What is Tencel Fabric? 

If you have recently shopped for bedding or clothing, you’ve likely come across products made of lyocell or modal, also known as Tencel or Tencel Lyocell. Tencel is a new fabric that is quickly becoming a popular replacement for cotton. It is incredibly soft, durable, versatile, and more eco-friendly than rayon and even cotton.

But what is Tencel fabric and how is it produced? To help you better understand the specifics of this material and make more informed purchasing decisions, we explain the ins and outs of Tencel production and the benefits of this material.

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What Is Tencel and How Is It Made?

The brand name Tencel is used to describe two types of materials—lyocell and modal. These two fabrics are very similar and are frequently used in bedding and clothing.

Tencel is made of wood cellulose fibers, more specifically, wood pulp. These fibers are what the textile industry calls “regenerated” because they are left to dissolve in a chemical solvent, called N-Methylmorpholine N-oxide, and then pushed through an extruder to form long fibers. Lastly, these fibers go through a drying process called spinning before they are spun into yarn and woven into cloth.

Tencel is similar to viscose rayon because it is produced in a similar way. However, unlike Tencel, rayon manufacturing requires toxic chemicals and high energy levels, making it harder on the environment and production workers.

In comparison, manufacturing Tencel requires less water, energy, and dye than both cotton and rayon. Tencel manufacturers can recycle chemical solvents throughout the production process, creating very little waste. This is known as a closed loop process because the chemical solvents used in Tencel production are recycled with a 99.5 percent recovery rate.

Since the wood pulp for Tencel is harvested with sustainable methods approved by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), this material also has minimal impact on the environment.

Types of Tencel Fibers

Tencel comes in two primary forms: lyocell and modal. Additionally, Tencel is often combined with other materials like cotton or polyester to create blends that balance the unique qualities of each fiber.

a. Tencel Lyocell

Lyocell is the latest advancement in the rayon family, produced with a nontoxic solvent instead of the harmful chemicals traditionally used in rayon manufacturing.

An eco-friendly choice, lyocell production recaptures and reuses 99% of the solvent, making it a highly sustainable option.

Lyocell is typically sourced from sustainably grown eucalyptus trees and is widely used in Tencel bed sheet sets for its soft, breathable qualities.

b. Tencel Modal

Tencel Modal is a modernized version of traditional rayon, prized for its superior durability, especially when wet, even in lightweight fabrics.

Sourced primarily from beech wood, the modal manufacturing process does involve harsher chemicals than lyocell, but the resulting fabric is often more durable and better suited to machine washing and drying.

Modal’s added strength makes it popular for apparel that benefits from both comfort and resilience.

c. Tencel Blends

Tencel fibers are frequently blended with materials such as cotton or polyester.

These blends create a fabric that combines the best characteristics of each fiber, often at a more affordable price.

Because Tencel can be relatively expensive, blending helps lower the cost while retaining much of its breathability, smoothness, and moisture-wicking properties.

d. Tencel vs. Other Fabrics

• Tencel vs. Cotton

When choosing sleep products, many consumers weigh the similarities and differences between Tencel and cotton.

Both originate from natural plant fibers, but Tencel production is generally more eco-friendly, requiring less water and fewer pesticides.

Both materials are known for their durability, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties; however, Tencel has a slight edge in terms of temperature regulation.

Most Tencel sheets feature a sateen weave—a pattern that places one thread under and three or four threads over—resulting in a smooth, slightly lustrous finish.

While some cotton sheets also use a sateen weave, cotton is available in a broader range of weaves and knits, such as percale, twill, and jersey, each offering distinct benefits in terms of feel and performance.

Cotton is typically low-maintenance, as it can withstand higher washing and drying temperatures.

By contrast, Tencel usually requires gentler laundering at lower temperatures. In terms of price, Tencel products often fall between standard cotton and high-end Egyptian cotton items, offering a quality choice without the premium price of luxury cotton options.

• Tencel vs. Polyester

Polyester, a synthetic fiber, contrasts sharply with Tencel in terms of feel and environmental impact.

While polyester is durable, inexpensive, and resistant to shrinking, it lacks the breathability and moisture-wicking qualities that Tencel naturally provides.

Polyester also has a rougher texture, which can lead to discomfort compared to Tencel’s softness.

Tencel is biodegradable and created with eco-conscious processes, whereas polyester is petroleum-based and less sustainable over the long term.

• Tencel vs. Bamboo

Both Tencel and bamboo are celebrated for their sustainability and softness, but their production processes differ.

Bamboo fabric is often praised for its breathability and antimicrobial properties, though it can involve chemical-intensive production similar to rayon.

Tencel, especially lyocell, uses a more closed-loop process, reducing chemical waste and making it a greener choice.

Both fabrics are smooth and comfortable, with Tencel typically providing a lighter feel, while bamboo is known for its durability and resilience.

• Tencel vs. Linen

Linen, made from flax fibers, is also a popular natural fabric, known for its breathability and durability.

However, linen has a coarser texture than Tencel, which is softer and drapes more elegantly.

Tencel’s smoother feel and slight sheen make it particularly comfortable against the skin, while linen’s slightly rougher texture offers a more rustic aesthetic.

Linen can wrinkle easily, whereas Tencel’s fibers are less prone to creasing, making it a low-maintenance option with a refined look.

• Tencel vs. Rayon

Rayon is a broad class of fibers derived from cellulose, typically extracted from wood pulp, and then chemically processed to create a semi-synthetic material.

Developed in France in the 1890s, rayon was the first man-made fiber of its kind, bridging the gap between natural and synthetic materials.

Tencel lyocell and Tencel modal are both advanced forms of rayon. While all rayon types are manufactured from plant-based cellulose, Tencel lyocell stands out as the most environmentally conscious variant.

The lyocell production process uses a closed-loop system that reuses about 99% of its solvent, making it a more sustainable choice compared to traditional rayon production methods.

Benefits of Tencel

In addition to being a more sustainable fabric, Tencel has many other benefits. Below, we highlight why this material has become so popular.

• Breathability: According to Lenzing AG, the leading Tencel manufacturer in the US, Tencel is 50 percent more absorbent than cotton. This breathability makes it less likely for Tencel to develop bacteria and unpleasant odors. For this reason, activewear and high-quality bedding are often made with Tencel. If you are a hot sleeper, Tencel sheets can help increase the breathability of most high-quality mattresses.
• Wrinkle-resistant: Tencel is less likely to wrinkle than cotton. It also has a clean, modern look and a beautiful drape when used in loungewear.
• Softness: Tencel modal is incredibly soft, making it the perfect fabric for sheets and sleepwear. In fact, many customers find this material to be softer than cotton and cotton-poly blends.
• Holds dye: Tencel holds dye better than cotton, so this material is less likely to fade with washing.
• Versatile: Tencel can easily be blended with other fibers, such as cotton and polyester, to increase softness. For example, many denim brands now use a Tencel-cotton blend to make their products more comfortable.
• Eco-Friendly Production: Tencel is produced with an environmentally responsible closed-loop process, meaning that up to 99% of solvents and water used are recovered and recycled, minimizing waste and pollution.
• Biodegradability: Tencel fibers are fully biodegradable and compostable, which means they decompose naturally without leaving harmful residues, making it an ideal option for those looking to reduce environmental impact.
• Durability: Despite its softness, Tencel is known for its strength and durability, providing a long-lasting material that withstands repeated washing and wear without losing quality.
• Moisture-Wicking Properties: In addition to breathability, Tencel is highly moisture-wicking, drawing sweat away from the skin. This feature keeps wearers feeling cool and dry, making it an excellent choice for both activewear and hot climates.
• Hypoallergenic: Tencel is naturally hypoallergenic, reducing the risk of irritation for sensitive skin. Its smooth fibers and the absence of chemicals in its production also contribute to its gentle feel.
• Luxurious Feel: Tencel’s silky texture provides a luxurious look and feel, making it a premium choice for high-end apparel, bedding, and home textiles.
• Temperature Regulation: Tencel has excellent temperature-regulating properties, which means it adapts to the body’s heat and helps maintain a balanced, comfortable body temperature in various weather conditions.

Drawbacks of Tencel

• Cost: Tencel products are often more expensive than those made from cotton or polyester. The eco-friendly production process and advanced technology involved in making Tencel fibers contribute to its higher cost, which may be a limitation for budget-conscious consumers.
• Limited Availability: While Tencel is growing in popularity, it is still not as widely available as cotton or polyester. This can make finding a wide selection of Tencel-based products more challenging, especially in certain regions or specific product categories.
• Sensitive to Heat: Tencel can be sensitive to high heat and may shrink or lose shape if exposed to excessively hot water or dryers. It’s best to wash and dry Tencel on gentle, low-heat settings to preserve its quality, which may require more attention than some other fabrics.
• Potential for Pilling: While Tencel is strong, it can be prone to pilling, especially when blended with other fibers. This can affect the fabric’s appearance over time, especially with heavy use or frequent washing.
• Chemical Processing Concerns: Although Tencel is produced in an eco-friendly way, the initial stage of production does involve chemicals. Some consumers may prefer completely untreated natural fibers over those that require any chemical processing, even if the process is closed-loop and minimizes environmental impact.
• Water Absorbency in Activewear: Although Tencel is moisture-wicking, it is also highly absorbent, which may not be ideal for all types of activewear. Some users might find it becomes too saturated in high-intensity workouts compared to synthetics designed specifically for rapid drying.
• Limited Durability in Blends: While Tencel on its own is durable, it can sometimes compromise durability when blended with weaker fibers. For instance, in some Tencel-cotton blends, the fabric might wear out faster than pure cotton.

Is Tencel a Natural Fiber?

Tencel is a semi-synthetic fiber made from natural sources, specifically wood pulp, typically derived from eucalyptus, beech, or spruce trees.

While it originates from a natural source, the process to transform wood pulp into Tencel fibers involves chemical processing, making it a “man-made” fiber, rather than fully natural like cotton or wool.

The production process uses a solvent spinning technique, which is eco-friendly due to its closed-loop system.

This system recycles up to 99% of the chemicals and water used, minimizing environmental impact.

Because of its natural origin and sustainable processing, Tencel is often considered more eco-friendly and closer to natural fibers compared to traditional synthetics like polyester or nylon, even though it’s not purely natural.

Tencel’s Environmental Impact: A Closer Look

Tencel is widely recognized for its eco-friendly production and lower environmental impact compared to many traditional fabrics. Here’s a breakdown of the factors that contribute to Tencel’s environmental profile:

• Sustainable Raw Material: Tencel is derived from wood pulp, primarily sourced from eucalyptus, beech, or spruce trees, which are renewable resources. These trees are often grown on sustainably managed farms and require less water and pesticides compared to cotton.
• Closed-Loop Production Process: One of the most significant environmental benefits of Tencel is its closed-loop production process. This means that up to 99% of the solvents and water used to dissolve wood pulp into fibers are recovered and reused, drastically reducing waste and pollution. The main solvent, amine oxide, is non-toxic and biodegradable, which contributes to a cleaner production cycle.
• Reduced Water and Energy Use: Producing Tencel typically requires less water and energy than producing cotton. Cotton farming is water-intensive, whereas Tencel’s production process conserves water, making it a more sustainable alternative for areas facing water scarcity.
• Biodegradability: Tencel fibers are fully biodegradable and compostable, which means they break down naturally and return to the earth without leaving harmful residues, unlike synthetic materials like polyester that can linger in landfills for hundreds of years.
• Low Carbon Footprint: The controlled sourcing of wood and the efficient use of resources in Tencel’s production help keep its carbon footprint lower than that of many other fabrics. Some Tencel fibers are certified as carbon-neutral, further reducing their environmental impact.
• FSC and PEFC Certification: Tencel fibers are often certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) or the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), which ensure that the wood used comes from responsibly managed forests.

While Tencel’s environmental impact is generally positive, there are still some considerations. The production process does involve chemicals, although the closed-loop system minimizes their release into the environment.

Additionally, like any commercial crop, large-scale eucalyptus or beech tree farming requires careful management to avoid monoculture and its associated environmental challenges.

Uses and Applications of Tencel Fabrics

Tencel’s versatility, softness, and sustainability make it suitable for a wide range of applications across fashion, home textiles, and specialized industries. Here’s a look at some of the most popular uses for Tencel fabrics:

1. Apparel and Fashion:

Tencel’s softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties make it ideal for clothing. It is commonly used in:

• Activewear: Tencel’s breathability and ability to wick moisture make it a great choice for sportswear and yoga clothes, helping to keep wearers cool and comfortable.
• Loungewear and Sleepwear: Its smooth texture and softness are perfect for pajamas, robes, and other loungewear that requires a comfortable feel against the skin.
• Denim: Many denim brands blend Tencel with cotton to produce softer, more comfortable jeans that drape well and maintain durability.
• Everyday Wear: Tencel is frequently used in shirts, blouses, dresses, and other casual wear because of its luxurious feel and modern appearance. It’s wrinkle-resistant, lightweight, and easy to maintain.

2. Home Textiles:

Tencel is increasingly popular in home goods due to its breathability, hypoallergenic qualities, and softness. Common applications include:

• Bedding: Tencel sheets, pillowcases, and duvet covers are loved for their coolness and silky feel, making them ideal for hot sleepers. The material’s moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties also help reduce odors and allergens.
• Towels: Tencel’s absorbency and quick-drying abilities make it suitable for towels and bath linens. It is gentle on the skin and resistant to bacterial growth, providing a fresh, soft feel with each use.
• Upholstery and Drapes: Tencel’s durability and resistance to wrinkles make it a good choice for furniture upholstery and window treatments, where it provides a clean, modern look.

3. Industrial Applications:

Beyond clothing and home textiles, Tencel has niche applications in specialized fields, such as:

• Medical Textiles: Tencel’s hypoallergenic and antibacterial properties make it suitable for medical textiles, including bandages, wound dressings, and hospital linens, where cleanliness and comfort are essential.
• Eco-Friendly Packaging: Tencel fibers are sometimes used in sustainable packaging solutions due to their biodegradability, allowing brands to reduce plastic waste.

4. Blending with Other Fibers:

Tencel blends well with other materials, such as cotton, wool, silk, and synthetic fibers like polyester. This blending allows manufacturers to enhance softness, durability, and comfort across a range of products, from high-end fashion to affordable everyday items.

Conclusion

As many brands shift to more eco-friendly practices, we will likely see more Tencel products on the market. For consumers, this is great news. Tencel is better for the planet, but it also creates soft, more breathable, and more durable products.

Although Tencel items cost slightly more than cotton and cotton-poly products, you’ll find that Tencel lasts longer and provides more overall comfort.