What is Tencel?

What is Tencel and why is it becoming popular?

As sustainability takes centre stage in fashion and lifestyle choices, more Indians are becoming conscious of the fabrics they use daily. One material that has been gaining attention is TENCEL™, a brand of fibre made from wood pulp.

Tencel stands out for its softness, breathability, and eco-friendly production. Whether it’s, bedsheets, or home textiles, this fabric is winning people clothing over for being both comfortable and planet-friendly.

So, what exactly is Tencel? Simply put, it is a sustainable cellulose fibre created through an environmentally responsible process. It not only feels gentle on the skin but also has moisture-absorbing properties, making it perfect for India’s hot and humid climate.

In this guide, we’ll explore how Tencel is made, why it’s considered an eco-smart choice, and how it could be the future of sustainable living in India.

What are Lyocell and Modal Fibres in Tencel?

TENCEL™ is the brand name for fabrics made from two main types of fibres – Lyocell and Modal. Both are plant-based, derived from wood pulp, and are valued for their comfort, durability, and eco-friendly properties.

Lyocell:

This fibre is strong, versatile, and can easily be blended with other fabrics like cotton, wool, or even silk. It has excellent moisture-absorbing and sweat-wicking properties, making it ideal for India’s warm and humid climate. Among the two, Lyocell is also considered the eco-friendlier option, thanks to its sustainable production process.

Modal:

Made from beech wood, Modal fibres are known for their incredible softness and flexibility. Even after multiple washes, the fabric retains its smooth texture, which is why it’s often used in loungewear, innerwear, and premium home textiles.

Together, Lyocell and Modal give Tencel fabrics their unique balance of comfort, breathability, and sustainability—qualities that are becoming increasingly important for Indian consumers looking for eco-conscious lifestyle choices.

How is Tencel made?

• Sourcing the Raw Material: The process begins with sustainably sourced wood, typically from eucalyptus trees. These trees are grown on sustainably managed plantations, ensuring that the wood used does not contribute to deforestation.
• Pulp Production: The harvested wood is processed into pulp by breaking it down into cellulose. This pulp is then dissolved in a nontoxic solvent, creating a viscous solution.
• Fiber Spinning: The cellulose solution is extruded through fine holes to form long fibers. These fibers are then spun into yarn, which
  can be woven or knitted into fabric.
• Closed-Loop Process: One of the most significant environmental advantages of Tencel is its closed-loop production process. The
  solvent used to dissolve the wood pulp is almost entirely recovered and reused, minimizing waste and environmental impact.
  Additionally, the water used in the process is recycled, further reducing the ecological footprint.
• Finishing Touches: After spinning, the Tencel fibres are washed and dried, resulting in a fabric that is soft, breathable, and durable. The
  The final product is a high-quality material that can be used in a wide range of applications.

Is Tencel more Sustainable?

Tencel is often recognised as one of the most sustainable fabrics in the world and for good reason. From the way it’s produced to how it eventually returns to nature, every step of its lifecycle is designed with the environment in mind.

1. Reduced Water Usage
   Compared to cotton, Tencel production requires significantly less water, making it a smart choice for sustainability especially important in India, where water scarcity is a growing concern in several regions.
2. Responsibly Sourced Wood
   The wood used to make Tencel fibres comes from sustainably managed forests, certified by the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC). This ensures the raw materials are responsibly harvested with minimal environmental damage.
3. Biodegradable and Eco-Safe
   Tencel is fully biodegradable, meaning it naturally decomposes without releasing any harmful substances. Choosing Tencel-based products helps reduce the long-term burden on landfills.
4. Energy-Efficient Production
   Tencel is made using a closed-loop process, which recycles both the solvent and water used during manufacturing. This not only reduces waste but also helps lower the overall carbon footprint compared to conventional textile production.
5. Minimal Chemical Use
   Unlike synthetic fabrics, Tencel production doesn’t depend on harsh or toxic chemicals. The non-toxic solvent used is continuously recovered and reused, ensuring a clean and environmentally friendly process.

In short, Tencel stands out as a modern fabric that blends comfort with conscience, making it a great choice for eco-aware consumers in India who want to dress and live sustainably.