You might’ve seen the term TENCEL™ or lyocell a few times if you read your clothes’ care label. And not without reason, these sustainable fibres have become more popular in the last few years. But what is it exactly? And why is it better than some other fibres available on the market?

What is Tencel™ lyocell?

Lyocell are cellulosic fibres which derive from wood, just like the better-known rayon or viscose. TENCEL™ Lyocell is the award-winning brother of lyocell, made by Lenzing. This Austrian company makes certified cellulose fibres in a closed-loop production process and derives the wood from controlled forests. TENCEL™ Lyocell fibres are smooth to the touch and breathable. TENCEL™ fibres also have quick-drying properties, making it the perfect option for a sweaty, warm day!

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How is the fabric with Tencel™ lyocell made?

All TENCEL™ fibers are cellulosic fibres. Cellulose is the primary substance in plant cell walls to strengthen plants and wood and keep them standing tall. Once the wood is shredded into wood chips, they are dissolved in an organic solvent. This solvent turns the chips into a paste. The paste is pushed through tiny holes to create threads or fibres in the next step. These can then be spun into yarn and later woven into a soft fabric made from TENCEL™ lyocell fibres.

Why do we use fabrics with Tencel™ lyocell?

Kuyichi aims to use only man-made fibres that are sourced from sustainably managed sources. We’re guaranteed that the wood used for TENCEL™ fibres are derived from forests certified by accredited forest management standards. These standards prove that the forest has been managed to preserve biodiversity and that no illegal logging is involved! TENCEL™ fibres have a low impact with a low water footprint. Trees use much less water than cotton plants. A lower impact means purer goods!

The use of a closed-loop production process is the biggest difference between regular viscose and TENCEL™ lyocell. A closed-loop production process means that the process water and the solvent used are recycled up to 99% to ensure the impact is as low as possible. The closed-loop process makes it possible to keep reusing the solvent instead of needing to renew and dispose of it constantly. Better for our planet!

TENCEL™ lyocell fibres are wood-based fibres, so they are of botanical origin. Lenzing also certified them as biodegradable under industrial, home, soil and marine conditions. TENCEL™ lyocell fibres are, therefore, able to return to our precious earth fully. You could just put the fibres in the ground and they will completely dissolve!

"Forest standards prove that the forest has been managed to preserve biodiversity and that no illegal logging is involved!"

How to take care of products with Tencel™ Lyocell

The fine texture of fabrics with TENCEL™Lyocell is smooth to the touch and kind to your skin. It is also easy to care for your clothing with TENCEL™ lyocell. They can be washed on a short, cool cycle, which can greatly reduce the impact of its lifecycle!