TENCEL™ is actually a brand name for a type of fabric known as Lyocell, which is produced by the Austrian company Lenzing AG.
Made from wood-based fibres, a TENCEL™ Lyocell fabric is a soft, breathable material sourced from eucalyptus, beech, birch or spruce trees. TENCEL™ Modal is a softer, more flexible version often made from beechwood.
Key Takeaways
- TENCEL™ is a soft, breathable fabric made from wood pulp, with Lyocell offering more strength and moisture control and Modal providing a lighter, silkier feel.
- It feels smooth, manages moisture well and is made using lower-waste processes, but it can cost more and may need gentle washing and low heat.
- TENCEL™ works across bedding, clothing, activewear and sleepwear, including Ecosa Sleepwear made with 91% TENCEL™ Modal for softness, stretch and comfortable sleep.
You will often see it used in linen bedding, clothing and mattress covers because it feels comfortable without being heavy. It also drapes neatly and stays pleasant through warm nights, which is why it has become a popular pick for sleep products.
What Is TENCEL™ Fabric Made Of?
TENCEL™ fabric is made from cellulose taken from wood pulp, often sourced from eucalyptus, beech, spruce, birch or maple trees. The pulp is dissolved and turned into fine fibres, which are then spun into yarn and woven into fabric.
TENCEL™ Lyocell uses a closed-loop process that recovers and reuses most of the solvent instead of sending it straight to waste. TENCEL™ Modal is commonly made from beechwood pulp and processed into soft, flexible fibres that hold their shape well.
Our Ecosa Sleepwear puts TENCEL™ Modal to work with a blend of 91% TENCEL™ Modal. The result is a butter-soft, breathable fabric with natural moisture control and enough stretch to move comfortably through the night.
TENCEL™ Lyocell vs. Modal: What’s the Difference?
TENCEL™ Lyocell is generally stronger and better at managing moisture, while TENCEL™ Modal is prized for its lasting softness and flexible drape.
Both are wood-based fibres, but their feel and common uses differ.
| Feature | TENCEL™ Lyocell | TENCEL™ Modal |
| Wood source | Often eucalyptus, spruce, birch or other wood pulp | Commonly beechwood pulp |
| Feel | Smooth, cool and slightly structured | Soft, silky and flexible |
| Strength | Generally stronger and more durable | Lighter and more delicate |
| Moisture control | Very good at absorbing and releasing moisture | Good moisture absorption |
| Common uses | Bedding, mattress covers, denim and activewear | Underwear, loungewear and lightweight clothing |
1. Raw Material
TENCEL™ Lyocell can be made from several types of wood pulp, including eucalyptus and spruce. TENCEL™ Modal is commonly made from beechwood pulp.
2. Feel
Lyocell feels smooth, cool and slightly more structured. Modal has a softer, silkier feel with a lighter drape.
3. Strength
Lyocell fibres are generally stronger, making them suitable for products that need to handle regular use. Modal is more delicate but holds its softness well over time.
4. Moisture Control
Lyocell is known for absorbing and releasing moisture efficiently, which can help bedding and clothing feel less clammy. Modal also handles moisture well, but softness is usually its main strength.
5. Common Uses
Lyocell is often used in sheets, mattress covers, activewear and denim. Modal is common in underwear, loungewear and lightweight clothing.
Benefits of TENCEL™ Fabric
TENCEL™ fabric feels soft, handles moisture well and is made using processes that reduce waste. These qualities make it a practical choice for bedding, clothing and other textiles used close to the skin.
1. Soft & Smooth Against the Skin
TENCEL™ fibres have a smooth surface that gives finished fabrics a soft, gentle feel. This can make them comfortable for sheets, pillowcases, underwear and everyday clothing.
TENCEL™ Modal is especially known for holding onto its softness after repeated washing. That butter-soft feel is one reason our women’s and men’s pyjama pants allow comfortable, sweat-free sleep.
2. Manages Moisture & Heat
The fibre structure absorbs and releases moisture, helping the fabric feel drier and less stuffy. This makes it a comfortable option for hot sleepers, activewear and warm-weather clothing, especially if you are looking for ways to cool down when you sleep. It will not stop sweat, but it can help move moisture away from the skin.
3. Strong Enough for Regular Use
TENCEL™ Lyocell has good fibre strength, allowing it to be used in bed linen, clothing, denim and activewear. It can also stay soft after regular washing when cared for properly.
The lifespan of the finished item still depends on its weave, stitching, fabric weight and care instructions.
4. Made With Lower-Waste Processes
TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibres come from renewable wood sourced from certified or controlled origins. Lyocell production uses a closed-loop system that recovers and reuses more than 99.8% of the solvent.
Standard TENCEL™ fibres may also be biodegradable and compostable. However, dyes, finishes, elastic and blended materials can change how the finished product breaks down.
5. Works Across Many Products
TENCEL™ fibres can be used in sheets, mattress covers, underwear, activewear, denim and flowing clothing. Different yarns, weaves and fibre blends can create a wide range of weights and textures.
This means TENCEL™ does not have one fixed feel. One product may be silky and light, while another feels thicker and more structured.
Downsides of TENCEL™ Fabric
TENCEL™ fabric can cost more than common materials, may shrink if washed incorrectly and sometimes needs gentler care. These drawbacks are worth checking before you buy.
1. It Can Be More Expensive
TENCEL™ products often cost more than standard cotton or polyester options because of the wood sourcing and fibre-making process. Prices still vary depending on the product, brand and fabric blend.
2. It May Shrink
TENCEL™ fabric may shrink when exposed to hot water or high dryer heat, particularly during its first few washes. Use a cool, gentle cycle and follow the care label to help it keep its shape.
3. Blends Can Change Its Feel
TENCEL™ is sometimes blended with cotton, polyester, nylon or elastane to change its stretch, strength or price. Check the fibre percentages, as a product with only a small amount of TENCEL™ may feel less soft or breathable.
4. It May Need Gentler Care
Some TENCEL™ fabrics can be sensitive to heat, harsh detergents and rough wash cycles. Care needs vary by weave and blend, so the product label should always be your first stop.
TENCEL™ vs Cotton vs Bamboo
TENCEL™ is made from wood pulp, cotton comes from cotton plants, and bamboo fabric is usually created by processing bamboo pulp into rayon or viscose. TENCEL™ tends to feel smooth and cool, cotton can feel crisp or soft depending on the weave, and bamboo often has a silky finish with strong moisture control.
| Feature | TENCEL™ | Cotton | Bamboo |
| Made from | Wood pulp processed into Lyocell or Modal fibres | Natural fibres from cotton plants | Bamboo pulp processed into bamboo viscose |
| Feel | Smooth, soft and cool | Crisp or soft, depending on the weave | Silky, light and smooth |
| Moisture control | Absorbs and releases moisture well | Breathable but may hold onto sweat | Breathable and moisture-wicking |
| Care | May need gentle washing and low heat | Usually easy to wash and care for | Often needs a gentle wash cycle |
| Ecosa option | Ecosa Sleepwear uses 91% TENCEL™ Modal | Ecosa Cotton Sheets use 100% Australian cotton with a 320 thread count percale weave | Ecosa Bamboo Sheets use 100% organic bamboo viscose with a 400 thread count sateen weave |
TENCEL™ Fabric
TENCEL™ fabric is made from wood pulp and is known for its smooth feel, moisture control and strength. It works well for bedding and clothing that need to stay soft without feeling heavy.
- TENCEL™ Lyocell – Stronger, cooler and better suited to bedding, activewear and products that need to handle regular use.
- TENCEL™ Modal – Softer, lighter and more flexible, which makes it a good fit for sleepwear, underwear and loungewear.
Our Ecosa Sleepwear is made with 91% TENCEL™ Modal and 9% elastane for a butter-soft feel with plenty of stretch. From women’s to men’s sleepwear, each piece uses flattened seams and no scratchy labels, so nothing gets between you and a comfortable night’s sleep.
| Pros | Cons |
| Feels smooth and soft against the skin | Often costs more than standard cotton |
| Absorbs and releases moisture well | May shrink when exposed to high heat |
| TENCEL™ Lyocell is strong and suited to regular use | Some products need a gentle wash cycle |
| Made from wood sourced through certified or controlled supply chains | Not as widely available as cotton |
| Available in bedding, clothing and sleepwear |
Cotton Fabric
Cotton is a natural fibre that feels breathable, familiar and comfortable in most seasons. Its texture can range from crisp and cool to soft and cosy depending on the weave and quality.
Our Ecosa Cotton Sheets are made from 100% Australian cotton with a 320 thread count percale weave for a crisp yet soft feel that stays breathable and durable.
| Pros | Cons |
| Breathable and comfortable for everyday use | Can absorb sweat and hold onto moisture |
| Widely available in different weaves and price ranges | May shrink or fade in hot washes |
| Often becomes softer after repeated washing | Some cotton fabrics crease easily |
| Easy to wash and care for | Conventional cotton farming can use large amounts of water |
| Works well for sheets, towels and clothing |
Bamboo Fabric
Bamboo fabric is usually made by processing bamboo pulp into rayon or viscose fibres. It often feels silky, light and cool, making it popular for sheets, sleepwear and warm-weather clothing.
Our Ecosa Bamboo Sheets are made from 100% organic bamboo viscose with a 400 thread count sateen weave for a smooth, breathable feel that helps wick moisture through the night.
| Pros | Cons |
| Feels soft and silky | The finished fabric is heavily processed |
| Handles moisture well | May pill or wear faster if poorly made |
| Light and comfortable in warm conditions | Often needs gentle washing |
| Commonly used in bedding and sleepwear |
How to Care for TENCEL™ Fabrics
TENCEL™ and Modal fabrics last longer when you wash them gently, avoid high heat and follow the product’s care label.
Washing
- Turn the item inside out before washing.
- Use cold water, a gentle cycle and mild detergent.
- Wash delicate pieces by hand if the care label recommends it.
Drying
- Air dry the fabric flat or hang it in a shaded spot.
- Avoid high heat, as it can cause shrinkage or damage.
- If you use a dryer, choose the lowest setting and remove the item promptly.
Ironing
- Iron on a low heat setting.
- Place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric.
- Skip steam unless the care label says it is safe.
Shop TENCEL™ Modal Sleepwear at Ecosa
Sleep cooler and more comfortably in Ecosa Sleepwear made with 91% TENCEL™ Moda. Our range includes women’s nighties, pyjama sets, sleep shorts and men’s long sleeve pyjamas with a butter-soft feel, natural moisture control and plenty of stretch.
Flattened seams and label-free designs help prevent scratching, while the light fabric keeps bedtime comfortable without feeling clingy.
Shop our sleepwear and explore our cooling range to bring more softness and temperature-friendly comfort into your nightly routine.