TENCEL Care: Tips for Keeping Your Sustainable Style

The fashion industry is the third most polluting industry in the world. As consumers become more aware, sustainable fashion brands are responding by utilising more responsible materials, such as TENCEL™. So how do you keep your TENCEL clothing looking fresh and vibrant? The good news is that caring for this fibre is pretty easy. With just a few simple tips and a little know-how, you can easily maintain the beauty and durability of your TENCEL garments.
Read on to know more about TENCEL care and ensure that you always get your money's worth as you help in conserving the environment

What is TENCEL and Why Choose It?

Before anything else, let us first have a deeper understanding of what TENCEL is and why it is a sustainable and eco-friendly choice.

TENCEL™ is a brand name owned by Lenzing AG, renowned for its high-quality lyocell fibres. These are made from wood pulp using a solvent spinning process that uses virtually no harmful chemicals. This makes lyocell fibres highly sustainable and biodegradable.

This material is often used for making luxurious bed sheets, proving its reputation for comfort and softness. This gentle, breathable material is not only perfect for a restful night’s sleep but also makes an excellent choice for clothing. Its smooth texture and moisture-wicking properties ensure that TENCEL garments feel as good against the skin as high-quality bed linens do, providing all-day comfort and style​.

Some key benefits of TENCEL clothing:

• It uses up to 80% less water compared to conventional cotton production.
• The manufacturing process reuses and recycles up to 99% of the chemicals used.
• TENCEL fibres are durable, breathable and offer moisture absorption.
• Garments made with TENCEL are generally smoother, more comfortable, and have a better drape than other natural materials due to its soft handfeel.

In essence, by choosing TENCEL clothing you are opting for a sustainable material that offers great performance and comfort, while reducing your environmental impact.

How to Wash TENCEL Clothing

When you purchase TENCEL clothing, be mindful of how you care for it to retain its performance and durability. Here are the basic guidelines for washing TENCEL garments:

Use Cold or Warm Water

Unlike other fabrics, TENCEL garments are particularly sensitive with hot water. In fact, it can damage them. Make sure to use warm or cold water only, ideally at a temperature of 30 degrees Celsius,  and avoid hot water washes.

Use Mild Detergent

When washing TENCEL clothing, use a mild detergent that is specifically made for delicate fabrics. Avoid detergents with harsh chemicals that can damage the fibres over time.

In addition to using a gentle detergent and cold water, follow these steps for effective TENCEL care:

• Wash TENCEL garments separately from other clothes, especially those made from synthetic fabrics. This reduces the chance of snagging and pilling.
• Use a small amount of detergent. No more than what's needed to create a good foam. Excess detergent can build up residue that attracts dirt.
• Avoid using fabric softeners as they coat the fibres and reduce the breathability of TENCEL.

These simple guidelines can help you maximise the lifespan of your TENCEL clothing and keep them looking and feeling like new for much longer.

Air Dry After Each Wear

To extend the life of your TENCEL garments, air dry them after every wear. This helps prevent the buildup of bacteria and odour, and reduces the frequency of washes which can degrade the fibres. Simply hang up the garment after wearing and let it air dry naturally.

By following these basic steps, you can help your TENCEL clothing last longer while retaining its comfort, performance and shape. Make it a habit to check the garment labels for any specific washing instructions as well.

Drying TENCEL: Hang, Tumble, or Both?

So how about drying? Do you just hang TENCEL garments to air dry or is tumble drying okay too? The answer is - it depends.

Hanging TENCEL garments up to air dry is always the most gentle and recommended option. Since TENCEL fibres are sensitive, tumble drying on high heat can cause damage, shrinkage and pilling over time.

So for the longest lifespan and best care of your TENCEL clothing, air drying is the way to go. Simply hang garments up on hangers or over a drying rack. This allows the fibres to dry naturally while maintaining their shape.

In a pinch, low heat tumble drying may be okay for some TENCEL garments. Always check the care label first and use the lowest heat setting possible, preferably under 30 degrees Celsius. Avoid using the fluff or spin cycles as these can cause excess wear and tear.

Ironing TENCEL: Tips for a Smooth Finish

Ironing clothes is one of the most common tasks we perform to maintain a neat appearance. Whether it's about keeping your elevated basics clothing in great shape or professional attire crisp, ironing TENCEL garments requires some special care.

Here are a few tips that can help you achieve smooth results and avoid damage to the fibres:

• Use a warm iron setting between the 'linen' and 'cotton' options. Avoid the highest heat settings as these can cause scorching.
• Spray some water directly onto the TENCEL fibres before ironing. The moisture helps the fibres absorb heat more evenly without burning.
• Iron in small sections and move the iron continuously. Don't let the iron rest in one place for more than a few seconds.
• When ironing black TENCEL clothing, lay a thin tea towel or cotton cloth over the garment before ironing to protect the fabric. Alternatively, turn the garment inside out and iron on the wrong side to avoid any marks.

Stain Removal from TENCEL

If your TENCEL Clothing picks up an unfortunate stain, here are some tips for stain removal:

• For oil and grease stains, blot gently with a dry, clean cloth to remove excess oil. Then apply a small amount of dish soap directly onto the stain and gently rub in a circular motion. Rinse thoroughly with cool water and air dry.
• For coffee, tea and wine stains, soak the stained area in cold water immediately after the spill occurs. Apply a diluted solution of mild detergent or hair shampoo and let it sit for 5-10 minutes before rinsing thoroughly with cool water. Gently pat dry with a clean cloth.
• For makeup and cosmetic stains, first scrape off any excess product with a dull knife. Apply hair shampoo or gentle detergent directly onto the stain and work into a lather. Rinse thoroughly and air dry. Avoid excessive rubbing which can damage TENCEL fibres.

With proper care and stain removal techniques, your sustainable TENCEL clothing can last longer while retaining its natural comfort and performance.

Storing TENCEL: Tips for Long-Lasting Wear

The essence of wearing sustainable fabrics like TENCEL lies in taking proper care to extend their lifespan.

To ensure that your TENCEL clothing stands the test of time, follow these practical tips:

Do Not Use Wire Hangers

Wire hangers can be tough on delicate TENCEL fibres. Instead, use wooden or plastic hangers to avoid stretching or damaging the fabric. These materials are more gentle on TENCEL clothing and will help preserve their shape and quality for longer.

Store Flat or Folded

For long-lasting wear, store TENCEL clothing either folded neatly or laid flat. Avoid cramming items into drawers or suitcases as this can cause wrinkles and creases that are difficult to remove.

Brush Regularly

Use a soft-bristled clothes brush to remove any accumulated dust from your TENCEL clothing before storing. Brushing helps distribute the fibres evenly and keeps the fabric looking fresh.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

Prolonged exposure to UV light from windows can cause TENCEL fibres to fade over time. Store clothing away from direct sunlight to maintain its original colour and hue for longer.

Common TENCEL Care Mistakes to Avoid

Most people tend to forget that TENCEL care is more than just machine washing. Here are a few care mistakes that can reduce the longevity of your sustainable TENCEL clothing:

Using Too Much Detergent

Overloading the washing machine with detergent can coat TENCEL fibres and prevent them from 'breathing'. Use a mild, pH-neutral detergent and only fill the dispenser to the recommended amount for your load size.

Drying on High Heat

Excessive heat from a clothes dryer can damage TENCEL fibres and cause them to shrink or lose shape. For best results, air dry your TENCEL clothing or use a low dryer setting.

Ironing at High Temperatures

When ironing TENCEL clothing, be sure to use a low-to-medium temperature setting. High temperatures can melt or scorch the fibres, shortening the life of your garments. Always test the heat on an invisible part of the fabric first.
Supporting sustainable fashion shouldn't be limited to the purchase itself; taking proper care of your TENCEL clothing is equally important to fully benefit from its eco-friendly qualities. By following these simple storage and care tips, you can help your TENCEL garments last for years to come.
Rock Daisy offers a range of TENCEL garments that are designed to last. Visit our website and see our various collections. From classic tops to eco-friendly dresses, every piece is crafted to stand the test of time with proper care.