Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell

Comfort ScienceEverything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell
Bright, minimalist bedroom with a neatly made bed dressed in crisp white sheets and pillows. Close-up highlights smooth Tencel™ bedding, conveying a clean, soft, hotel-style feel.

Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell

In the bedding world, material names are often used loosely, and it is not always clear what they actually mean. Fiber type, manufacturing process, and real-life performance can easily get blended together, making it harder to understand what you are truly buying.

This guide explains TENCEL™ Lyocell, in simple terms, what it is, where it comes from, and how it is made, so you can feel more confident about what you are choosing for your bed. You will also see how it is used in Orchids Lux Home collections and learn how to wash and care for it properly so it stays looking and feeling its best.

Table of Contents

    What is TENCEL™ Lyocell?

    TENCEL™ Lyocell is a regenerated cellulosic fiber produced for textile applications and identified by a registered trademark. It is classified as a plant-based fiber due to its cellulose composition and is used in applications where uniformity, surface smoothness, and material consistency are required.

    The word “Lyocell” refers to the manufacturing process and the generic name of the fiber itself. “TENCEL™” is the trademarked brand name for lyocell fibers produced by Lenzing AG. 

    When you see the TENCEL™ name, it indicates that the fiber is made under specific quality and production standards. This helps distinguish it from generic lyocell fibers that may be produced under different conditions.

    In bedding, it is chosen for its smooth surface and consistent feel, qualities that matter when the fabric is in close contact with your skin.

    Natural fiber display featuring raw lyocell fibers and spools of yarn in neutral tones on a wooden surface. Eucalyptus leaves and folded fabric in the background highlight the plant-based, sustainable origin.

    TENCEL™ Lyocell is a regenerated cellulosic fiber produced for textile applications and identified by a registered trademark. It is classified as a plant-based fiber due to its cellulose composition and is used in applications where uniformity, surface smoothness, and material consistency are required.

    The word “Lyocell” refers to the manufacturing process and the generic name of the fiber itself. “TENCEL™” is the trademarked brand name for lyocell fibers produced by Lenzing AG. 

    When you see the TENCEL™ name, it indicates that the fiber is made under specific quality and production standards. This helps distinguish it from generic lyocell fibers that may be produced under different conditions.

    In bedding, it is chosen for its smooth surface and consistent feel, qualities that matter when the fabric is in close contact with your skin.

    Natural fiber display featuring raw lyocell fibers and spools of yarn in neutral tones on a wooden surface. Eucalyptus leaves and folded fabric in the background highlight the plant-based, sustainable origin.

    Where Does TENCEL™ Lyocell Come From?

    Split image showing tall eucalyptus trees growing in a forest on the left and stacked eucalyptus logs on the right. Illustrates the natural wood source used in producing TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers.

    It begins with eucalyptus wood sourced from PEFC-certified forests, which stands for Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification.

    Eucalyptus is often chosen because it grows efficiently in managed forestry systems and does not require intensive irrigation, pesticides, or fertilizers.

    At its core, the fibres come from wood-based cellulose, a natural substance found in plant cell walls. Once the wood is harvested, it is processed into wood pulp. That pulp becomes the starting material used to create the fiber.

    When used in textile, cellulose derived from eucalyptus helps support fabric constructions known for smooth surfaces and breathable structures, qualities that matter for materials designed to be in close contact with skin during sleep.

    Where Does TENCEL™ Lyocell Come From?​

    It begins with eucalyptus wood sourced from PEFC-certified forests, which stands for Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification. Eucalyptus is often chosen because it grows efficiently in managed forestry systems and does not require intensive irrigation, pesticides, or fertilizers.

    At its core, the fibres come from wood-based cellulose, a natural substance found in plant cell walls. Once the wood is harvested, it is processed into wood pulp.

    That pulp becomes the starting material used to create the fiber. When used in textile, cellulose derived from eucalyptus helps support fabric constructions known for smooth surfaces and breathable structures, qualities that matter for materials designed to be in close contact with skin during sleep.

    Split image showing tall eucalyptus trees growing in a forest on the left and stacked eucalyptus logs on the right. Illustrates the natural wood source used in producing TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers.

    How Is TENCEL™ Lyocell Manufactured?

    How Is TENCEL™ Lyocell Manufactured?

    Step 1: Preparing the cellulose
    It all starts with harvested wood, which is processed into purified wood pulp. That pulp serves as the base material from which the fiber is made.

    Step 2: Creating the solution
    The pulp is dissolved into a smooth, uniform liquid solution that can be shaped into fibers.

    Step 3: Forming the fiber
    This solution is pushed through very fine openings called spinnerets, forming continuous filaments that solidify into TENCEL™ Lyocell fiber.

    Step 4: Washing and drying
    The newly formed fibers are washed to remove residual processing materials and then dried to stabilize their structure.

    Infographic titled “TENCEL™ Lyocell Production Overview” showing the step-by-step process from eucalyptus tree wood to finished fabric. Visual panels depict wood pulp, fiber extrusion, yarn spinning, fabric weaving, and the final TENCEL™ Lyocell product.

    Step 5: Cutting into staple fibers
    Depending on the final use, the continuous filaments may be cut into shorter staple fibers.

    Step 6: Recovering the solvent
    During production, the solvent used to dissolve the cellulose is captured, purified, and returned to the system, which reduces material loss.

    Step 7: Converting into fabric
    The stabilized fibers are spun into yarn and then woven or knitted into fabric for textile applications

    Step 1: Preparing the cellulose
    It all starts with harvested wood, which is processed into purified wood pulp. That pulp serves as the base material from which the fiber is made.

    Step 2: Creating the solution
    The pulp is dissolved into a smooth, uniform liquid solution that can be shaped into fibers.

    Step 3: Forming the fiber
    This solution is pushed through very fine openings called spinnerets, forming continuous filaments that solidify into TENCEL™ Lyocell fiber.

    Step 4: Washing and drying
    The newly formed fibers are washed to remove residual processing materials and then dried to stabilize their structure.

    Step 5: Cutting into staple fibers
    Depending on the final use, the continuous filaments may be cut into shorter staple fibers.

    Step 6: Recovering the solvent
    During production, the solvent used to dissolve the cellulose is captured, purified, and returned to the system, which reduces material loss.

    Step 7: Converting into fabric
    The stabilized fibers are spun into yarn and then woven or knitted into fabric for textile applications

    Infographic titled “TENCEL™ Lyocell Production Overview” showing the step-by-step process from eucalyptus tree wood to finished fabric. Visual panels depict wood pulp, fiber extrusion, yarn spinning, fabric weaving, and the final TENCEL™ Lyocell product.

    What Are the Key Benefits of TENCEL™ Lyocell?

    Comfort and Hygiene-Related Performance

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home Supports a natural dry feeling through moisture control. 

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home Helps reduce the development of odor-causing bacteria.

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home Naturally soft and smooth to the touch.

    Sustainability and Material Responsibility

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home Produced using REFIBRA™ technology, which incorporates recycled textile waste into new fibers. 

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home Manufactured with at least 50% lower carbon emissions and water consumption*. 

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home Derived from the natural raw material wood. 

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home Certified for biodegradability and compostability in various environments. 

    TENCEL™ Lyocell Bedding Collections by Orchids Lux Home

    Now that you understand the fiber, here is how it translates into actual bedding you can use every day. Orchids Lux Home applies TENCEL™ Lyocell across select collections designed for comfort, versatility, and easy layering.

    Merida Collection

    Collage showcasing TENCEL™ Lyocell bedding products including a duvet cover, pillow shams, sheet set, and coverlet. Features neatly styled beds and pillows in white and deep blue, highlighting the fabric’s smooth, refined finish.

    Merida Lyocell 400TC Sateen Sheet Set (with pillowcases)

    Your sheets are the first thing your skin touches every night, so feel matters. The Merida Sheet Set is made with 400 thread count sateen fabric made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers, offering a lightweight, smooth surface that feels clean and comfortable against the skin.

    The look is simple and understated, which makes it easy to pair with almost any bedroom style. The set is available in Beige, Mist, Navy, and White, and is OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified.

    Each Sheet Set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and pillowcases sized to the set. Pillowcases are also available separately.

    Merida Lyocell 400TC Sateen Sheet Set (with pillowcases)

    Your sheets are the first thing your skin touches every night, so feel matters. The Merida Sheet Set is made with 400 thread count sateen fabric made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers, offering a lightweight, smooth surface that feels clean and comfortable against the skin.

    The look is simple and understated, which makes it easy to pair with almost any bedroom style. The set is available in Beige, Mist, Navy, and White, and is OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified.

    Each Sheet Set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and pillowcases sized to the set. Pillowcases are also available separately.

    Collage showcasing TENCEL™ Lyocell bedding products including a duvet cover, pillow shams, sheet set, and coverlet. Features neatly styled beds and pillows in white and deep blue, highlighting the fabric’s smooth, refined finish.

    Merida Lyocell 400TC Duvet Cover Set (with Shams)

    If you like a coordinated bed with a polished finish, the Merida Duvet Cover set creates that complete look. Made with 400 thread count sateen fabric made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers, the solid reversible Duvet Cover and matching Shams work well on their own or layered with other textures. Available in Beige, Mist, and White, this set offers flexibility whether your style is minimal or layered. It is also OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified, adding an extra layer of assurance.

    Merida Lyocell Diamond Quilted Coverlet (with Shams)

    The Merida Coverlet is ideal when you want something lightweight but structured. Featuring a diamond-quilted design, it uses a 400 thread count sateen shell made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers and a cotton fiber fill, creating breathable layering that works across seasons. It can be used as a finishing layer or as a decorative accent to add depth to your bedding setup. Coordinating shams are available and sold separately, so you can style the look your way.

    Merida Fabric Swatches

    If you prefer to see and feel the fabric before committing, swatches are available to help you review the color and texture in your own space.

    Porto Collection

    Porto Lyocell 400TC Sateen Sheet Set (with Pillowcases)

    The Porto Sheet Set is designed as a simple, reliable foundation for your bed. Made with 400 thread count sateen fabric made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers, it offers a lightweight and smooth feel that many people appreciate during warmer months or if they tend to sleep warm.

    The set is OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified and comes in White/Beige, White/Mist, and White/Navy, giving you a clean base with subtle contrast.

    Each set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and pillowcases sized to the set. Pillowcases are also available separately in Standard and King sizes.

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home

    Porto Fabric Swatch​

    Swatches are available for the Porto collection as well, making it easier to check the fabric and color combination before placing your order.

    Porto Lyocell 400TC Sateen Sheet Set (with Pillowcases)​

    The Porto Sheet Set is designed as a simple, reliable foundation for your bed. Made with 400 thread count sateen fabric made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers, it offers a lightweight and smooth feel that many people appreciate during warmer months or if they tend to sleep warm.

    The set is OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified and comes in White/Beige, White/Mist, and White/Navy, giving you a clean base with subtle contrast. Each set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and pillowcases sized to the set. Pillowcases are also available separately in Standard and King sizes.

    Everything You Need to Know About TENCEL™ Lyocell - Orchids Lux Home

    Porto Fabric Swatch​

    Swatches are available for the Porto collection as well, making it easier to check the fabric and color combination before placing your order.

    How Should You Wash TENCEL™ Lyocell Bedding?

    Before you toss your TENCEL™ Lyocell bedding into the wash, take a quick look at the care label. Those instructions are specific to how your product was made and finished, so they should always come first. The tips below are general washing recommendations to help maintain the look and feel of bedding made with these fibers.

    – Machine Wash in Cold Water: Cold water is your safest option. It helps reduce stress on the fibers and supports long-term fabric quality.

    – Wash Separately: Try to wash your bedding on its own. Zippers, hooks, and rough trims from other items can cause snagging or friction over time.

    – Use a Gentle Cycle: Choose a gentle or delicate setting. There is no need for long wash times or heavy spinning, which can put unnecessary strain on the fabric.

    – Use a Mild Detergent: Stick with a mild detergent and make sure it is fully dissolved before washing. Avoid optical brighteners and skip fabric softener, as they can affect the fabric over time.

    – Do Not Bleach: Bleach can weaken fibers and lead to discoloration. It is best to avoid it altogether.

    – Tumble Dry Low or Line Dry Indoors: If you can, line dry indoors. If you prefer using a dryer, keep it on low heat with a low tumble setting.

    – Remove Promptly: Take your bedding out as soon as the cycle finishes. This helps reduce wrinkles and prevents extra friction from sitting in the drum.

    – Avoid Direct Sunlight: When air drying, choose a shaded and ventilated space. Direct sunlight over time can cause fading.

    – Warm Iron if Needed: If you like a crisp finish, use a low to medium heat setting. Avoid high temperatures to help maintain fabric integrity.

    – Dry Clean if Needed: Dry cleaning is an option if necessary. Always follow professional care instructions for the best results.

    How to Maintain TENCEL™ Lyocell Bedding?

    Washing is important, but long-term care goes beyond the laundry cycle. How you store, handle, and use your bedding also plays a role in maintaining its look and feel over time.

    – Storage: When not in use, store bedding made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers in a cool, dry place. Keep it away from direct sunlight and excess heat.

    – Stain Removal: Spills happen. If you notice a stain, try to treat it sooner rather than later. Instead of scrubbing hard, gently blot the area, soak if needed, and wash as recommended. Scrubbing can push the stain deeper into the fabric. The sooner you treat it, the easier it usually is to remove.

    – Pilling: You may notice slight pilling at first, especially in areas that experience more friction. This is common with natural-fiber textiles and does not mean the fabric is defective. Following washing instructions and reducing friction, such as avoiding rough fabrics or abrasive contact, can help minimize pilling over time.

    – Ironing: If you prefer a crisp look, you can use a warm iron on a low to medium setting. Steam can help release wrinkles. Avoid high heat, as excessive temperatures can affect the fabric’s surface and structure.

    Conclusion​

    Now that you understand what TENCEL™ Lyocell is, where it comes from, and how it performs in bedding, choosing the right set becomes a lot less confusing. You can shop with more confidence and focus on what truly fits your comfort preferences.

    If you are ready to experience it for yourself, explore the TENCEL™ Lyocell bedding collections at Orchids Lux Home and find the option that feels right for your space and your sleep.

    FAQs

    What is TENCEL™ Lyocell?

    It is a regenerated cellulosic fiber produced from wood-based cellulose and identified by a registered trademark. It is used in textile applications that require controlled production standards and material consistency.

    Is TENCEL™ Lyocell the same as lyocell?

    Lyocell is the generic name of the fiber and manufacturing process. TENCEL™ Lyocell refers specifically to lyocell fibers produced under the TENCEL™ trademark and associated quality standards.

    What raw material is used to make TENCEL™ Lyocell?

    TENCEL™ Lyocell is derived from wood-based cellulose, commonly sourced from eucalyptus wood processed into pulp prior to fiber manufacturing.

    Why is TENCEL™ Lyocell used in bedding?

    TENCEL™ Lyocell is used in bedding because it provides a comfortable sleep surface that feels gentle against the skin and supports a cooler, drier sleep environment. It is also derived from wood-based cellulose and produced through a resource-conscious process, making it a more sustainable material choice.

    How should TENCEL™ Lyocell bedding be washed?

    Bedding made with TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers should be washed in cold water on a gentle cycle, using a mild detergent and avoiding bleach and fabric softener.

    Last Updated on: February 24, 2026