains body heat and can be uncomfortably hot for summer wear.
- Rayon is a natural fiber alternative to synthetic polyester.
Vs. Nylon
- Rayon is far more breathable than nylon. The nylon fibers are very tightly woven.
- Nylon does not absorb moisture, so sweat is retained rather than wicked away.
- Nylon’s non-breathability makes it a good fabric choice for outerwear meant to block wind and rain. But it can be quite uncomfortable when worn close to the skin.
How to Choose the Most Breathable Rayon Clothing
Not all rayon fabrics have the same level of breathability. Here are some tips for choosing rayon clothing that will be maximize airflow and comfort:
1. Look for loose, open weaves: Tightly woven rayon is less permeable to air. Open, gauzy weaves allow maximum breathability.
2. Choose rayon wovens over knits: Knit rayons like jersey tend to be more clinging, especially when wet with sweat. Lightweight wovens offer better drape away from the body.
3. Read garment labels: Labels with terms like “extra fine weave” indicate the fabric will be less permeable. “Open weave” means very breathable.
4. Select rayon blends: Combining rayon with cotton, linen, silk, or nylon can optimize the fabric’s comfort and breathability. Look for at least 50% rayon content.
5. Consider fabric weight: In general, lighter weight rayon fabrics will be cooler and more breathable than dense, heavy ones.
6. Look for specialty fabrics: Rayon variants like viscose voile and bamboo rayon optimize breathability and moisture wicking.
Caring for Rayon Clothing
To maximize the longevity of rayon clothing, special care is required:
- Hand or machine wash cool, delicate cycle. Avoid twisting and wringing.
- Hang dry or lay flat. Avoid high heat drying that can damage rayon fibers.
- Use a cool iron on the appropriate fabric setting. Excessive heat causes scorching.
- Avoid bleach, which weakens rayon fabrics over time.
- Dry clean only if the garment label specifies. Most rayons can be home washed.
- Fold and store rayon properly to prevent stretching and wrinkling.
Conclusion
Rayon’s breathable, moisture-wicking properties make it an excellent choice for blouses, dresses, and other hot weather apparel. It offers comfort and ease of wear surpassing fabrics like polyester and silk. For most shoppers, rayon provides a good balance of affordability, durability, and breathability. With proper selection and care, rayon clothing makes an ideal addition to anyone’s warm weather wardrobe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rayon more breathable than cotton?
Yes, rayon is more breathable than cotton. Rayon’s looser weave allows more air to pass through the fabric. Cotton absorbs moisture but is slower to dry out.
What is the most breathable rayon fabric?
Viscose rayon and bamboo rayon are considered the most breathable types of rayon fabric. They have an open, gauzy weave that maximizes airflow.
Is viscose rayon breathable?
Yes, viscose rayon is highly breathable and moisture-wicking. The fibers are made using a special spinning process that results in a loose, cool-wearing fabric.
Is rayon cooler than linen?
Rayon and linen have comparable breathability. Both fabrics have a lightweight, loose weave that allows air permeability. Users may perceive linen to be slightly cooler, but rayon and linen are among the most breathable fabrics.
Can rayon be worn in summer?
Yes, the breathable properties of rayon make it an excellent fabric choice for summer clothing. Lightweight rayon dresses, blouses, skirts, and pants allow plenty of airflow to keep the wearer cool.
