How should lyocell and TENCEL garments be washed?

Main answer

Wash lyocell and TENCEL garments in cool to warm water on a gentle cycle with a mild detergent, avoid hot drying and rough friction, and dry them on low heat or flat. Lyocell is a strong cellulose fibre that can fibrillate, forming a fine surface fuzz, so gentle handling keeps the surface smooth. Garments made from lyocell blends should be washed according to the weakest fibre in the mix.

What lyocell is

Lyocell is a cellulose fibre made from wood pulp using a solvent spinning process, and TENCEL is a brand of lyocell and modal fibres from Lenzing. In the US, lyocell has its own generic fibre name for labelling. The fibre is strong, absorbent and smooth, but cellulose fibres tend to wrinkle and can fibrillate when wet and rubbed.

Fibrillation and pilling

When wet, lyocell fibres can split into tiny fibrils at the surface, creating a soft fuzz or pills. Fabric makers often use finishing steps, such as enzyme treatments, to control this, but friction in washing can still raise it. Using a mesh bag, a gentle cycle and washing with similar soft items reduces rubbing.

Washing and drying

Use cool or warm water and a mild detergent without bleach. Do not overload the machine, and remove garments promptly to limit wrinkles. Tumble dry on low or hang to dry, and shake out garments while damp. A cool iron or steamer smooths wrinkles. Check the label, since blends with elastane or cotton may need different care.

Label and brand guidance

Under the FTC Care Labeling Rule, apparel must carry care instructions. Fibre brands such as Lenzing publish information for TENCEL products, but it is the garment’s care label that applies to your product. If you make products with lyocell, wash-test finished garments and check how the surface behaves before you set the label. See underwear fabrics.