Tencel® is the registered trade name for Lyocell, which is a biodegradable fabric made from wood pulp cellulose. It started to grow in popularity in the late 1990s, and now you can find a variety of clothing made with the fabric.

Most compare the original Tencel® garments to rayon in feel, but it can be made in different forms. Tencel A100® is a new form meant for stretchy knit garments. Earlier forms of Tencel® either had a blousy silky feel or a peach skin or moleskin finish. Blends with other fibers can produce a variety of different Tencel® finishes, but you will most commonly find peach skin type Tencel®.

The manufacturer of Tencel® claims the fabric to be environmentally friendly and a good choice for people with sensitive skin. Yet this may not always be true. While Tencel® is made from wood fibers and is biodegradable, it is difficult to dye the fabric without treatment with a number of different chemicals that are neither environmentally friendly nor suitable for people with sensitive skin. It’s a good idea to check with Tencel® manufacturers to find out whether the fabric would be your best choice.

The statements that makers of Tencel® make that are easy to verify are about its relative easy care. The garments are often sold as good for travel because they pack light and retain their shape. Many Tencel® pieces are machine washable; though you should follow the label’s instructions for specific wear. If washed in cold water, Tencel® garments shrink about 3% with the first washing, but then won’t shrink in future washes. Tencel® also dries quickly, so drip-drying it may not take long.

While Tencel® was first primarily featured in women’s clothing, it’s now being used in a variety of applications. You may find Tencel® sheets, upholstery fabric, blankets, and towels. In towels, you can note that Tencel® is more absorbent than cotton even, and can make for quick drying after your morning shower.

There are some conflicting opinions regarding the ability of this fabric to breathe. Some say it is quite breathable, while others state the fabric is unusually warm. You might want to consider trying a single piece before buying a whole set of Tencel® clothing. Many do agree that the fabric drapes beautifully, providing a great look when worn. Manufacturers of Tencel® also state that the fabric is inexpensively made, but this does not necessarily translate to inexpensive prices for clothing made from it. Currently, Tencel® is fairly expensive to purchase. A shirt/pants or shirt/skirt set is often over 100 US dollars (USD).