Tencel or Viscose: Which One Should You Choose?
In the ever-evolving world of fashion and textiles, sustainability and performance are two key factors that drive fabric selection. As a fashion brand, making the right choice between Tencel/Lyoncel and viscose can greatly impact the quality, sustainability, and market appeal of your products, even though both are derived from plants. Now, let’s dive into the differences between these two popular fibers, exploring their strengths and weaknesses to help you make an informed decision for your collections.
What is Tencel/Lyoncel?
Lyoncel is a type of lyocell fiber, that is made from wood pulp, typically sourced from sustainable forests. The process of creating Lyoncel involves dissolving the wood pulp in a non-toxic solvent, which is then spun into fibers. This production method is known for being eco-friendly because it recycles water and solvents, reducing environmental impact (98.9% of water is recyclable and can be reused).
Key Features of Tencel/Lyoncel:
Eco-Friendly Production: The closed-loop process minimizes waste and conserves resources, making Tencel one of the most sustainable fibers on the market.
Biodegradability: Tencel fibers are fully biodegradable, ensuring minimal long-term environmental impact.
Softness and Breathability: Tencel is renowned for its silky softness and excellent moisture management, making it ideal for clothing that’s worn close to the skin.
Strength and Durability: Despite its soft feel, Tencel is incredibly strong, providing lasting durability.
What is viscose?
Viscose, often referred to as rayon, is another fiber derived from wood pulp. However, the production process of viscose is more chemically intensive than that of Tencel. The fiber is created by dissolving cellulose in a chemical solution, which is then spun into fibers. While viscose is more affordable and widely used, it has faced criticism for its environmental impact, particularly due to the chemicals used in its production.
Key Features of Viscose:
Affordability: Viscose is generally less expensive to produce, making it a cost-effective option for brands looking to create budget-friendly products.
Soft and Drapey: Viscose is known for its softness and drapability, making it a popular choice for garments like dresses, blouses, and linings.
Versatility: Viscose can mimic the feel of natural fibers like silk, cotton, and wool, offering versatility in fabric design.
Environmental Concerns: The production of viscose can involve harmful chemicals and significant water usage, leading to concerns about its environmental sustainability.
Comparing the Two: Which One to Choose?
When deciding between Tencel/Lyoncel and viscose, there are several factors to consider, including sustainability, fabric performance, cost, and brand values.
1. Sustainability: If sustainability is a priority for your brand, Tencel/Lyoncel is the clear winner. Its eco-friendly production process and biodegradability align with the growing consumer demand for sustainable fashion. On the other hand, viscose, while also derived from renewable resources, has a more significant environmental impact due to its chemical-intensive production process.
2. Fabric Performance: Both Tencel and viscose offer excellent softness and drape. However, Tencel’s superior moisture management and strength give it an edge in terms of overall fabric performance. Tencel is also less prone to wrinkling and shrinkage compared to viscose.
3. Cost: Viscose is typically more affordable than Tencel, making it a better choice for brands that create budget-friendly products. However, the long-term benefits of Tencel, including its durability and reduced environmental impact, may justify the higher initial cost for premium or eco-conscious brands.
4. Brand Values: Your fabric choice should reflect your brand’s values. If your brand emphasizes sustainability and high-quality materials, Tencel/Lyoncel aligns better with those principles. If affordability and versatility are your primary goals, viscose may be a suitable choice, though it’s important to consider the potential environmental impact.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Ultimately, the decision between Tencel/Lyoncel and viscose comes down to your brand’s priorities. Tencel/Lyoncel offers sustainability, superior performance, and durability, making it ideal for brands committed to eco-friendly fashion. With its affordability and versatility, Viscose remains a popular choice for budget-conscious collections.
As you develop your fashion line, carefully consider these factors to make a choice that aligns with your brand’s mission and appeals to your target market. By choosing the right fabric, you enhance the quality and appeal of your products and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.
If you’re looking for new sustainable fabric choices for your brand, contact us for our tailor-made sourcing services.
