What kind of fabric is lyocell?

Looking for suitable fabrics for your next sustainable collection? Then there are a number of points you should pay attention to when you judge a fabric. For example, be aware of the amount of water it takes to make a fabric. Or find out how much impact the production has on the environment and how many chemicals are used during the production.

Fortunately, we have already done this research for you. A good contender? Lyocell!

In this blog we will tell you what lyocell is, which characteristics this fabric has, what the advantages and disadvantages of lyocell are and how you can wash and iron the fabric.

In short: everything you want to know about lyocell can be found in this blog.

What is lyocell?

Lyocell is – as we just hinted – one of the most durable textiles. The lyocell fabric is made of cellulose from wood pulp from eucalyptus trees or beech trees: natural materials.

The chemicals used to liquefy wood chips are fully recycled. Because of this, no harmful substances end up in nature. The water used during the production of lyocell is also being reused.

That means: less water consumption, fewer chemicals and fewer emissions. What’s not to like?

With us you will find Lyocell fabrics under the brand name Tencel (from sustainable fabric manufacturer Lenzing).

The characteristics and benefits of lyocell

This fabric is not only good for our planet, but also for humans. Besides being sustainable, lyocell is also beautiful, pleasant to wear and pleasant to work with. It is a supple, strong fabric that is extremely versatile. For example, you can use lyocell as an alternative for suede, wool, silk blends and even denim.

But those are not the only benefits of lyocell clothing! Because the fabric ventilates well, the heat from the body can easily pass through the fabric. As a result, it does not remain locked up and there is less bacterial growth. The consequence? No unpleasant smells from, for example, sweat.

Because lyocell is made of wood, the fabric can absorb moisture well. Your lyocell clothing will dry super-fast. Ideal for your next summer collection.

The disadvantages of lyocell

Lyocell has almost no disadvantages. Although – after a long search – we found some small points.

Because the biggest parts of both water and chemicals are being reused, a closed-loop system is created. Still a chemical process remains necessary to make wood a fine, soft fiber. Besides that, lyocell can eventually start tot fluff or pill. To counter this – and to ensure that the paint is properly absorbed – the fabric is edited. Without this treatment, the colours will not stay beautiful for long.

Unfortunately, it is not an 100% naturel end product, but it is certainly a sustainable alternative to polyester, for example.

Wash and iron lyocell

In principle, lyocell clothes can simply be washed in the washing machine, although hand washing is preferred.

Are you going for hand washing? Then use a fine detergent and cold water. Do not wring out the material, but squeeze out excess water to prevent damage.

Washing in the machine? Then use a washing program for delicates at a low temperature and a low speed. The fabric is sensitive, so be careful!

Because lyocell is quite resistant to creasing, you hardly have to use an iron after drying in the dryer. You prefer to use a clothing steamer to ‘iron’ lyocell clothing items. Don’t you have these? Then use a steam iron above the clothes (not directly on it). With a normal iron you can iron any wrinkles out of the fabric at an average temperature.

Look at our lyocell assortment

At House of U you can buy lyocell fabrics and have it printed. Currently, we have five different types of lyocell in our assortment. Would you like personal advice on which fabric suits your project or design? Then contact us. This can be done via chat, e-mail and by telephone. We are happy to help you!

Did you find this blog interesting and are you looking for more facts, tips and other information about the latest fabric innovations? Then take a look at our blog. Here we will keep you updated about all new developments.