Tencel® + Tencel® Sun
From rayon to bamboo, tree-based fibers have long held promise as a renewable fabric source. Tencel® delivers on that promise with responsible sourcing and a closed-loop manufacturing process that results in fantastic fibers that are soft as silk and great at moisture management.
Read on to learn more about the environmental and performance benefits Tencel® and its UPF-rated version, Tencel® Sun.
What is Tencel®?
A soft, moisture-wicking fabric from a renewable resource, Tencel® is a brand of lyocell fiber. Lyocell fibers—like rayon and bamboo—are produced from the pulp of trees that has been dissolved and extruded into strands. We prefer Tencel® because it sources wood from sustainably managed forests and employs a closed-loop process that recovers and reuses more than 99% of the chemicals used in its production.
What is Tencel® Sun?
Tencel® Sun is a UPF-rated version of Tencel® that offers permanent, mineral-based UV-protection from the sun’s rays. By embedding natural Titanium Oxide pigments in the fiber—rather than applying an inorganic treatment to the surface of the fiber that will degrade with washing—Tencel® Sun offers durable, non-toxic sun protection with UPF-30 and UPF-50 ratings.
Why Use Tencel®?
From a performance perspective, Tencel® is a silky fiber with a fantastic drape. Naturally strong, it provides moisture management, odor control and a soft hand. These benefits are matched by its environmental responsibility: a cellulose-based fiber that’s naturally renewable and 100% biodegradable, Tencel® is produced from FSC-certified, sustainably managed forests of eucalyptus trees.
What’s the land-use impact of producing Tencel® from trees?
According to the Natural Resource Defense Council, the eucalyptus trees used to produce Tencel® don’t require irrigation or pesticides, can grow in forestland unsuitable for farming, and require one-fifth the land area of cotton.
How is Tencel® different from other, similar fibers?
We chose branded Tencel® over similar fibers like viscose rayon and bamboo rayon because we trust in its processing. FSC certification ensures transparency in the fiber’s origin, responsible sourcing, and that no ancient or endangered forests are logged in its production. In addition, Tencel’s® closed-loop manufacturing process, which recovers and reuses more than 99% of the required solvents, reduces the risk of toxic spills.
Where does Nau employ Tencel® fabrics?
We blend Tencel with organic cotton, recycled polyester and merino wool to create versatile, high-performance fabrics that wick moisture, dry quickly and feel great next to skin. You can find Tencel® fibers in our Astir, Wander, Flaxible and Twisted collections.
Where is Tencel® made?
The Tencel® we use at Nau is made by a long-time, trusted partner in Austria.
Does Tencel® have special care requirements?
Care for Tencel® is generally easy, and similar to cotton. To reduce wrinkling and creasing, remove from dryer promptly. For specific instructions, please refer to the care label in your Nau garment.
To learn more about Tencel, visit Lenzing.