Short answer
Lyocell is a fairly easy-care cellulose fabric, but it does best with gentle treatment. As a general approach, wash it cool on a gentle cycle with mild detergent, avoid bleach and fabric softener, and dry it on low heat or by air. Always check the garment’s care label first, since finishes and blends vary, and the label takes priority over general advice.
What lyocell and Tencel are made from
Lyocell is a regenerated cellulose fiber, usually made from wood pulp. Eucalyptus is common, but other woods can be used. The pulp is dissolved in a solvent and spun into fibers, and the process is often described as a closed loop in which much of the solvent is recovered and reused. Tencel is a brand name owned by Lenzing for its lyocell and modal fibers, so Tencel lyocell is a type of lyocell. Like viscose and modal, lyocell belongs to the wider rayon family, which our guide on whether viscose is breathable explains.
Washing lyocell
- Check the label. It overrides everything here.
- Water temperature: cool or lukewarm (around 30C or 85F is commonly recommended) is the lower-risk choice.
- Cycle: a gentle or delicate cycle with a low spin speed helps avoid creasing and wear.
- Protect it: turning garments inside out and using a mesh laundry bag can reduce snagging and surface wear.
- Detergent: use a mild liquid detergent. Avoid bleach and harsh additives.
- Fabric softener: it is generally best skipped, as it can coat fibers and reduce softness and absorbency.
- Sort colors: wash dark and bright items separately for the first few washes in case of dye bleed.
- Hand washing: gentle hand washing in cool water works well for delicate pieces. Press water out rather than wringing.
Drying lyocell
Air drying flat or on a hanger is the gentlest option. If the label allows machine drying, use a low heat or delicate setting and remove items while slightly damp to cut down on creasing. High heat is the usual cause of shrinkage and a stiff hand. Lyocell can shrink a little, especially the first time it is washed, so avoid hot washing and drying on a new item. If shrinkage is a concern with any rayon-type fabric, our rayon vs cotton article covers why heat is problematic.
Ironing and wrinkles
Lyocell wrinkles less than some rayons, but it can still crease. Iron on a low to medium setting while the fabric is slightly damp, or steam it, ideally on the reverse side. Our ironing basics by fabric type lists temperatures for other fabrics. Test on a hidden area first. Hanging it right after washing helps reduce wrinkles.
Stains, pilling and storage
- Treat stains quickly by blotting, not rubbing, and use mild stain treatments after testing on a hidden spot.
- Washing inside out and avoiding rough items helps reduce pilling and surface fuzz (see also fabrics that don’t pill). Some lyocell fabrics have a peach-skin finish that can wear with abrasion.
- Store folded or on a padded hanger in a cool, dry place.
Can you dye lyocell (Rit)?
Lyocell is a cellulose fiber, so it generally takes dyes made for cellulosic fibers such as cotton and linen. Some home dye brands, including Rit, make products intended for natural and cellulose fibers, and many people report workable results, but outcomes depend on the fabric, any finish, and the dye. A test swatch is a sensible first step, and pure lyocell is likely to dye differently from a blend with polyester or elastane, which may take color unevenly. Follow the dye maker’s instructions for fiber type.
Is lyocell good for hot weather?
Often, yes. Lyocell is breathable, absorbs moisture well, and has a smooth, cool-feeling surface, so many people find it comfortable in warm conditions. As with other cellulose fabrics, weight and weave matter: a light, loose weave is cooler than a heavy twill, as our best shirt fabric for summer guide explains. For comparison with other fibers, see modal vs cotton.
Downsides of lyocell
- It can wrinkle and may need ironing or steaming.
- It tends to cost more than basic cotton or viscose.
- Some fabrics can pill, fibrillate (develop surface fuzz) or wear with abrasion.
- It can shrink if washed or dried hot.
- Environmental claims depend on the producer; the closed-loop process is a plus, but sourcing and energy use still vary, so look for certifications if this matters to you.