Introduction
Tencel™ has become one of the most influential fabrics in the textile world. It is prized for its soft feel, breathability, and eco-friendly production process. Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, Tencel has been positioned as a modern alternative to cotton and polyester, while rivalling silk in comfort.
Unlike traditional fabrics, Tencel regulates temperature, resists bacterial growth, and remains durable after multiple washes. It is increasingly used in underwear, activewear, and luxury sleepwear, especially across Europe, where sustainable textiles are in high demand [1].
This article explores what Tencel is, how it’s produced, and why it’s redefining comfort and quality. We’ll also compare it to other popular fabrics, and link to our full guide on Tencel vs Silk vs Satin.
The Origins of Tencel
Tencel was developed by Austrian company Lenzing AG in the 1990s as part of its drive to produce sustainable fabrics. Lenzing had long manufactured viscose, but sought a fibre that could combine luxury softness with environmental responsibility [2].
The development of Lyocell, marketed under the Tencel™ brand, marked a turning point. It offered a fabric that was smoother than cotton, more sustainable than polyester, and easier to care for than silk. By the early 2000s, Tencel had become widely adopted in bedding, clothing, and technical textiles.
Its rise coincided with the growing conversation about sustainable fashion, making it one of the first commercially successful “eco-fabrics.” Today, Tencel is found in everything from jeans to luxury pyjamas, and remains one of the most researched fibres in the sustainable fashion movement [3].
How Tencel is Made
Tencel is produced using a closed-loop process. Wood from sustainably managed forests is broken down into pulp, dissolved using a non-toxic solvent (amine oxide), and then spun into fibres. The closed-loop system recovers and reuses more than 99% of the water and solvents, minimising waste and emissions [1].
This is what sets Tencel apart from viscose and rayon, which often use toxic chemicals and release pollutants. By contrast, the Tencel process is certified by the EU EcoLabel, making it one of the cleanest large-scale textile productions in existence [4].
The result is a fibre that is smooth, uniform, and naturally soft. Because it comes from renewable wood, Tencel is also fully biodegradable, returning safely to the earth at the end of its lifecycle [5].
Properties of Tencel Fabric
- Softness: Smooth fibres feel gentle on the skin, often compared to silk.
- Breathability: Regulates body temperature, making it ideal for layering or hot climates.
- Moisture Absorption: Absorbs 50% more moisture than cotton, reducing bacteria and odour [2].
- Durability: Retains strength even when wet, unlike viscose, which weakens [5].
- Hypoallergenic: Its natural structure resists dust mites and mould.
These properties explain why Tencel is popular in underwear, bedding, and activewear. It’s not only comfortable but also functional, making it one of the most versatile fabrics available.
Benefits of Tencel for Clothing and Sleepwear
Tencel shines in applications where comfort is essential. In sleepwear, its breathability prevents overheating, while its softness soothes sensitive skin. It’s often recommended for people with eczema or allergies [6].
In underwear, Tencel’s moisture management reduces sweat and irritation, making it ideal for all-day wear. Its drape also gives clothing a premium look, which is why it is favoured in European sleepwear fabrics for pyjamas, robes, and loungewear.
Unlike silk, Tencel is easier to wash and doesn’t require dry cleaning. Compared to cotton, it resists wrinkling and dries faster, making it a practical yet luxurious choice.
Tencel vs Other Fabrics (Cotton, Polyester, Linen)
Cotton: Affordable and widely available, but water-intensive to grow. Tencel absorbs moisture better, is softer, and more sustainable.
Polyester: Durable and cheap, but petroleum-based and non-biodegradable. Tencel offers similar strength with far less environmental impact [4].
Linen: Sustainable and breathable, but often coarse and wrinkle-prone. Tencel is smoother and requires less maintenance.
Overall, Tencel combines the advantages of these fabrics without many of their drawbacks.
Why Tencel is Popular in Europe
European consumers are leading the demand for sustainable and premium-quality fabrics. Tencel aligns perfectly with these values, which is why it has become central to European sleepwear fabrics and luxury basics.
Brands in Italy, France, and Scandinavia often highlight Tencel’s eco-credentials in marketing, emphasising its closed-loop production and biodegradability. It is also popular with European designers creating capsule wardrobes, where durability and softness are key [3][7].
The EU’s move toward a circular textiles economy has further boosted Tencel’s appeal, as it is one of the few fibres that meet sustainability benchmarks without compromising quality.
Tencel in Sleepwear and Underwear
Tencel is widely used in pyjamas, underwear, and loungewear. For pyjamas, it delivers a lightweight yet insulating feel, keeping wearers comfortable across seasons. For underwear, it balances softness and stretch, making it an excellent alternative to cotton blends.
In men’s underwear, it is praised for creating comfortable products that stay breathable and fresh. In women’s basics, it offers a silk-like feel without requiring delicate washing. As a result, many premium European brands are using Tencel to replace polyester and even cotton in their nightwear ranges [6].
Care Instructions for Tencel
- Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle.
- Avoid fabric softeners, as they can coat fibres and reduce absorbency.
- Air dry flat or tumble dry on low heat.
- Iron at low temperatures if needed.
Compared with silk, which needs dry cleaning, and cotton, which can shrink, Tencel offers the convenience of machine washing while still retaining its luxury softness [2][5].
Sustainability and Environmental Impact
Tencel is one of the most sustainable fabrics available today. Its closed-loop process recycles nearly all water and solvents, dramatically lowering its ecological footprint. Certified by OEKO-TEX® and the EU EcoLabel, it meets high safety and environmental standards [1].
Because it comes from responsibly managed forests, Tencel is renewable and biodegradable. Unlike polyester, it won’t release microplastics into waterways. And unlike conventional cotton, it requires far less water and chemicals to produce [4][7].
This makes Tencel a cornerstone of the sustainable fashion movement, offering both consumers and brands a responsible fabric option.
Tencel vs Silk vs Satin (Linked Guide)
To see how Tencel compares with traditional luxury fabrics, read our full guide: Tencel vs Silk vs Satin Pyjamas.
In short, silk is the benchmark for elegance but delicate; satin is shiny and affordable but less breathable; and Tencel delivers a modern balance of luxury, sustainability, and practicality.
Conclusion
Tencel represents the perfect blend of comfort, performance, and sustainability. It combines the softness of silk, the practicality of cotton, and the durability of modern synthetics, while being far kinder to the planet.
From European sleepwear fabrics to everyday underwear, Tencel is shaping the future of clothing. Whether you prioritise comfort, eco-consciousness, or easy care, Tencel is a fabric that meets all three.
References
- [1] Lenzing AG. TENCEL™: The Sustainable Fibre of the Future.
- [2] WellFabric. Tencel vs Other Fabrics: Breathability and Care.
- [3] Vogue Business. The Rise of Sustainable Fabrics in Europe.
- [4] Textile Exchange. Preferred Fibre & Materials Report 2022.
- [5] Ethical Consumer. Tencel Explained.
- [6] The Guardian. Eco Fabrics and the Future of Fashion.
- [7] McKinsey & Company. Sustainable Fashion and Consumer Behaviour Report 2023.
