What Is Lyocell? Fabric, Benefits, Care and Drawbacks

Lyocell is a regenerated cellulose fibre made from renewable materials such as wood and bamboo. Unlike conventional viscose production, lyocell uses a closed loop system that recovers and reuses up to 99% of the solvent. TENCEL™ is Lenzing’s brand name for its lyocell fibres, not a separate material.

The raw material is cut into small chips and processed to remove lignin and other components, leaving purified cellulose known as dissolving pulp. This pulp is then dissolved in an organic solvent called NMMO and spun into fibres.

There is no chemical reaction in this process. It simply changes the physical form of natural cellulose, making lyocell a more environmentally responsible option. This reduces solvent use, wastewater and related emissions.

Lyocell, modal and viscose represent three generations of the same fibre family. TENCEL™ Lyocell is Lenzing’s branded lyocell.

1. Viscose is the first generation in the 1890s and uses a traditional process.
2. Modal is the second generation in the 1950s with greater wet strength.
3. Lyocell is the third generation in the 1990s. It’s stronger and produced through a more sustainable process.

For a comparison of how these three fibres perform in bedding, see Sensoire lyocell sheets.

Bamboo lyocell follows the same closed loop solvent spinning process used to make eucalyptus lyocell. The difference lies in the cellulose source.

Raw Material Cultivation

Bamboo grows quickly and can regenerate from its roots after harvesting. Eucalyptus also grows rapidly, but it usually has a longer harvesting cycle.

Pulp Processing

Bamboo requires additional processing during pulp production. Eucalyptus pulping is more established with consistent yields.

To learn about how bamboo lyocell compares with cotton, see our guide to bamboo vs cotton sheets.

Lyocell is breathable and absorbs moisture well. It moves moisture away from the skin, helping the fabric feel cooler and less clammy during sleep. According to the study, bamboo lyocell records air permeability of 695 mm/s and moisture regain of 13%, compared with 650 mm/s and 11% for TENCEL™ Lyocell. Both are well suited to hot sleepers, humid bedrooms and people who sweat during the night.

• Thermal conductivity: Higher means cooler feel.
• Air permeability: Higher means better airflow.
• Water vapour resistance: Lower means easier moisture transfer.
• Moisture regain: Higher means greater moisture absorption and less wetness.
• Surface friction: Lower means a smoother feel.

Lyocell fabric shrinks slightly after washing. But it shrinks less than cotton. Without preshrinking, the first wash may cause shrinkage of around 8%, depending on the fabric structure, weight and finishing process.

Most lyocell fabrics are preshrunk to improve dimensional stability. Overfeeding allows extra fabric to enter during production, leaving room for later shrinkage. Mechanical preshrinking contracts the fabric before it is made into a finished product. With proper treatment, the first wash shrinkage of 100% lyocell fabric is usually around 1%.

How to Wash Lyocell Sheets

1. Wash in cold or lukewarm water.
2. Select the gentle cycle on your washing machine.
3. Use mild, pH neutral detergent and avoid bleach.
4. Do not wring or twist the fabric firmly after washing.
5. Air dry in shade and avoid high heat tumble drying.
6. Use low temperature ironing only when necessary.

For more details on caring for bamboo lyocell, see our guide on how to wash bamboo sheets.

Sensoire bamboo lyocell is a good choice for people looking for comfort, breathability and a premium feel. However, it may not suit those who prefer low maintenance bedding or need fabric that can withstand heavy friction. Wash it gently and avoid high heat and rough surfaces to help it last longer.