If you’re exploring natural fabrics and trying to build a more conscious wardrobe, you might already be familiar with organic cotton, hemp, or linen. But recently I came across TENCEL™, and I wanted to learn more about what makes it special — and whether it really lives up to the hype.
As I looked into it, I found out that TENCEL™ is more than just a trendy name. It’s soft, breathable, and designed with sustainability in mind. Let me share what I’ve learned so far — and some things I’m still discovering.
What Is TENCEL™, Really?
TENCEL™ is a branded version of lyocell (and modal) fiber produced by the Austrian company Lenzing. What sets it apart is that it’s made from sustainably sourced wood pulp — usually eucalyptus, beech, or spruce trees — and processed in a closed-loop system that recycles 99% of the water and solvents used.
That means much less waste, less pollution, and a much lower environmental impact compared to many other fabrics out there.
What Makes TENCEL™ Stand Out
Here’s what I found most interesting while exploring this fabric:
- It feels amazing – Incredibly soft, smooth, and cool to the touch. It’s often used in clothing for sensitive skin or for sleepwear.
- It breathes well – TENCEL™ naturally wicks moisture, which helps you stay dry and comfortable.
- It’s strong yet lightweight – One study even highlights that TENCEL™ fibers have high strength, allowing them to be spun into very fine but durable yarns.¹
- It’s better for the planet – TENCEL™ fibers are biodegradable and compostable, and the manufacturing process is far more eco-friendly than many synthetic alternatives.²
- It reduces energy use – Compared to cotton, TENCEL™ uses up to 40% less non-renewable energy during production.³
So, Is TENCEL™ Perfect? Not Quite—But Still Promising
In learning about TENCEL™, I also came across a few important distinctions. For instance, while TENCEL™ is a lyocell fiber, not all lyocell fabrics are created equally. Only the TENCEL™-branded ones are produced under the strict, environmentally responsible standards that Lenzing uses.⁴
This is important because other types of lyocell may be made with unsustainable wood sources or may include fiber blends that reduce their eco-friendliness. It’s a good reminder that labels matter, and being informed as a shopper is part of making better choices.
Another nuance: although the process used to make TENCEL™ is considered environmentally friendly, there are still some chemicals and dyes involved in the final production of the fabric, just like with most materials. So while it’s a strong step in the right direction, it’s not completely impact-free.
But overall, when I compare it to rayon or traditional synthetic fibers, the difference is significant. Rayon, for example, often requires more toxic chemicals and wastes more water, which can be harmful to both workers and the environment.⁴
In contrast, TENCEL™ is designed with a circular production system, where 99% of chemicals and solvents are recovered and reused, dramatically lowering its environmental footprint.
Why I’m Excited About It
As someone who’s trying to be more mindful about what I wear and recommend, I find TENCEL™ really promising. It’s one of those materials that checks so many boxes—comfort, durability, and a more thoughtful production process.
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References
- Wang, Ya, et al. (2015). Analysis of the Spinning Process and Properties of Tencel Yarn. Journal of Minerals and Materials Characterization and Engineering, vol. 3, pp. 41-47. https://doi.org/10.4236/jmmce.2015.31006
- Treehugger. (2021). Tencel: Is This Sustainable Fabric Too Good to Be True? Retrieved from https://www.treehugger.com/what-is-tencel-5198098
- Wired. (2020). What Exactly Is Lyocell Fabric, and Is It Really Eco-Friendly? Retrieved from https://www.wired.com/story/what-is-lyocell-fabric
- Lenzing Group. (2024). TENCEL™ Lyocell Fiber Snapshot. Retrieved from https://b2b.tencel.com