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Jackson Lindeke
By Jackson Lindeke
Methodology
Up-to-Date

If you’re on the hunt for a new set of sheets, chances are you’ve come across Tencel. Just what is this, and how does it compare to traditional materials like cotton or linen?

Tencel has been steadily gaining a foothold in the textile market over the last few years. Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp and processed using eco-friendly methods, it excels at wicking moisture to help maintain a neutral temperature as you sleep. Its soft, sleek feel lends itself well to bed sheets.

Tencel definitely qualifies as a luxury bedding product, but many shoppers feel it’s worth the price. Are Tencel sheets right for you? We’ll cover everything you need to know to help you make a decision, including a list of the best Tencel sheets according to our research and testing.

In-Depth Reviews

  • Who it’s best for

    1. People who don't need a flat sheet with their bedding set

    2. Those with mattresses up to 15 inches thick

    3. Hot sleepers

  • Highlights

    1. Pure Tencel composition with a sateen weave gives the material a luxuriously silky hand-feel

    2. Seven color options

    3. All items are derived from sustainably grown sources

Price

$165

Material

100% Tencel lyocell

Weave

Sateen

Tencel is known for being exceptionally soft compared to other materials, but each component of the Sijo AiryWeight Eucalyptus Sheet Set is smooth and silky even compared to other Tencel-derived bedding items. This can be attributed to the sateen weave, which not only softens the fabric but also creates an elegant luster.

The set is ideal for anyone who prefers bedding that drapes closely to the body, but the natural breathability and moisture-wicking properties of Tencel also makes these sheets a good option for hot sleepers and those who live in humid climates.

All sets include a fitted sheet and one to two pillowcases, depending on the selected size. You can choose to include a flat sheet, or forgo this component if you don’t need one and lower the set’s overall cost. The fitted sheet’s pocket depth makes it compatible with any mattress up to 15 inches thick. All items in the set are fully machine-washable for quick, convenient care. The collection is available in seven solid colors.

Sijo uses sustainably grown eucalyptus and other wood sources to create the Tencel material, so the set should appeal to eco-conscious individuals. A reasonable sticker price also makes this collection accessible to shoppers on a budget, and shipping is free for all orders of $65 or more. Your purchase comes with a 30-night trial period that includes free returns, provided the sheets and pillowcases are in donatable condition.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. People who reside in exceptionally hot or humid climates

    2. Those who own mattresses between 11 and 15 inches thick

    3. Sleepers who prefer bedding that drapes closely to the body

  • Highlights

    1. Ultra-breathable Tencel sleeps cool and wicks away moisture

    2. Sateen weave enhances the fabric’s elegant natural luster

    3. Available in three colors and seven sizes

Price

$199

Material

100% Tencel

Weave

Sateen

In recent years, mainstream mattresses have become thicker, and high-profile models are more commonly sold in today’s market. If you own a tall mattress, you’ll need a deep-pocket fitted sheet — otherwise you’ll constantly deal with elastic corners slipping off during the night. True to its name, the Brooklyn Bedding Deep Pocket Tencel Sheets include a fitted sheet with a pocket depth of 11 to 15 inches. This range accommodates most mattresses sold today, but you should still measure your mattress before purchasing this set to ensure complete compatibility.

Each item is composed of Tencel derived from sustainably grown eucalyptus. The fabric has a luxuriously soft and smooth hand-feel, so the sheets will drape closely to your body. A sateen weave enhances the silkiness and also brings out the Tencel’s natural sheen. While drapey bedding can trap heat, the fabric is highly breathable and has moisture-wicking properties. Our tests show the sheets provide excellent temperature control, making them a good option if you reside in a relatively warm or humid location.

You can choose from three neutral colors for your set. The sheets are also available in seven sizes, including a split king with two twin XL fitted sheets for couples who use adjustable beds. Caring for your sheets and pillowcases is a hassle-free process. Wash in cool or warm water, then tumble dry on low heat. Removing your bedding as soon as the drying cycle is complete helps ensure minimal wrinkling.

The Deep Pocket Tencel Sheets are competitively priced and Brooklyn Bedding offers complimentary ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S. You may test out the sheets for up to 30 nights before deciding whether to return them for a refund or keep them. If you opt for the latter, you’ll also receive a 1-year warranty against material defects.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Hot sleepers and those who sweat in bed

    2. Those who own mattresses up to 12 inches thick

    3. People who prefer sheets that don't contain essential oils or synthetic dyes

  • Highlights

    1. Breathable fabric and light thread count make the set suitable for hot or humid weather

    2. Colored exclusively with natural dyes

    3. Nine color and pattern options

Price

$199

Material

Eucalyptus Fiber

Weave

Percale

Although Tencel is known for its exceptional cooling, the Buffy Eucalyptus Sheets offer excellent temperature regulation even compared to other bedding sets made from the same material. This can be attributed to the crisp percale weave, which usually offers better breathability than sateen, and a light thread count of 300. The fabric also has moisture-wicking qualities to keep you comfortable and sweat-free when humidity levels rise.

The set is available in six solid color palettes and three stripe patterns, all of which are dyed using natural agents such as gardenia and pomegranate. Additionally, the fabric does not contain any essential oils and is considered safe for any sleeper – including pets – to use. Each component can be laundered in any household machine for easy cleaning. Simply wash in cold water, tumble-dry on a low setting, and avoid placing the items in direct sunlight to prevent the colors from fading.

The fitted sheet’s pocket depth is 12 inches, so the set will be compatible with low- and medium-profile mattresses but those who own a high-profile model may need to look elsewhere. Buffy provides free ground shipping to all 50 states. After placing your order, your credit card won’t be billed until you’ve had the chance to test out the sheets for up to 7 nights, and returns are accepted within 30 days of the original purchase.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Hot sleepers

    2. People who own high-profile mattresses

    3. Eco-conscious consumers

  • Highlights

    1. Tencel fabric with a sateen weave is both breathable and silky-smooth

    2. Generous pocket depth makes the set compatible with most mattresses

    3. Produced using eco-friendly means and colored with organic dyes

Price

$219

Material

100% Tencel Lyocell

Weave

Sateen

If your mattress measures 14 inches or thicker, then a fitted sheet with standard pockets might not be deep enough. This shouldn’t be an issue with the Classic Sheet Set from Eucalypso, which features a fitted sheet with a pocket depth of up to 18 inches. This range covers the vast majority of mattresses made today, including luxury pillow-tops and other high-profile models that require specialty sheets.

Tencel fabrication with a sateen weave ensures each item in this collection is supremely soft. The sheets and pillowcases are also exceptionally breathable and the Tencel has moisture-wicking properties, so you should be able to sleep comfortably even on hot or humid nights, but a 600 thread count also provides adequate insulation when the temperatures dip.

Seven colors are available, all of which complement the sateen weave’s elegant luster. Organic dyes are used for each palette. You can also choose from six sizes, including a split king if you share an adjustable bed with your sleep partner. All components of the set are fully machine-washable. Wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, then line dry if possible – but in a pinch you can also tumble dry the items on low heat.

Eucalypso utilizes a closed-loop production process that incorporates recycled water and solvents, which helps the company lower their footprint. Ground delivery is free for customers in the contiguous U.S., and shipping rates are relatively low for those who reside in Alaska or Hawaii. Returns are permitted within 30 days of the purchase date. Unwashed sheets and pillowcases qualify for a full product refund, but you’ll need to pay a processing fee for laundered bedding that amounts to 50% of the set’s original sticker price.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. Sleepers with a high-profile mattress

    2. Vegan shoppers who prefer not to buy silk

    3. Shoppers who own a split king or split queen

  • Highlights

    1. Exceptionally soft feel

    2. 100% Tencel lyocell fabric

    3. Fits mattresses from 6 to 22 inches tall

Price

$199

Material

100% Tencel lyocell

Weave

Sateen

Shoppers who want supremely soft sheets should consider the Tencel Sheet Set from PlushBeds. These sheets feature 100% Tencel lyocell fabric that has a silky-smooth hand-feel. The sateen weave enhances the fabric and gives the set a sleek, luxe look.

Tencel is well-known for its temperature-regulating capabilities. Rather than trapping heat, the fabric works to wick moisture away from your body and keep you cool. Tencel also doesn’t require special laundering. PlushBeds has designed this set to stay soft and durable through regular washing. For best results, use your home machine’s gentle cycle then tumble dry and remove promptly to avoid wrinkling.

This set from PlushBeds is compatible with a wide range of mattress heights. The fitted sheet has stretchy elastic that fits mattresses 6 to 22 inches high. The flat sheet is oversized to accommodate taller sleepers if needed. You can purchase this set in six different colorways and nine sizes including split queen, split king, and split California king.

PlushBeds offers free shipping to shoppers living in the contiguous U.S. Though returns are limited to unused sheets, the Tencel Sheet Set is backed with a 5-year warranty.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. People with sensitive skin

    2. Anyone who owns a mattress up to 15 inches thick

    3. Sleepers prone to night sweats

  • Highlights

    1. Pure Tencel bedding offers exceptional breathability and moisture control

    2. Sateen weave gives each item a buttery-soft hand-feel

    3. Available in 5 colors

Price

$149

Material

Tencel lyocell

Weave

Sateen

Although Tencel bedding is known for its softness, some sets use techniques to achieve a silkier and smoother feel than others. The Nest Bedding Tencel Sheet Set is a prime example. Each sheet and pillowcase in this collection is produced from pure Tencel fabric and rendered in a sateen weave, creating a buttery hand-feel and close body drape. Our testers remarked on the fabric’s gentle glide, and recommend this set to anyone with sensitive skin — especially if they’ve found other bedding materials too coarse or abrasive.

Our tests also show this set offers exceptional temperature control. Each item feels cool to the touch, and Tencel’s moisture-wicking properties make these sheets a great choice for people who frequently sweat in their sleep. Since the fabric holds up well over time and resists early pilling, we’ve also awarded favorable durability ratings to the set. Follow the care instructions carefully to protect your bedding from premature wear and tear.

You can choose from six sizes corresponding to standard mattress dimensions. Twin and twin XL sizes come with a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and a single pillowcase. Larger sizes build on these elements, adding a second pillowcase for queen and full sets, and a total of four cases for king and California king sets. The fitted sheet has a pocket depth of 15 inches, so you should measure your current mattress to ensure compatibility.

Five colors are available ranging from white to more vibrant options such as peach and sage. Nest Bedding offers free ground shipping throughout the contiguous U.S., and each order is backed by a 30-night sleep trial with full refunds on all returns during this time frame.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. People who own thick mattresses

    2. Hot sleepers

    3. Those who prioritize softness in sheets

  • Highlights

    1. Fitted sheets have 20-inch pocket depth

    2. Moisture-wicking fabric

    3. Wide array of color options

Price

$150

Material

Lyocell from Eucalyptus

Weave

Sateen

The Eucalyptus Lyocell Sheets from Sheets & Giggles are designed with comfort in mind. The bedding is made with a fabric that not only feels soft against the skin but also helps your body stay cool.

The sheets are constructed with 100% Eucalyptus Lyocell fabric, which is designed to wick moisture away from the body while promoting breathability throughout the night. The fabric is soft and meant to grow softer each time the sheets are washed. Sleepers can machine wash the sheets in cold water on a delicate cycle, then machine dry on a low setting.

The sheets are available in seven sizes and shoppers may pick between 11 colors, including several striped options. Most sets include a fitted sheet, flat sheet, and two pillowcases, though the twin and twin XL sets come with just one pillowcase. The fitted sheets have a generous pocket depth of 20 inches, which means they can accommodate very thick mattresses or mattresses with pillow-tops.

Sheets & Giggles offers free shipping to the contiguous U.S. for purchases over $50. Customers may return the sheets within 90 days of the purchase date.

  • Who it’s best for

    1. People with sensitive skin

    2. Anyone with a mattress up to 17.5 inches thick

    3. Those who tend to sleep hot

  • Highlights

    1. Each sheet and pillowcase has a luxuriously smooth feel

    2. Generous pocket depth accommodates the vast majority of mattresses sold today

    3. Eight colors available

Price

$150

Material

100% Tencel lyocell

Weave

Sateen

If you’re looking for sheets with color options that extend beyond the usual neutrals, Olive + Crate’s Natural Eucalyptus Sheet Set might be an appealing option. The collection is available in eight colors, all of which enhance the Tencel fabric’s gorgeous luster. In addition to white and gray, you can choose from more vibrant selections such as basalt blue, rose blush, and spring sage.

Each sheet and pillowcase is constructed from pure Tencel, giving these items a silky-smooth hand-feel. Our testers found that these sheets drape quite closely, but the material glides gently and shouldn’t cause irritation if you have acne, eczema, and other conditions that cause sensitive skin. Temperature control was another highlight during our tests. The fabric is breathable, and its moisture-wicking properties should help you stay dry during hot or humid times of the year.

You can choose from five sizes. Twin sets include a flat sheet, fitted sheet, and a single pillowcase, while larger sizes feature all of these components as well as a second pillowcase. The flat sheet’s pocket depth of 17.5 inches means you can use it with most mattresses made today, including luxury pillow-tops and other high-profile models that are too tall for standard-pocket sheets. To clean your bedding, machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle, then tumble dry on low heat or hang to dry.

The Natural Eucalyptus Sheet Set is competitively priced. Standard shipping is free for all U.S. orders, and you can pay an extra fee for expedited delivery. Your purchase comes with a 30-night trial that begins on the purchase date, and return shipping is also free of charge.

Best Tencel Sheets Video

For a closer look at some of our top tencel sheet picks, check out our video below. We’ll show you firsthand how each sheet looks, and we’ll handle each sheet to give you a sense of how the fabric feels.

What is Tencel?

Tencel is a trademarked brand name that belongs to the Austrian company Lenzing. It refers to several fabrics that are made from wood pulp, most commonly eucalyptus. The wood pulp is dissolved in solvent and regenerated into a semi-synthetic cellulosic fiber. Currently, Tencel comes in two types, lyocell or modal. While these may also be made by other manufacturers, Lenzing is by far the main producer.

The wood pulp used to make Tencel fabric is harvested from sustainably managed plantations and natural forests. Lenzing goes to great lengths to ensure environmentally friendly production every step of the way. This includes minimizing irrigation and pesticides, reusing the solvents from the manufacturing process, and adding recycled cotton scraps to fabrics made with its Refibra technology. Tencel fabrics are biodegradable under the right conditions.

Suitable for people with sensitive skin, Tencel fabrics have a smooth and slinky feel that many people compare to silk. The fibers are strong and durable, and get progressively softer over time. Tencel is also highly absorbent and quick to dry. Its natural moisture-wicking ability helps prevent bacteria growth and maintain a neutral temperature. Tencel has controllable fibrillation that can be modified to give it specific characteristics. This makes for a versatile material with many uses that range from sportswear to bed sheets.

How to Choose Tencel Sheets

As with most bed sheet materials, Tencel can take on different properties depending on how it’s manufactured. We’ll go over how Tencel is produced, the advantages and disadvantages, the different types of Tencel, and other considerations to help you narrow down your search.

What to Consider When Buying Tencel Sheets

Many customers agree that it’s worth spending a little more for sheets that promise extra comfort and durability. However, companies sometimes take advantage of this and sell their bed sheets at luxury prices even if they’re not made with the corresponding quality.

Instead of assuming in good faith that a high price-tag always signals a better product, it’s worthwhile taking some time to understand the basics. In the case of Tencel sheets, arming yourself with information about weave, thread count, and other important factors can guide you to make a smarter choice when buying.

Weave
Among sheets made of the same fabric, different weaves confer a different feel. The most common weave for Tencel sheets is sateen, which produces delicate sheets with a slight sheen. You may also see twill Tencel sheets, known for their elegant drape, or percale Tencel sheets, with the standard one-up, one-over weave that’s known for being crisp and breathable.

Feel
Sheet material, weave, and other characteristics give each sheet set a distinct feel. Tencel sheets are generally silky-smooth and cooling, but when blended with other materials, they can take on extra characteristics such as added crispness or softness.

Fit
Not every sheet set comes in all sizes, so it’s important to double-check this before falling in love with a specific brand. Additionally, if you have an extra-thick mattress, it’s a good idea to check the pocket depth on the fitted sheet. Since the material can be a little slippery, some Tencel bed sheet manufacturers add an extra-thick elastic band to the bottom of the fitted sheet to keep it from sliding off the mattress.

Price
Bed sheets come in a large range of prices, from cheap and cheerful sets to high-end luxury designs. Because they are made from natural materials and require a somewhat complex manufacturing process, Tencel sheets tend to be among the more expensive types. Most people buy at least two sets of bed sheets for laundry days, which is something to take into account when setting a budget.

Thread Count
Thread count is one way to get an initial idea of the feel and durability of your bed sheets. As the story goes, the higher the thread count, the better the quality. However, this isn’t always strictly true, as many companies use double-ply and triple-ply weaves to artificially increase the thread count without improving the quality of the sheets. Good-quality Tencel sheets usually have a thread count of about 300.

Design, Color, and Pattern
Many people would argue there’s no point splashing out for expensive bed sheets if they don’t match your room. The options for Tencel sheets are generally limited to solid natural colors, but luckily these tend to pair well with most bedroom color schemes.

Breathability
Breathable sheets are especially important for people living in warm climates or sleepers who easily overheat at night. Tencel is breathable and moisture-wicking to boot, making it a strong choice for hot sleepers. To maximize these benefits, choose sheets with a percale weave, which does a better job at temperature regulation.

Durability
The durability of a sheet set depends largely on its material, fiber length, and weave. Compared with other cellulose fibers, Tencel is generally quite strong and resistant to tearing. It doesn’t pill like cotton, and it is less likely to shrink, especially after the first wash. For maximum durability, choose a weave like percale that’s less vulnerable to snagging.

Ease of Care
Buying bed sheets that need to be hand-washed or dry cleaned is a major nuisance considering most people wash their sheets every week or two. Tencel sheets do require a bit of delicacy when cleaning. However, if properly treated, they are easy to care for. Pure Tencel sheets can usually be machine-washed and -dried, avoiding hot temperatures and harsh agents like bleach or fabric softener.

What Types of Tencel Sheets are Available?

There are two types of Tencel fabric, lyocell and modal. Each has particular features that sets it apart.

Tencel Lyocell: Tencel lyocell is the latest-generation Tencel fabric. It’s primarily made of eucalyptus, a fast-growing plant that requires less pesticides and irrigation than cotton. In addition to replacing the corrosive solvent with a non-toxic organic compound, lyocell is also processed using a closed-loop system that recycles the water and recovers 99 percent of the solvent to be used again. It’s the latest generation of rayon, and the most commonly used in bed sheets due to its superior moisture-wicking.

Tencel Modal: Modal was created as an answer to rayon. It has a much higher wet tensile strength, which makes it possible to develop finer fabrics without them tearing as compared with other man-made fabrics. Primarily made from beech wood, Tencel modal is used in many applications that require a sleeker, more lightweight feel, such as lingerie.

Tencel Blends: Tencel is often added to fabric blends to increase softness and durability. In bed sheets, Tencel is most commonly blended with cotton, to give the sheets a slightly crisp feel that retains the breathability of the Tencel.

What are the Pros and Cons of Tencel Sheets?

Tencel is popular with environmentally conscious shoppers who value its soft, slinky feel and excellent temperature control. Do the benefits justify the extra cost? Here’s a quick summary of pros and cons.

ProsCons
  • Temperature regulation: Tencel is a breathable fabric that wicks moisture away from the skin to keep a cool, dry sleeping environment.
  • Soft: Tencel fibers are smooth by nature and cause minimal irritation to people with sensitive skin.
  • Strong: Tencel is stronger than most man-made fabrics, and many Tencel sheets are even stronger than cotton. Tencel sheets tend to hold their color well and resist shrinking.
  • Easy care: Tencel can’t tolerate high temperatures, but it is otherwise easy to care for. It can be machine-washed and won’t wrinkle if properly treated.
  • Eco-friendly: Tencel is produced using sustainable methods that minimize the impact on the environment. The finished product is low in chemicals and some Tencel fabrics can be biodegradable, depending on the dyes that are used.
  • Drapability: Tencel is lightweight and has an elegant drape that’s well suited to bed sheets.
  • Versatile: Beyond its standard sleek feel, Tencel can be mercerized for added strength and shine, or fibrillated to create a soft peach-skin effect.
  • Expensive: While perhaps not as expensive as luxury or Egyptian cotton sheets, Tencel sheets typically come with a higher price-tag than regular cotton or polyester sheets.
  • Harsh dyes: Many Tencel products are made with harsh dyes that stay colorfast over time, but impede their ability to biodegrade.
  • Unique feel: Tencel is great for people who want cool and silky sheets, but those who prefer crisp percale or warm flannel should look elsewhere.
  • Easy to ruin: Tencel is touted as easy to care for and that’s true, but high temperatures are virtually guaranteed to ruin these sheets so they do require careful attention when laundering.

Who is Best Suited to Tencel Sheets?

Tencel’s eco-friendly credentials are one of the main draws for many shoppers. Due to its breathable, lightweight feel and above-average moisture-wicking capabilities, Tencel is also preferred by hot sleepers and those who live in warm climates. Tencel sheets have a flowy drape and a lustrous appearance that make it an elegant choice. Sleepers with sensitive skin appreciate the fabric’s natural softness and low abrasivity.

The main downside to Tencel is the higher price-point, which may deter shoppers who have a limited budget. While it can be altered to give it different characteristics, Tencel doesn’t usually achieve the sharp, crisp feel of cotton percale, the cozy warmth of flannel, or the comfortable rumpled feel of linen. If you’re not a fan of silky smooth bedsheets, Tencel may not be for you.

What is the Ideal Thread Count for Tencel Sheets?

The thread count of a given fabric equals the sum of threads per square inch, both vertical and horizontal. It’s a typical marker of cotton sheets, where a high thread count can indicate longer, thinner fibers that yield a softer, breathable, and more durable cloth. Manufacturers place high importance on thread count in their advertising, but it’s important to know that thread count can be manipulated. It should always be analyzed in the context of material type, fiber length, and other markers.

Tencel sheets can also be measured by thread count, but it’s not such an accurate gauge of quality for this material. The fibers used to make Tencel are naturally much smoother than cotton, so it’s possible to produce a soft and breathable fabric even with a lower thread count. Most Tencel sheets have a thread count ranging between 270 and 300, although it’s not uncommon for a manufacturer to omit this information as it’s not as relevant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the typical price range for Tencel sheets?

Tencel sheets cost between $100 and $200 on average. The price can vary depending on multiple factors including what kind of Tencel is used and whether it’s blended with other materials, such as cotton. Tencel’s price-point is higher than most polyester sheets and closer to that of good-quality cotton or linen sheets.

How long do Tencel sheets last?

Tencel is generally more durable than other synthetic fabrics, and a good set of Tencel sheets can last for years if properly cared for. As it’s a relatively new material compared to cotton, it remains to be seen if Tencel sheets boast the same long lifespan of high-quality cotton.

How do I wash and care for Tencel sheets?

Most Tencel sheets can be machine-washed in cold water on the gentle cycle. Line-drying is best, although some can be tumble-dried on low heat. Removing the sheets from the dryer as soon as they’re dry and placing them immediately on the bed can help reduce wrinkles. Avoid fabric softeners, bleach, and strong detergent, which can harm the fibers. Most Tencel sheets can be ironed on low heat if absolutely necessary, but as a general rule, keep Tencel away from high temperatures as they can ruin the fibers. Always check care instructions before washing for the first time, especially for Tencel blends.

How do Tencel sheets compare to cotton sheets?

Tencel has a sleeker feel than cotton. Cotton sheets differ significantly in feel according to the weave. For example, cotton flannel has a warm and cozy feel, while cotton percale has a characteristically crisp, cool feel. Both materials are breathable, but as Tencel does a better job of wicking moisture, it’s usually preferred by hot sleepers.

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