Different Types of Tencel Sheets
Tencel material can be made into several different types of fabric.
- Tencel Modal: Tencel Modal fabrics are known for their soft texture and flexibility. The fabric drapes over the body creating a comforting night’s sleep. This material is pleasant on the skin and can also be blended with other materials.
- Tencel Lyocell: Tencel Lyocell is known for its softness but in addition to that Lyocell is especially absorbing and breathable. The material will absorb moisture, leaving you dry throughout the night. The ventilation abilities will be breathable and allow hot air to escape easily.
- Other blends: Tencel fabric can be blended with other common sheet fabrics like cotton, linen, or polyester. Some of these blends enhance Tencel’s qualities, such as linen which is also highly breathable.
Fit, Color, and Pattern
Tencel sheets resit shrinking and tend to keep their color vibrancy over time or with many washes.
Some Tencel sheets are only available for larger bed sizes like queen and king. If you’re looking for sheets to fit a twin or a specialized king bed like a California or split king, check with the brand to make sure the sheets are available in your preferred size. Fitted Tencel sheets vary in what depth of mattress they can accommodate. Some brands only fit mattresses up to 13 inches in height while others can fit dept of up to 18 inches. Check with the brand to make sure it will fit your mattress snugly without popping off because it’s too small or needing to tuck excess fabric under the mattress.
Almost all manufacturers offer Tencel sheets in neutral colors with a few options for darker colors like navy and dark green. Choose a color that matches your existing bedroom decor and bedding. Neutral colors tend to match with many others, making them a versatile choice that will match even if you change the color of the room or the comforter, for example.
Finding the Right Tencel Sheets
Tencel sheets are a great investment for those looking for a comfortable night’s sleep while being environmentally conscious. Those who have trouble getting too hot or too cold will benefit from Tencel materials, as well as those who suffer from allergies. Here’s how to decide on the right Tencel sheets.
- Temperature: Tencel sheets are known for being cool, making them a comfortable option for hot sleepers, those who wake up sweating, or those sleeping in warm environments. The weight and weave of Tencel sheets is often conducive to ventilation and breathability. At night, the body doesn’t thermoregulate as well as it does during the day, so the ability for sheets to breathe is important.
- Allergy-prone sleepers: Sleepers sensitive to allergens and microbes like dust mites will find respite with Tencel sheets. The fabric is known to be allergen-resistant and won’t absorb air particles that may contain allergens. Those with sensitive skin will also benefit from Tencel sheets since they’re produced with eco-friendly chemicals and not treated with bleach or formaldehyde which can cause rashes.
- Environmentally-conscious sleepers: The eco-friendly material and process to produce Tencel sheets make them a great option for those looking to be environmentally friendly. The closed-loop process ensures there’s no environmental impact from production.
Tencel Sheet Care and Maintenance
Tencel sheets can be machine washed and dried. Most manufacturers recommend washing Tencel sheets in cold water. Hot water can damage the material. Tencel sheets blended with other materials such as cotton can be washed in warm water. The sheets can either be dried in the dryer on a low-heat setting or line dried. Tencel dries quickly, so line-drying isn’t as inconveneint or as slow as it can be with some fabrics.
It’s important to not use fabric softeners on Tencel sheets. Remove the sheets promptly after they’re dry and avoid over-drying. A warm iron can be used on sheets if they have wrinkles, but Tencel fabric doesn’t wrinkle easily. Manufacturers warn of over-drying sheets in the dryer or drying them on a hot setting. Both can warp or damage Tencel fabric. Bleach should also be avoided when washing your sheets.
Always follow the manufacturer’s washing instructions that come with the sheets to make sure they’re properly cared for and will last as long as possible.
What Else Should You Consider When Buying Tencel Sheets?
Before buying Tencel sheets, check these aspects match your desires.
- Sets or seperate: Most Tencel sheets are available to buy in either a set or as separates. The set will contain one fitted sheet, one top sheet and one or two pillowcases depending on which size you’re buying. If you’re only looking for one of these items, you may be able to purchase the pieces individually.
- Blends: Before buying Tencel sheets, decide if you’re looking for a sheet that is made with 100 percent Tencel or if you’re looking for a blend of Tencel with another fabric. Common blends include Tencel with cotton, organic cotton, linen or polyester. These will also alter the price, usually making blends cheaper than sheets that are 100 percent Tencel.
- Return policy and warranty: If you’re unsure of how you’ll like Tencel sheets, check the return policy. Many companies offer a generous return policy where you’re able to try the sheets on your bed for anywhere from 30-120 nights to decide if the sheets are right for you. If you’re not satisfied, returning them within the allotted time frame will qualify you for a full refund. Some manufacturers offer a warranty on the sheets.
