Tencel lyocell and why the material is mentioned so often
Short answer: Tencel is a brand name for lyocell and modal from the producer Lenzing, which is why you often come across the name in bedding and clothing. Lyocell is a cellulose fibre, and the name Tencel tells you who made the fibre, not how the fabric feels.
What Tencel is
Tencel is a trademark used for fibres from Lenzing, including lyocell and modal. It is not a special fibre but the name of one producer's fibres. When a product says Tencel lyocell, it means the fibre is lyocell from that particular producer. See the range of bamboo bedding to compare materials.
Why the name appears so often
Because Tencel is a well-known brand, the name is used in marketing and on labels, and that is why many people know it. The name is easy to remember and says something about where the fibre comes from. That does not mean other lyocell fibres are worse, only that they carry a different name.
Tencel lyocell and viscose side by side
Both lyocell and viscose are regenerated cellulose fibres, but they are made in different ways. Tencel lyocell can feel smooth and cool, while viscose from bamboo often feels soft and fluid. The difference depends on weave, thickness and yarn, though, so compare by the fabric and not just the name.
What you can read on the label
The label may say Tencel, lyocell or both, and here it matters to read the composition. See whether the fabric is pure or a blend and how large a share the fibre makes up. If there is only a name with no percentage, you can ask the retailer.
Bedding and Tencel
In bedding, lyocell is often used for sheets and covers, where a smooth and cool look is wanted. Feel for yourself whether it suits your sleep, because how a fabric feels at night is personal. For the night you can look at sleepwear if you want the same feel from head to toe.
Washing and care
Always follow the care label and turn the bedding inside out. Fibres such as lyocell can have different requirements for temperature and drying, so read the symbols. Avoid high heat if the instructions say so and hang it to dry to keep the surface.
Can you tell brands apart
It can be hard to feel the difference between lyocell from different producers without comparing them directly. What feels good is personal, and weave and thickness matter as much as the brand. Try a single piece first and then choose by your own experience.
Together with the rest of the wardrobe
If you want the same feel throughout the home, you can combine the bedding with soft fabrics elsewhere. See for example all bamboo socks for men in the same kind of viscose. Think about what you use them for and choose by what suits your life.
Frequently asked questions
Is Tencel the same as lyocell?
Tencel is a trademark used for lyocell and modal from Lenzing. Lyocell is the fibre itself, and Tencel is the name of the producer's version.
Is Tencel lyocell better than viscose?
That cannot be said in general. The fibres are made differently, but the experience depends on weave, thickness and your own perception.
How do I wash bedding made of lyocell?
Follow the care label, turn the bedding inside out and avoid high heat if the instructions say so.
