Are TENCEL Sheets Good?

Fri Jun 20 2025

Not all sheets are created equal. Some are stiff. Some are scratchy. And some feel like a dream from the second you crawl into bed. That’s where TENCEL™ sheets come in. But are TENCEL bed sheets worth the hype, or is it just a buzzword with a fancy name? Let’s break it down.

What Are TENCEL Sheets Made Of?

TENCEL refers to a type of fiber made from sustainably sourced wood pulp (usually eucalyptus). The result is a soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking fabric that’s been making waves in the bedding world.

At Mattress Direct, we carry a curated selection of TENCEL sheet sets designed for people who want more out of their sleep. If you’re tired of waking up sweaty, tangled in stiff sheets, or tossing and turning to get comfy, TENCEL might just be your new best friend.

Benefits of TENCEL Sheets: Why They're So Popular

TENCEL's popularity is based on real benefits. Let’s take a look at what the hype is all about:

Ultra-Soft and Silky Feel

TENCEL has this naturally smooth finish that gives the sheets a silky, luxe feel—without the slipperiness of actual silk. They’re soft straight out of the package, and they only get better with washing.

Breathable and Cool for Hot Sleepers

If you sleep hot, you know the struggle. TENCEL sheets are breathable and moisture-wicking, which means they pull heat and humidity away from your body. No more sweaty wake-ups. Just cool, dry comfort all night.

Eco-Friendly and Sustainable Bedding

More people are looking for eco-friendly bedding, and TENCEL fits the bill. The manufacturing process uses less water and fewer chemicals than cotton, and the wood pulp is harvested from responsibly managed forests. Good sleep, good conscience.

Wrinkle-Resistant and Low Maintenance

No sheet is completely wrinkle-proof, but TENCEL is better than most. It lies smooth and crisp with minimal effort. If you hate ironing but love a tidy bed, this is a win.

Are There Any Downsides to TENCEL Sheets?

Sure, no sheet is perfect. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

They can be a little more delicate. You’ll want to avoid high heat and harsh detergents.
They’re usually more expensive than basic cotton sheets. But in our opinion? Worth every penny if you value comfort.
They might not have the "crisp" feel of percale cotton. If you like that hotel-sheet crispness, these may feel too smooth.

TENCEL vs Cotton, Percale, and Bamboo: What's the Difference?

Shopping for sheets can be overwhelming, especially when you’re choosing between materials like TENCEL, percale cotton, bamboo, or traditional cotton. Here's how they stack up:

TENCEL vs Cotton: Cotton is the classic go-to for most people. It comes in a variety of weaves and finishes, from crisp percale to buttery sateen. TENCEL is smoother, more moisture-wicking, and often more eco-friendly than standard cotton. If you prefer a cooler, silkier feel, go for TENCEL.
TENCEL vs Percale: Percale sheets are made from cotton and have a crisp, cool hotel-like feel. TENCEL is softer and more breathable. If you love the feeling of freshly ironed sheets, go with percale. If you want something smoother and more temperature-regulating, choose TENCEL.
TENCEL vs Bamboo: Both are eco-friendly and moisture-wicking, but TENCEL tends to feel a bit more luxurious and holds up better over time. Bamboo can be a bit softer at first, but may not be as durable.

Bottom line: If you want softness, sustainability, and cooling comfort all in one, TENCEL gives you a solid mix of all three.

How to Take Care of TENCEL Sheets

Treat these sheets right and they’ll last you years.

Wash on cold or warm, gentle cycle
Use a mild, eco-friendly detergent
Tumble dry low or air dry
Avoid bleach or fabric softeners (they can damage the fibers)

TENCEL does get softer with every wash, so don’t stress if they feel almost too smooth at first. Give it time.

Top TENCEL Sheets at Mattress Direct

Not all TENCEL sheets are created equal, which is why we’ve handpicked a few of our top favorites available at Mattress Direct:

➤ PureCare Refreshing TENCEL™ Lyocell Sheets

Silky-smooth TENCEL™ Lyocell in a sateen weave for cool, breathable comfort
Naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating for hot sleepers
Precision-Fit® corners and 1" elastic cuff ensure a secure, streamlined fit
Available in White, Light Blue, and Dove Grey

Good for: Warm sleepers, minimalists, and anyone who loves the refreshing, cool-to-the-touch feel of luxury sheets

➤ PureCare Soft Touch TENCEL™ Modal Sheets

Soft and smooth blend of TENCEL™ Modal and long-staple cotton for a luxurious feel
Lightweight, breathable, and increasingly softer with every wash
Precision-Fit® corners and 1" elastic cuff for a tailored, stay-put fit
Available in Midnight, Dove Grey, Moss, Clay, and Light Blue

Good for: Eco-conscious shoppers, people with sensitive skin, and anyone who wants sheets that feel smooth and fresh every night.

Explore TENCEL Bedding at Mattress Direct

TENCEL is a great place to start if you’re ready to elevate your sleep. And at Mattress Direct, we make it easy to find the perfect sheet set for your bed and sleep style.

Ready to sleep cooler? Mattress Direct makes it simple to find the best bedding for your needs. Contact us or visit your local Mattress Direct showroom today. We’re here to help you discover a wide range of top-rated mattresses, pillows, and adjustable bases.

FAQs About TENCEL Sheets

Can TENCEL sheets go in the dryer?

Yes, but use a low heat setting to protect the fibers.

Do TENCEL sheets shrink?

Not much, especially if you wash them in cold water and dry on low heat.

Do TENCEL sheets wrinkle?

A little, but much less than cotton. They smooth out nicely on the bed without much effort.

Can I use vinegar on TENCEL sheets?

Yes, distilled white vinegar in the rinse cycle can help remove residue and keep the fabric fresh.

What is a good thread count for TENCEL sheets?

TENCEL doesn’t need high thread counts to feel soft. Look for 300–400 for a balance of comfort and durability.