Tencel is a breathable fabric that keeps you cool, particularly in hot weather. In addition, it is 50% more absorbent than cotton and much less prone to the growth of odor-causing germs.
What is Tencel Fabric?
Tencel is a fabric brand made from eco-friendly wood materials. It is a 100% natural light, soft, sturdy, and comfortable fabric. Austrian firm Lenzing AG owns the name “Tencel.” However, the common name is lyocell, and underwear and sportswear companies regularly use it.
Due to its minimal environmental effect, Tencel cloth is considered a particularly unique fabric. As a result, manufacturers can blend it with conventional fabrics like cotton, wool, silk, or polyester, as well as other synthetic fibers. This improves its overall strength, absorbency, and softness in particular.
What Makes Tencel Breathable?
Ninety-nine percent of the solvent used on the threads is recycled before they are finally dried by “spinning.” Tencel’s exceptional capacity to absorb moisture is one of the critical features of this technique. It also makes the fabric breathable, softer, and less prone to creases.
Tencel fiber is a naturally occurring fabric made of nanofibrils— very tiny, hydrophilic fibers. Manufacturers accomplish this by combining a chemical solvent with wood pulp. After dissolving, the pulp is forced through little holes to create threads.
Types of Tencel and How Breathable They Are
Most Tencel sheets have a sateen weave, which features a one-under, four-over thread pattern. This fabric has a lovely drape and a light gloss. Certain Tencel sheets also incorporate a percale weave, which employs a one-over, one-under thread pattern to give them a sharper feel.
What sort of textiles are these Tencel ones, and how breathable are they? Well, that depends on these two popularly known types:
1. Tencel Lyocell
The most widely used Tencel, Lyocell, is mainly used to create bed linens. Tencel lyocell has a smooth, light feel that resembles cotton in many ways.
In addition to being incredibly breathable, it is renowned for its ability to wick away sweat. Therefore, it’s a fantastic bedding option for people who sweat in their sleep.
2. Tencel Modal
Tencel modal is a more smooth fabric often manufactured from Beachwood pulp. Tencel modal has a softer feel but does not breathe as well as Lyocell; thus, it might not be suitable for people who sweat a lot at night.
Tencel vs. Cotton Breathability
Tencel surpasses cotton in breathability. In addition, Tencel sheets are highly airy and absorbent; this implies that Tencel can assist in regulating your body temperature throughout the night. If you are a hot sleeper, it is perfect for wicking away sweat while you sleep.
Sheets made of cotton and Tencel are both supple and strong. However, Tencel feels silkier than cotton and is simpler to maintain. This softer feel can make you more comfortable in hot temperatures, unlike cotton, which can get itchy.
How to Care for Tencel Clothing?
Caring for your breathable Tencel fabric can make it more pleasurable as you wear it over time. Here are a few of the methods:
Understand the Washing Requirements
It’s preferable to hand wash Tencel fabric because it is so fragile. Instead, it is better to use cold water and a mild detergent, followed by drip drying. Tencel also shrinks by about 3% after the first wash; however, it doesn’t shrink further after that.
Avoid Intense Heat
If you ever need to fix your Tencel apparel, stick to warm iron. Direct heat used in excess risked burning the cloth.
Use the Gentle Cycle When Machine Washing
The gentle cycle is best for Tencel apparel. Additionally, drip drying your Tencel apparel is superior to machine drying it. You may rapidly put the cloth that has been line-dried in the dryer with a moist towel to soften it.