Tencel fabric
Lenzing's lyocell and modal. Tencel isn't a separate fibre but Austrian Lenzing's brand for its lyocell ('Tencel Lyocell') and modal ('Tencel Modal'), from certified forests.
How it feels
Smooth, cool and soft.
Season: Summer and hot days – it keeps you cool.
What it's used for
Shirts, dresses, denim, bedding.
Shirts, dresses, denim and bedding – when you want smoothness and cool.
Pros
- Traceable, cleaner production
- Breathable and strong
Cons
- Pricier than plain viscose
Care: a typical label
Always follow your own garment's label – blends and finishes change the care.
How it's constructed
Twill weave. Threads pass over two or more crosswise threads, stepping along each row – making diagonal lines. Denser, drapier, hard-wearing and good at hiding marks.
A little history
Tencel is Lenzing's brand; its wood comes from certified forests and over 99% of the solvent is recovered.
How to recognise it
Regenerated fibres are smooth, slightly lustrous, very drapey and cool to the touch. Noticeably weaker when wet. They burn smelling of paper, like cotton.
Sustainability
Renewable and biodegradable, but viscose production is chemical-heavy. Lyocell (Tencel) is made in a closed loop – the cleanest choice. Look for FSC or Lenzing EcoVero.
When buying
'Bamboo' on a label usually means viscose. Modal and lyocell shrink less than plain viscose – worth paying more for clothes you wash often.
Frequently asked
01What is tencel?
Lenzing's lyocell and modal. Tencel isn't a separate fibre but Austrian Lenzing's brand for its lyocell ('Tencel Lyocell') and modal ('Tencel Modal'), from certified forests.
02Is tencel a natural fabric?
Partly: the raw material is natural (wood cellulose) but the fibre is made chemically – it's regenerated, neither natural nor synthetic.
03Does tencel shrink?
A little: tencel can shrink 1–2%, mostly in the first wash.
04Is tencel breathable?
Very well: tencel is one of the most breathable fabrics – the coolest choice for hot weather.