What is TENCEL™? Why More Brands Are Switching to It

What is TENCEL™? Why More Brands Are Switching to It

TENCEL™ has become a go-to fabric for modern fashion brands — praised for its soft touch, eco credentials, and elegant drape.
But what exactly is it? And how does it compare to cotton or polyester?

At HEM APPAREL, we’ve used TENCEL™ in premium tees, shirts, dresses, and even activewear. Here’s why it deserves your attention.


🌿 What is TENCEL™?

TENCEL™ is the brand name for lyocell and modal fibers produced by Lenzing AG, an Austrian company.

Key features:

  • Made from wood pulp (typically eucalyptus or beech)

  • Produced in a closed-loop system with low water and chemical use

  • Biodegradable and compostable


✨ Why Brands Love It

Ultra soft and smooth
Feels luxurious against skin — ideal for premium basics and womenswear

Moisture-wicking and breathable
Keeps the body cool and fresh — great for tropical wear or sleepwear

Elegant drape & matte finish
Adds flow and polish to shirts, dresses, and loungewear

Eco-friendly
More sustainable than conventional cotton or viscose


🔍 Comparison Table

Feature Cotton Polyester TENCEL™
Softness Medium Low ✅ Very soft
Breathability ✅ Yes ❌ Poor ✅ Excellent
Stretch ❌ No ✅ Varies Blends well
Sustainability ❌ (unless organic) ❌ No ✅ Certified
Wrinkle Resistance Medium ✅ Yes Medium

👕 Best Use Cases

  • Premium T-shirts: Cotton-TENCEL™ blends feel better than 100% cotton

  • Womenswear & dresses: 100% TENCEL™ woven is flowy and lightweight

  • Loungewear & sleepwear: Breathable and gentle on skin

  • Activewear: Often blended with spandex for soft stretch


⚠️ Things to Consider

  • TENCEL™ can wrinkle slightly — enzyme or sand washing helps

  • Costs more than regular cotton — but delivers a much higher perceived value

  • Not suitable for all structures (e.g., stiff or boxy silhouettes)


🧠 HEM APPAREL’s Tip:

Start with a cotton-TENCEL™ jersey blend for premium tees — the handfeel is noticeably softer.
Or try 100% TENCEL™ twill or woven for refined shirting or relaxed dresses.

We can help with sourcing and sampling to make sure the drape, shrinkage, and color hold meet your expectations.

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