The present status of the observational evidence about mass loss in visual binary and multiple systems is reviewed. Particular emphasis is placed on the importance of mass-loss rates measures in these stars, as a systematic study would provide useful constraints in two fields. First, as mass-outflows processes are not modified by the interaction of the two stars, and distances, masses, and evolutionary stages are usually fairly good known, an absolute stellar scale for Open image in new window can more easily and accurately be derived for these systems. Second, Open image in new window rates are essential to study the detailed orbital evolution of wide pairs, providing clues to their origin. Detailed numerical simulations including mass loss have been carried out. It is suggested that mass loss may explain in part the recent statistics on separation of wide visual binaries as a function of spectral type and age.