How to Care for Lyocell Clothing: The Complete Guide
Lyocell is one of the easiest premium fabrics to care for, but like any natural cellulose fiber, it benefits from gentle handling.
With the right care, your garments can maintain their softness, shape and beautiful drape for years.
Here's everything you need to know.
What Is Lyocell?
Lyocell is a regenerated cellulose fiber made from wood sourced from certified or controlled forests. It belongs to the same family of fibers as viscose and modal but is produced using a different manufacturing process.
TENCEL™ Lyocell fibers are manufactured in a closed-loop process in which more than 99.8% of the solvent is recovered and reused, significantly reducing waste during production.
The result is a fabric that combines exceptional softness, breathability and durability.
Why Proper Care Matters
One of Lyocell's defining characteristics is its exceptionally smooth fiber surface.
High temperatures, harsh detergents and aggressive washing can gradually affect the fabric's appearance and feel over time.
Gentle care helps preserve:
- softness
- drape
- color
- strength
- overall garment longevity
Fortunately, Lyocell doesn't require complicated care—just thoughtful care.
Washing Lyocell
Most Lyocell garments can be machine washed.
For the best results:
- Wash at 30°C (86°F) or lower.
- Choose a gentle or delicate cycle.
- Wash similar colours together.
- Turn garments inside out before washing.
- Use a mild liquid detergent.
Avoid:
- bleach
- harsh stain removers
- heavy-duty cycles
These can unnecessarily stress the fibers and shorten the garment's lifespan.
Should You Use Fabric Softener?
Generally, no.
Lyocell is naturally soft and smooth.
Fabric softeners can leave a coating on the fibers, reducing their natural moisture-management properties over time.
In most cases, they're simply unnecessary.
Drying
Air drying is the preferred method.
Hang the garment or lay it flat to dry in the shade.
Avoid:
- tumble drying
- direct, prolonged sunlight
- excessive heat
High temperatures may increase wrinkling or contribute to slight shrinkage over time.
Ironing
If needed, iron on a low temperature while the fabric is still slightly damp or use a steam iron.
Many wrinkles naturally relax after hanging the garment.
A handheld steamer is often the gentlest option.
How to Store Lyocell
Proper storage helps garments keep their shape between wears.
We recommend:
- folding heavier garments
- hanging lightweight dresses, shirts and blouses on wide hangers
- avoiding overcrowded wardrobes
- storing garments in a dry, well-ventilated space
Refreshing Between Washes
Not every garment needs to be washed after every wear.
Often, simply:
- airing it out
- steaming away wrinkles
- spot cleaning small marks
is enough to keep it fresh while reducing unnecessary washing.
This helps extend the life of both the fabric and the garment.
Common Questions
Does Lyocell wrinkle?
Like all natural cellulose fibers, Lyocell can wrinkle.
However, it generally wrinkles less than traditional viscose while maintaining a beautifully fluid drape.
Does Lyocell shrink?
When washed according to the care instructions, shrinkage is minimal.
High washing or drying temperatures are the most common cause of unwanted shrinkage.
Does Lyocell pill?
Pure Lyocell fabrics are generally resistant to pilling.
Pilling is more likely to occur in blended fabrics or in areas exposed to repeated friction.
Is Lyocell biodegradable?
Lyocell fibers are biodegradable under suitable conditions.
The biodegradability of a finished garment, however, also depends on dyes, trims and any additional materials used in its construction.
Caring for Your Clothes Means Caring for the Fabric
Quality clothing isn't only about how it's made—it's also about how it's cared for.
With gentle washing, air drying and thoughtful storage, Lyocell garments can retain their softness, comfort and elegant appearance for many years.
Because the most sustainable garment is often the one you continue wearing.
Experience the feel of 100% TENCEL™ Lyocell.
Explore our collection crafted from one of the softest and most comfortable natural fibers available today.
→ Shop the Collection