In product descriptions for home textiles, and often for sportswear too, we increasingly come across the names TENCEL™ Lyocell or just Lyocell. What do these terms mean? Are they cheaply produced synthetic goods, or can we buy them with confidence?
What exactly is Tencel™ Lyocell?
The brand name TENCEL™ Lyocell stands for a Lyocell fibre produced by Lenzing. With the invention of TENCEL™ Lyocell, Lenzing has opened a new chapter in the history of fibres and has been awarded the European Award for the Environment by the European Union for its unique, closed and sustainable manufacturing process.
Lyocell is regarded and classified by experts as one of the most important fibres of the future – ‘the new age fibre’ – in our environmentally challenged times.
In harmony with nature
- Lyocell is a cellulose fibre – i.e. a fibre produced industrially from natural and renewable raw materials (wood => pulp => fibre production => Lyocell). It is produced on sustainably managed plantations:
- Fibre extraction per square metre of cultivated area is extremely efficient
- Water consumption during production is very low compared to other fibres
- Lyocell is biodegradable
Lyocell has excellent moisture regulation properties thanks to its microfine structure (fibrils: tiny components with small channels). The fibre also scores points with the following properties:
- breathable
- heat-regulating (cools when hot, warms when cold)
- smooth & supple, gentle & soft
- absorbent
- Tear-resistant, durable & dimensionally stable
Lyocell in the bedroom
Due to its properties, Lyocell is ideal for use in bedrooms. Bedding made from Lyocell ensures a healthy & dry sleeping environment and is just as suitable for people who sweat heavily as it is for those who are always cold. The high moisture absorption capacity can be clearly seen in our Bella Donna summer duvet: The underside of the duvet is made of cosy cotton jersey, while the top is made of TENCEL™ Lyocell.
Lyocell ensures that the summer duvet absorbs and wicks away moisture extremely well. It also inhibits the growth of bacteria and odours. The result is a refreshing sleeping environment.
Lyocell & allergy sufferers
The material is washable at up to 60°C (which kills most germs) and suitable for tumble drying. Optimal moisture absorption and release naturally reduces bacterial growth without the use of chemical additives. Any moisture that does occur is immediately transported into the fibre interior – reducing the formation of bacteria right from the start – and released back into the environment just as quickly. With conventional synthetic fibres (e.g. polyester, polyamide), on the other hand, the number of bacteria increases up to 2,000-fold (one example: the smell of sweat on clothing made of synthetic fibres). This is why we are increasingly finding mattresses, bedding and sleep textiles made from Lyocell in specialist shops, especially in the allergy sector.
Allergy sufferers can breathe a sigh of relief with Lyocell products.