Lyocell (Tencel™)

What is lyocell fabric?

Lyocell is a regenerated cellulose fibre made from wood pulp. It is known for its smooth hand feel, soft drape and comfortable moisture absorption. TENCEL™ is a branded lyocell fibre from Lenzing, so not every lyocell fabric is automatically TENCEL™.

Lyocell is often used for garments that need softness, fluid movement and a refined surface. It can be woven or knitted, depending on the final fabric type and intended use.

View Lyocell Collection

Specifications

  • Construction Woven or knitted fabric, depending on the application
  • Composition 100% lyocell, or blended with cotton, polyester or elastane
  • Fabric weight Light to medium: 100–200 g/m²
  • Stretch Woven fabric: no stretch; jersey: moderate stretch, 20–35%
  • Abbreviations LY = lyocell, CLY = cupro-lyocell
  • Appearance Silky-soft, lightly glossy, flowing drape

Properties of the fabric

Lyocell is made by processing cellulose into a spinnable fibre. The result is a soft, smooth and breathable fabric with a fluid drape. It often feels cooler and more supple than cotton, while still having a natural-looking appearance.

Lyocell can be used on its own or blended with fibres such as cotton, linen, polyester, viscose or elastane. Woven lyocell usually has little stretch, while knitted lyocell or lyocell with elastane can stretch more. Like many cellulose-based fabrics, lyocell can shrink or crease, so careful washing and drying are important.

In search data, lyocell is one of the most searched-for fabrics, with more than 44,000 searches per month.

Applications

Care instructions

  • Wash lyocell usually at 30°C on a gentle programme, depending on construction and finish.
  • Wash inside out and avoid heavy mechanical action to help protect the smooth surface.
  • Pre-wash lyocell before cutting when shrinkage could affect the final size.
  • Avoid high tumble-drying temperatures, because heat can cause shrinkage or surface change.
  • Iron at low to medium temperature on the reverse side if needed.

Certifications

Tencel™/Lyocell from Lenzing has OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and Ecovero certification. GOTS is available in certified supply chains. Lyocell is recognised as one of the most sustainable textile fibres.

Practical Tip

Lyocell is an excellent choice for brands that want to communicate sustainability. The combination of softness, good drape and environmental profile makes it popular in premium collections.

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