Is TENCEL™ the same thing as Lyocell?

TENCEL™ is the certified brand name owned by Lenzing AG. While TENCEL™ produces both lyocell and modal fibers, people commonly use "Tencel" to refer specifically to certified sustainable lyocell.

Lyocell vs. Modal: Closed-Loop Solvent Spinning vs. Beechwood Softness

Lyocell and Modal are the two most advanced and sustainable members of the rayon family, both manufactured prominently by Austria's Lenzing Group under the TENC

Lyocell and Modal are the two most advanced and sustainable members of the rayon family, both manufactured prominently by Austria's Lenzing Group under the TENCEL™ brand. While both offer silky drape, breathability, and plant origins, Lyocell is produced using a closed-loop organic solvent (NMMO) that recovers over 99.5% of water and solvent, and yields a slightly crisper, more moisture-managing textile.

Verdict Guidance:

Choose **Lyocell** for eco-conscious woven shirts, chic jumpsuits, summer denim alternatives, breathable bed sheets, and activewear. Choose **Modal** for buttery underwear, stretchy jersey loungewear, baby onesies, and soft knit dresses.

Detailed Head-to-Head Comparison

Manufacturing & Environmental Impact

Lyocell (TENCEL™): Closed-loop organic solvent spinning (N-methylmorpholine N-oxide); >99.5% solvent recovered.

Modal: Modified viscose process using zinc and chemical baths, though Lenzing uses high recovery.

Lyocell represents the gold standard of circular chemical processing in man-made cellulosic fibers, using non-toxic amine oxide solvents.

Tactile Hand & Surface Finish

Lyocell (TENCEL™): Smooth, cool, slightly dry-silky hand with excellent body; can be given a peach-skin finish.

Modal: Buttery, plush, and liquid-soft with noticeable stretch and cling.

Modal feels slightly more plush and stretchy (perfect for knits). Lyocell feels sleeker and more substantial in woven garments.

Moisture & Thermal Regulation

Lyocell (TENCEL™): Micro-fibril structure channels moisture rapidly away from skin; naturally inhibits bacteria.

Modal: Highly absorbent and breathable, but holds moisture slightly longer than lyocell.

Lyocell excels in active warm climates and hot summer bedding because of its exceptional sub-microscopic moisture transport.

Tensile Strength & Durability

Lyocell (TENCEL™): Highest wet and dry strength of any cellulosic fiber, rivaling polyester in toughness.

Modal: Stronger than viscose, but slightly less tensile strength than lyocell under heavy tension.

Lyocell wovens can be washed repeatedly without losing fiber integrity or splitting seams.