What is TENCEL™? Find out more about a leading sustainable fibre

When we talk about TENCEL™, we’re actually referring to the brand of material.

TENCEL™ is an Austrian manufacturer creating TENCEL™ lyocell and modal fibres from sustainably sourced FSC and PEFC certified wood. The TENCEL™ lyocell and modal are semi-synthetic fibres used for clothing, bedding, and other textiles.

What’s the difference between TENCEL™Lyocell and TENCEL™Modal?

TENCEL™ is an Austrian company owned by parent brand Lenzing, and the lyocell and modal fibres form part of the wider TENCEL™ fibre family.

So now you know that TENCEL™ is the brand, what’s the difference between the types of TENCEL™ lyocell and modal? Well, the difference is how the fibres are created and the properties of each.

For example, TENCEL™ lyocell is made from sustainably sourced eucalyptus wood trees, while TENCEL™ modal is created from beech trees, each fibre has slightly different properties.

TENCEL™ modal has a slightly softer feel than lyocell, making it perfect for intimates and clothing, while TENCEL™ lyocell has excellent moisture-wicking properties and is great for activewear, workwear , and clothing.

Both TENCEL™ fabrics are soft and breathable, and suitable for sensitive skin.

How Is TENCEL™ Lyocell Made?

Firstly sustainably sourced wood is harvested and turned into chips. These chips then enter a closed loop cycle to extract the cellulose pulp from the wood chips. The pulp is then pushed through fine holes called a spinneret to create the TENCEL™ fibres.

The transformation of wood chip to fibre takes place in a closed loop process, where over 99% of the solvents and water are recycled back to be used again.

Is TENCEL™ Biodegradable?

Yes, both TENCEL™ lyocell and modal fabrics are biodegradable, which makes the material a great alternative to virgin polyester.

Is TENCEL™ Eco-Friendly?

TENCEL™ fabrics are considered a key innovative sustainable material thanks to the properties below:

TENCEL™ fabric is biodegradable, making it a great alternative to virgin polyester.
TENCEL lyocell is created in a closed-loop process where >99% of the solvents are recycled back into the system. This makes TENCEL™ a more eco-friendly alternative to other viscose materials that aren’t made in a closed loop process.
TENCEL™ lyocell and modal are created in systems powered from renewable energy resources.
TENCEL fibres are FSC and PEFC certified, meaning they’re sourced from sustainable and protected sources.
The closed-loop process TENCEL™ fibres are created to mean less pollution.

Properties of TENCEL™

As well as being a sustainable alternative to many other synthetic-made fibres like virgin polyester, TENCEL™ has many properties that make it a versatile, functional material for clothing.

TENCEL material is super soft and gentle on the skin, as the lyocell and modal fibres have a smooth and silky feel.
TENCEL™ is a breathable fabric. Unlike polyester, which is non-absorbing and non-hygroscopic, TENCEL™ allows moisture in and out, making it breathable and perfect for pyjamas, underwear, clothing, and activewear.
As we’ve discussed TENCEL™ is a cellulosic fibre which means it’s a breathable and thermoregulating material, which means it’s excellent at keeping you cool and dry in the summer and acting as an insulation layer to keep you warm in colder months.
TENCEL™ fibres are robust and long-lasting.

Favourite Thought Pieces from TENCEL™

You can find a mix of innovative sustainable materials at Thought, including TENCEL™. Check out a few of my favourite silky smooth styles below created from TENCEL™.

Oriel Peplum Tencel Top