Does TENCEL Shrink?

Why Does TENCEL™ Shrink? 

Now that you know that TENCEL™ can shrink, let's discuss why it happens in the first place. 

TENCEL™ is made from natural wood pulp (often eucalyptus), which is then dissolved into a solution and processed into fibers. Compared to cotton and wool, TENCEL™ fibers are smooth, giving the fabric its subtle sheen. 

When you wash TENCEL™, the fibers relax and contract, which is 100% normal. As a matter of fact, when you wash TENCEL™ for the first time, you can expect some slight shrinkage (usually around 2% to 3%), but nothing too drastic, of course. 

This is known as relaxation shrinkage. During manufacturing, the fibers are held under tension. Washing allows them to relax and return closer to their natural state, which causes the fabric to shrink slightly.

So, when do washing and drying become a potential issue? The problem arises when TENCEL™ is exposed to excessive heat, causing the fibers to contract more than they normally would. And with vigorous agitation, the constant movement can put additional stress on the fibers, increasing the risk of not only shrinkage but also damage. 

Fun Fact: TENCEL™ is processed through a closed-loop system, which is more sustainable and eco-friendly because it recovers and reuses most of the solvents and water used.

Does Olive + Crate TENCEL™ Bedding Shrink? 

Earlier we mentioned that TENCEL™ can experience some shrinkage when it’s washed for the first time. But that's not something you have to worry about with Olive + Crate TENCEL™ Bedding. 

Our TENCEL™ sheet set, duvet cover, and pillowcases are pre-washed to account for that initial dimensional change. What does this mean for you? What you see when you unbox it is the size you can expect to be after washing, too. Of course, proper washing and care are still important to help your bedding maintain its softness, shape, and quality over time. 

How to Prevent TENCEL™ from Shrinking? 

Now that you know why TENCEL™ can shrink, what can you do to prevent it from happening? Well, the good thing about TENCEL™ is that all you have to do is switch to gentler washing and drying methods: 

Pro Tip: Before washing, check the care label on your TENCEL™ item. Different fabrics and blends can have different care requirements, so the instructions on the label should always be your first guide.

• Water temperature: Skip hot water when washing TENCEL™. Wash TENCEL™ in cold or lukewarm water around 30°C or below. 
• Washing setting: Never set your washer to the highest spin speed. Always pick a gentle or delicate cycle because it reduces agitation and stress on the fibers. Make sure to separate TENCEL items from heavy fabrics like towels or jeans, too. You might also consider using a laundry bag to reduce friction during the wash.
• Drying: Whenever possible, make sure to air-dry TENCEL™. Depending on the weight and room temperature, it can take 2 to 6 hours for TENCEL™ to dry. If you intend to use a dryer, choose low heat or a delicate drying setting. Before it completely dries (slightly damp), take it out of the dryer. Keep in mind that TENCEL™ dries faster than cotton.    
• Detergent: Skip harsh detergents because these can also weaken the fibers. Ideally, you should use mild liquid detergent with a low-sudsing formula. 

Tip: Follow these other TENCEL™ care tips to ensure you don’t damage your TENCEL™ sheets.