Wood fibres in bedding and where lyocell fits among them
Short answer: Lyocell is a wood fibre that, like viscose, is made from cellulose but by a different route. In bedding it can feel smooth and cool, and it belongs to the same family as viscose from bamboo, so it is worth reading the label.
What wood fibres in bedding are
Wood fibres are fibres made from the cellulose of wood or other plants and processed into threads, which can be woven into sheets and covers. The group includes viscose, modal and lyocell. They belong to the same family but are made in different ways. See the range of bamboo bedding to compare the materials.
Lyocell and how it differs
Lyocell is the newest of the three and is made from dissolved cellulose, often from wood such as eucalyptus. Like viscose it is a regenerated cellulose fibre, but the production method is different. Many find lyocell smooth and cool, but that depends on how the fabric is woven.
How viscose differs
Viscose from bamboo is made from the cellulose of the plant and often has a soft and fluid look. The difference between viscose and lyocell can be hard to feel on dry sheets, so read the label and the description. Both can be used for bedding, but they behave differently in the wash and after much use.
How it feels in bed
What you feel in bed depends on the fibre but also on the weave and the thickness. A tightly woven fabric often feels smoother, while a looser weave can feel softer and airier. Compare sheets by both fibre and weave, and remember that your own sense of softness is personal.
Washing and caring for bedding
Follow the care label, because wood fibres can have different requirements for temperature and drying. Turn the cover inside out and do not overfill the machine, so the fabric can move freely. Hang it to dry if you want to avoid creases and keep the surface, and iron according to the instructions.
The bedroom as a whole
If you want a uniform feel in the bedroom, you can combine the bedding with a bamboo dressing gown for men, made of the same type of fibre. Think about how the fabrics feel together and choose by what suits your climate and your sleep. It is personal, and there is no single right choice.
How to compare on the label
Read the composition, the weave and the care instructions when you compare. Lyocell can appear as lyocell or under brand names, and viscose can appear as viscose or bamboo. Compare on the same basis and ask the retailer if something is unclear. You can also see all bamboo socks for men in the same type of fabric.
What you can do in practice
Try a single set of bedding first and feel for yourself how you sleep in it. If you like it, you can add more sets. Keep the label from what you like so you can compare next time and avoid buying something that does not suit you.
Frequently asked questions
Is lyocell the same as viscose?
No, but they are related, because both are regenerated cellulose fibres. They are made in different ways and can feel different in use.
Is lyocell better than bamboo in bedding?
That cannot be said in general. Both can be soft, and the difference depends on weave, thickness and your own experience.
How do I wash bedding made of wood fibres?
Follow the care label, turn the cover inside out and do not overfill the machine.
