Tencel in clothing and how the fibre feels against the skin
Short answer: What is Tencel? It is a brand name for lyocell, a fibre made from wood cellulose that is often described as smooth and soft against the skin. Here you get an explanation of how the fibre behaves and what to think about when choosing sleepwear.
What is Tencel
Tencel is the brand name for fibres of the lyocell and modal types, both made from cellulose from wood. The raw material is turned into a fibre that can be spun into yarn and woven or knitted into fabric. Like bamboo viscose, it is therefore a fibre made from plant material, not a natural fibre in its pure form.
How Tencel feels against the skin
The fibre is often described as smooth, cool and soft, and the fabric drapes gently. That is why many choose it for sleepwear and bedding, where the fabric lies close to the skin for many hours. How it feels to you is personal, so try one piece first. See bamboo sleepwear for women.
Tencel compared with bamboo viscose
Bamboo in clothing is viscose made from bamboo, so the two fibres resemble each other: both are made from plant cellulose, both drape softly, and both can feel pleasant on the skin. The difference lies in the raw material and the production. Which you prefer comes down mostly to drape, thickness and your own feel.
Moisture and warmth during the night
Cellulose fibres such as Tencel and bamboo viscose can absorb moisture and release it again, and many find them airy. That can be pleasant if you sweat at night. How well it works also depends on the thickness of the fabric, the knit or weave and what you have on the bed.
Care so the fibre keeps its softness
Wash clothes as the label says, and choose a gentle cycle. Avoid high heat, which can make the fabric stiff, and use a mild detergent. Turn the clothes inside out so the surface wears less. That way pajamas for women in soft fabric can keep their smoothness for longer.
When wet, the fibre is weaker
Cellulose fibres can be weaker when wet, so do not wring clothes out, and hang them with plenty of room. Let them dry flat or on a hanger so they are not stretched. A quick look at the drying symbol on the label tells you whether the item can go in the tumble dryer, and otherwise air drying is the safe choice.
How to read a label with several fibres
Many products blend fibres, such as Tencel with cotton, elastane or bamboo viscose. The label shows the composition, and that is what you should go by rather than the name of the product. That is also why we only name a fibre once we have read the product's own material list. Have a look at bamboo loungewear for women too.
Who Tencel suits
Tencel suits you if you like a smooth, cool feel and prefer clothes that fall loosely. If you are unsure, start with one piece of sleepwear. If you have a skin condition or react to clothing, talk to your doctor about what is most suitable.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tencel the same as bamboo
No. Tencel is a brand name for fibres made from wood cellulose, while bamboo in clothing is viscose made from bamboo. They resemble each other because both are cellulose fibres, but the raw material is different.
Is Tencel warm or cool to sleep in
Many describe it as cool and airy, but it depends on the thickness of the fabric and how warm you sleep. Try one piece and feel how it works in your own bedroom.
How do I wash clothes with Tencel
Always follow the label. Wash gently without high heat, do not wring the clothes out, and let them dry flat or on a hanger so the fibre keeps its softness and shape.
