Last updated 14 October 2026
What is lyocell?
Lyocell is a soft, breathable fabric made from wood pulp (cellulose), usually from eucalyptus trees. TENCEL™ is the brand name of the lyocell fibre made by Lenzing, so "TENCEL" and "lyocell" are used for the same kind of fabric. Lyocell is made in a closed-loop process, feels smooth against the skin and is increasingly used in clothing, bedding and other things worn or slept in.
How is lyocell produced?
Lyocell is made from wood pulp from the eucalyptus tree. The manufacturing process takes place in a closed circuit, which means that it does not create any waste. No aggressive or harmful chemicals are used, but only renewable materials, which makes the fabric completely biodegradable and more sustainable. Compared to cotton, the process requires less than half the water consumption.
Is lyocell sustainable?
Only renewable raw materials are used in the creation of lyocell making it fully biodegradable and eco-friendly. Compared to cotton, lyocell uses less than half as much water in production. This makes lyocell one of the most sustainable choices for textiles on the market.
The European Union awarded the lyocell production procedure with the 2000 European Environmental Award in the category “technology for sustainable development”.
What qualities does lyocell have?
Lyocell is a super soft silky fabric. The fabric is very durable due to its long fibers. It is smooth and light, feels soft against the skin, and is very breathable. Lyocell is good for temperature regulation and is moisture-wicking.
The combination of lyocell and zinc in a fabric
In our fabric, lyocell fibers have been combined with pharmaceutical-graded zinc oxide. High-quality recycled zinc is melted and oxidated to create a white powder of pure zinc oxide. The powder is then added to the lyocell fibers using a patented method. This results in a special lyocell fiber that is both sustainable for the environment and gentle on sensitive skin.
Lyocell in children's bedsheets
Lyocell is not waterproof on its own. It is a breathable fibre that absorbs moisture, which is why a waterproof bedsheet needs a separate barrier layer.
The Soothla bedsheet has a soft top fabric of 75% lyocell and 25% modal (both TENCEL™) against your child's skin, and a thin waterproof polyurethane membrane underneath that keeps the mattress dry. The top fabric is the part your child sleeps on, and the membrane protects the mattress. The sheet can be machine washed at up to 60°C.
Read more in our guide to bedding for children with eczema and our tips for washing baby clothes and bedding.
