Tencel™ is the trademark brand name for lyocell fibre produced by the Austrian company Lenzing AG. The brand has become so well-known that "Tencel" is often used as a generic term for lyocell.
Tencel vs Lyocell
- Lyocell: The fibre type (generic)
- Tencel: Lenzing's branded lyocell (specific)
All Tencel is lyocell, but not all lyocell is Tencel. Similar to how Kleenex is a brand of tissue.
Why Tencel Dominates
Lenzing pioneered commercial lyocell production and invested heavily in the Tencel brand. Their production standards and sustainability certifications made Tencel the benchmark for quality lyocell.
Tencel Varieties
Lenzing produces:
- Tencel Lyocell: Standard lyocell fibre
- Tencel Modal: Their modal product line
Both fall under the Tencel umbrella.
In Product Labels
Products may say:
- "Tencel™" - Specifically Lenzing's fibre
- "Lyocell" - Generic term
- "Tencel lyocell" - Redundant but common
The Tencel trademark indicates Lenzing's certified production standards.