How to care for TENCEL™ Lyocell to preserve its softness

TENCEL™ Lyocell is a material that stands out for its fluid feel, comfort and naturally “clean” sensation on the skin.
A few simple adjustments are all it takes to preserve this feel, wash after wash.

TENCEL™ Lyocell is easy to care for, provided that gentle care is taken to protect its fluidity, breathability and natural drape.

Important: TENCEL™ is not a “fabric”

At Maison CÉTOILE, we are specifically talking about TENCEL™ Lyocell — and that's not a minor detail.

TENCEL™ is a fiber brand developed by Lenzing , and it exists in several variants (Lyocell, Modal, Filament).
Our bed linen is made from TENCEL™ Lyocell , a plant-based fiber that we sometimes call plant silk because of its naturally silky feel.

Naming the material correctly allows us to better understand its behavior… and to better maintain it.

The CÉTOILE method (in 1 minute)

1) Gentle wash

Ideal wash at 30°C
Delicate program
Gentle laundry detergent (no need to overdose)
Gentle spin cycle : the softness comes from there too

An overly aggressive cycle is the primary cause of losing control.

2) Tumble dryer: yes, but on a gentle cycle

On our labels: tumble dryer allowed at low temperature (1 dot) .

Gentle program
Remove the laundry as soon as the cycle is finished.

Excessive heat is often the cause:

of a less fluid fall
of a slight narrowing
of a drier feel

3) Finishing touches (if needed)

In most cases, light steam or gentle ironing is sufficient.
TENCEL™ Lyocell naturally returns to its original shape.

The right approach for bulky bed linen

Turn duvet covers and pillowcases inside out before washing → reduces visible friction
Close zippers and buttons → prevents abrasion
Do not overload the drum → the fabric needs water and space to remain supple

These simple actions significantly extend the quality of the fabric.

“My TENCEL™ comes out a little stiffer”: is this normal?

Yes.
After washing, TENCEL™ Lyocell may feel slightly “drier” to the touch.

This is a common reaction:
The hand becomes fluid again as soon as the fabric is completely dry , put back in place... and with use.

Absolutely avoid these (3 classic mistakes)

High heat (hot wash or excessively hot drying)
Excessive friction (cycle too "sporty" or drum overloaded)
Harsh products (bleach, strong stain removers)

These three points are the main causes of loss of softness.

In summary

Gentle wash at 30°C , light spin
Tumble dry on low heat (1 dot) , remove as soon as it's finished
Light steam if necessary

A material conceived in duo

At Maison CÉTOILE, natural silk and TENCEL™ Lyocell form a duo designed for night and everyday comfort, with the same requirement for softness, durability and respect for the material.

To better understand the differences between silk, cotton and TENCEL™ depending on your sleep, we have also dedicated a comparative guide to materials for a good night's sleep.

To go further

Silk, cotton or TENCEL™ Lyocell: which material should you choose for a good night's sleep?
Detailed comparison of sleep materials: thermoregulation, softness on the skin and nighttime comfort.
Why sleeping in silk improves sleep quality
The benefits of silk on the skin, body temperature and comfort during the night.
Can you machine wash silk pyjamas?
Simple method and essential settings for washing silk without damaging it.

How to wash TENCEL™ Lyocell (plant-based silk) bed linen — the easy method