Lyocell vs Rayon
Professional Material Comparison
Lyocell
Lyocell (TENCEL™) - Eucalyptus-Based Fiber
Eco-friendly semi-synthetic fabric derived from wood pulp, renowned for exceptional moisture-wicking, silky softness, and sustainable production
Average Price
$55
Lifespan
10-15 years (as pillowcase fabric)
Rayon
Rayon (Viscose) - Regenerated Cellulose Fiber
Semi-synthetic regenerated cellulose fabric with silk-like texture and cotton-like feel, produced through chemical processing of wood pulp
Average Price
$35
Lifespan
3-6 years (as pillowcase fabric)
Quick Comparison
| Feature | Lyocell | Rayon |
|---|---|---|
| Support Level | N/A (Cover material only) | N/A (Cover material only) |
| Firmness | N/A (Fabric cover material) | N/A (Fabric cover material) |
| Temperature | Excellent cooling - superior moisture management | Cool - good breathability and moisture absorption |
| Durability | 10-15 years with proper care | 3-6 years with proper care |
| Hypoallergenic | ||
| Avg Price | $55 | $35 |
Physical Properties & Feel
Lyocell
Support Level:
N/A (Cover material only)
Firmness:
N/A (Fabric cover material)
Durability:
10-15 years with proper care
Bounce:
N/A (Fabric)
Contouring:
N/A (Cover material)
Rayon
Support Level:
N/A (Cover material only)
Firmness:
N/A (Fabric cover material)
Durability:
3-6 years with proper care
Bounce:
N/A (Fabric)
Contouring:
N/A (Cover material)
Temperature Regulation & Breathability
Lyocell
Temperature Rating:
Excellent cooling - superior moisture management
Breathability:
Exceptional breathability due to unique fiber structure and moisture management capabilities. The nanofibril channels within each lyocell fiber create microscopic pathways allowing continuous air circulation while simultaneously absorbing and releasing moisture vapor. Scientific studies confirm lyocell absorbs moisture 50% more efficiently than cotton while wicking it away from skin surface and dispersing into surrounding air. This superior moisture management prevents the buildup of heat and humidity against skin that occurs with cotton and synthetic fabrics. The smooth fiber surface further enhances air permeability compared to cotton's rougher, moisture-holding structure. Independent testing consistently ranks lyocell among the most breathable fabrics available, ideal for hot sleepers and humid climates. The fabric actively supports body's natural thermoregulation by maintaining dry microclimate against skin surface.
Rayon
Temperature Rating:
Cool - good breathability and moisture absorption
Breathability:
Good to excellent breathability depending on weave density and thread count. Rayon's regenerated cellulose structure allows air circulation and moisture vapor transmission significantly better than synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon. The natural moisture-wicking properties help regulate temperature by absorbing perspiration and releasing it into surrounding air, keeping sleep surface drier and cooler. Breathability varies by rayon type - lyocell typically most breathable, followed by modal, then standard viscose. Rayon generally more breathable than polyester but typically less breathable than natural linen or lyocell produced via closed-loop process. Tighter weaves reduce air permeability while looser weaves enhance airflow. The smooth fiber surface facilitates air movement while cellulose structure manages moisture effectively. Suitable for moderate hot sleepers though exceptional hot sleepers may prefer linen or lyocell with superior moisture management capabilities.
Certifications & Standards
Lyocell
Rayon
Advantages & Disadvantages
Lyocell
Advantages
Disadvantages
Rayon
Advantages
Disadvantages
Expert Recommendation
Both Lyocell and Rayon are excellent pillow materials with distinct advantages. Your optimal choice depends on your individual sleep needs, physical requirements, budget constraints, and personal preferences.
Choose Lyocell if you:
- •Hot sleepers and night sweats
- •Sensitive skin, eczema, and dermatitis
- •Acne-prone skin
- •Allergy sufferers
Choose Rayon if you:
- •Budget-conscious consumers wanting silk feel
- •Hot sleepers and night sweaters
- •Sensitive skin when certified OEKO-TEX
- •Hair health concerns
Ideal Use Cases
Lyocell
Hot sleepers and night sweats - scientifically proven superior moisture-wicking keeps sleepers cool and dry
Sensitive skin, eczema, and dermatitis - clinical studies show reduced redness and itching with lyocell clothing
Acne-prone skin - antibacterial properties prevent bacterial buildup that causes breakouts on pillowcase surface
Allergy sufferers - hypoallergenic properties and moisture control create inhospitable environment for dust mites
Chemical sensitivities - non-toxic, OEKO-TEX certified production free from harmful substances and pesticides
Environmental consciousness - closed-loop sustainable production with minimal water, energy, and chemical use
Those wanting luxury feel on budget timeline - silky softness comparable to expensive silk at more accessible price
People seeking low-maintenance bedding - requires less frequent washing, resists odors, easy machine-washable care
Individuals concerned about hair health - smooth surface reduces friction preventing breakage, tangles, and frizz
Those in humid climates - moisture-wicking prevents dampness and mildew growth in high-humidity environments
Rayon
Budget-conscious consumers wanting silk feel - significantly cheaper than natural silk with similar properties
Hot sleepers and night sweaters - moisture absorption and breathability superior to synthetic fabrics
Sensitive skin when certified OEKO-TEX - smooth fibers reduce friction and irritation when properly processed
Hair health concerns - smooth surface prevents breakage, frizz, and tangles compared to cotton
Those accepting semi-synthetic fabrics - comfortable with chemical processing for desired performance
People seeking elegant aesthetics - beautiful drape and subtle sheen enhance bedroom appearance
Individuals wanting variety - readily available in wide range of colors, patterns, and price points
Those in warm climates - breathability and moisture management ideal for hot, humid environments
Consumers prioritizing softness over durability - prefer luxurious feel even with shorter lifespan
People wanting versatile fabric - different rayon types (modal, lyocell) offer varying properties
Allergen Resistance & Health Concerns
Lyocell
Hypoallergenic:
Allergies:
Lyocell is naturally hypoallergenic and excellent for allergy sufferers. The smooth, non-irritating fiber surface combined with superior moisture management creates inhospitable environment for dust mites and allergens. Clinical studies demonstrate that individuals with atopic dermatitis experience significantly reduced redness and itching when wearing lyocell clothing compared to conventional fabrics. The closed-loop production process avoids harsh chemicals, pesticides, and toxic substances found in conventional cotton processing, reducing chemical sensitivity reactions. When certified OEKO-TEX Standard 100, lyocell contains no harmful substances that could trigger allergic responses. The moisture-wicking properties keep fabric surface dry, preventing the damp conditions where dust mites and mold thrive. However, standard weave lyocell does not provide complete dust mite barrier unless combined with proper allergen-proof pillow protectors underneath.
Dust Mites:
Lyocell provides excellent protection against dust mites through multiple mechanisms. Superior moisture-wicking capability rapidly removes humidity that dust mites require for survival and reproduction—mites cannot thrive in dry environments below 50% relative humidity. The smooth fiber surface with reduced friction accumulates fewer dead skin cells (dust mite food source) compared to rougher cotton textures. Natural antibacterial properties from moisture management create less hospitable conditions for mites and other microorganisms. Studies show moisture control is more effective for dust mite prevention than chemical treatments. However, standard lyocell weave does not provide complete physical barrier against dust mites penetrating through fabric. For maximum protection, use lyocell pillowcases over allergen-proof pillow protectors with pore sizes under 10 microns. Regular washing in warm water (40°C) effectively removes any dust mites and allergens from lyocell fabric.
Chemical Concerns:
Lyocell production is remarkably free of toxic chemicals compared to conventional textile manufacturing. The revolutionary closed-loop process uses N-Methylmorpholine N-oxide (NMMO), a non-toxic organic solvent that is 99.8% recovered and reused—unlike viscose rayon which uses toxic carbon disulfide harmful to workers and environment. The eucalyptus and other wood sources grow naturally without pesticides, herbicides, fertilizers, or irrigation on sustainably managed FSC/PEFC certified plantations. No chemical bleaching required since lyocell emerges naturally white from production process. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification ensures finished fabric contains no harmful substances including formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, or carcinogenic dyes. EU Ecolabel certification confirms environmentally responsible production throughout entire lifecycle. No VOC off-gassing or synthetic chemical residues. Ideal for chemical sensitivities and health-conscious consumers.
Rayon
Hypoallergenic:
Allergies:
Rayon can be hypoallergenic when properly manufactured and certified OEKO-TEX Standard 100, ensuring harmful chemical residues removed during finishing. The smooth, rounded cellulose fiber structure naturally resists trapping allergens compared to rougher cotton fibers. However, significant concerns exist regarding residual manufacturing chemicals - improperly processed rayon may contain traces of carbon disulfide, sodium hydroxide, sulfuric acid, ammonia, or other processing chemicals triggering reactions in chemically-sensitive individuals. Always verify OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification confirming fabric tested free from harmful substances including formaldehyde, heavy metals, pesticides, and carcinogenic dyes. Some individuals may have sensitivity to rayon/viscose cellulose fibers themselves regardless of processing quality. Standard weave rayon does not provide complete dust mite barrier - combine with allergen-proof pillow protectors achieving pore sizes under 10 microns for maximum protection.
Dust Mites:
Rayon provides moderate protection against dust mites through moisture-wicking properties removing humidity mites require for survival and reproduction. The smooth cellulose fiber surface accumulates fewer dead skin cells (dust mite food source) compared to rougher cotton textures with greater surface area. Moisture absorption capability helps maintain drier environment less hospitable to dust mite colonization - mites thrive in humidity above 50% relative humidity. However, standard rayon weave does not provide physical barrier preventing dust mites from penetrating through fabric. For maximum dust mite protection, use rayon pillowcases over allergen-proof pillow protectors with pore sizes under 10 microns creating complete impermeable barrier. Regular washing in warm water (40°C if fabric tolerates - verify manufacturer instructions as some rayon requires cold only) effectively kills dust mites and removes accumulated allergens. Despite moisture management benefits, rayon itself does not possess antimicrobial or dust mite repellent properties - protection comes from environmental conditions rather than inherent material characteristics.
Chemical Concerns:
SERIOUS chemical concerns exist throughout rayon manufacturing process despite natural cellulose origins. The viscose process uses highly toxic chemicals including carbon disulfide (causes psychosis, neurological damage, cardiovascular disease, blindness), sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), sulfuric acid, ammonia, and various bleaching agents. Carbon disulfide toxicity has been well-documented since the 1800s with devastating effects on rayon workers. Studies from 1930s revealed 30% of American rayon workers experienced significant health impacts. Medical research documents severe peripheral neuropathy, cerebral atrophy, heart disease, and psychiatric illness among exposed workers. Approximately 50% of chemicals released as hazardous air and water pollutants in many factories globally. Modern closed-loop facilities can recover 90-99% of chemicals minimizing environmental impact and worker exposure, but these systems not universally implemented, especially in Asia where production concentrated. Properly finished fabric should be safe for consumer skin contact when certified OEKO-TEX Standard 100, confirming harmful residues removed through washing. However, manufacturing process remains chemically intensive with serious occupational health and environmental consequences. For truly chemical-free options, choose mechanically-processed natural fibers or lyocell using safer amine oxide closed-loop process.
Care & Maintenance
Lyocell
Washable:
Washing Instructions:
Machine washable in cold to lukewarm water (maximum 30-40°C) using gentle or delicate cycle. Use mild, eco-friendly liquid detergent—preferably eucalyptus-based or wool wash. Fully dilute detergent in water before adding pillowcases to prevent staining. Avoid detergents with Optical Brightening Agents (OBAs) which can weaken and discolor fibers. Wash similar colors together and turn pillowcases inside out to protect outer surface. Maximum spinning speed of 400 RPM to prevent fiber stress. Hand washing ideal for longest lifespan. Wash every 1-2 weeks or as needed.
Drying Instructions:
Air drying strongly recommended for maximum fabric longevity—hang or lay flat in well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. If air drying, pillowcases may feel slightly stiff; remedy by tumbling in dryer on low heat for 10-12 minutes before hanging to achieve soft finish. If machine drying necessary, use lowest heat setting and remove while still slightly damp to minimize wrinkles. Never use high heat which causes shrinkage and fiber damage. Never wring out—gently press to remove excess water. Ensure completely dry before storage to prevent mildew.
Maintenance Tips:
- •Pre-wash new lyocell pillowcases before first use to remove any manufacturing residues and allow initial 3% shrinkage
- •Wash every 1-2 weeks—lyocell's antibacterial properties mean less frequent washing needed than cotton
- •Never use fabric softeners—coat fibers blocking natural moisture-wicking and breathability capabilities
Rayon
Washable:
Washing Instructions:
Machine washable in cold water (maximum 30°C) using gentle or delicate cycle. Use mild liquid detergent without optical brightening agents - avoid powder detergents. Turn pillowcases inside out before washing to protect exterior surface. Wash similar colors together to prevent color bleeding. CRITICAL: Rayon loses 50-70% of strength when wet making it extremely fragile. Handle gently and avoid overloading washing machine. Hand washing strongly recommended for maximum longevity. Do not wring, twist, or aggressively handle wet fabric. Wash every 1-2 weeks or as needed.
Drying Instructions:
Air drying strongly recommended to preserve fabric integrity and minimize shrinkage. Hang or lay flat in well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight which rapidly weakens and fades rayon fibers. If machine drying absolutely necessary, use lowest heat setting and remove while still slightly damp. Never use medium or high heat which causes significant shrinkage beyond initial 3-5% and permanently weakens already-delicate wet fibers. Expect 3-5% shrinkage on first wash even with proper cold water care. Remove immediately to minimize wrinkling. Never wring out wet rayon.
Maintenance Tips:
- •Pre-wash new rayon pillowcases before first use to remove manufacturing residues and allow initial 3-5% shrinkage
- •Wash every 1-2 weeks - rayon's moisture absorption means slightly more frequent washing than cotton may be needed
- •Never use fabric softeners - coat fibers blocking natural moisture absorption and reducing silky feel
Price Range & Value
Lyocell
Low
$27
Average
$55
High
$100
Expected Lifespan:
10-15 years (as pillowcase fabric)
Rayon
Low
$15
Average
$35
High
$70
Expected Lifespan:
3-6 years (as pillowcase fabric)
Durability & Longevity Factors
Lyocell
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
- •Quality of manufacturing - TENCEL™ branded lyocell from Lenzing typically outlasts generic versions
- •Washing frequency and technique - cold water and gentle cycle significantly extend fabric lifespan
- •Drying method - air drying or low heat tumble dry preserves fibers better than high-heat machine drying
- •Detergent type - mild, eco-friendly liquid detergent without optical brightening agents protects fiber integrity
- •Fabric weight and construction - heavier, tighter weaves generally more durable than lightweight constructions
- •Blend composition - 100% lyocell lasts longer than blends with synthetic or lower-quality fibers
- •Storage conditions - cool, dry storage in breathable containers prevents moisture damage and mildew
- •Use of fabric softeners - avoiding softeners and bleach maintains natural properties and extends lifespan
Rayon
Factors Affecting Lifespan:
- •Quality of rayon manufacturing - higher-quality viscose processing with longer fibers creates more durable fabric
- •Type of rayon - modal and high-wet modulus rayon more durable than standard viscose rayon
- •Thread count and weave density - tighter weaves with higher thread counts resist wear better than loose weaves
- •Washing frequency and technique - cold water and gentle cycle significantly extend fabric lifespan
- •Drying method - air drying or low heat tumble dry preserves fibers much better than high heat
- •Exposure to sunlight - UV rays rapidly weaken cellulose fibers causing premature deterioration
- •Chemical quality in manufacturing - properly processed rayon with minimal residual chemicals lasts longer
- •Storage conditions - cool, dry storage in breathable containers prevents moisture damage and fiber degradation
- •Blend composition - pure rayon differs from rayon/cotton or rayon/polyester blends in durability characteristics
- •Pilling resistance - higher-quality manufacturing with consistent fiber lengths resists surface pilling
Environmental Impact & Sustainability
Lyocell
Sustainability:
Lyocell represents one of the most sustainable textile production processes available. The revolutionary closed-loop manufacturing system recovers and reuses 99.8% of the organic solvent (NMMO) and 95% of process water, creating near-zero waste compared to conventional textile production. Lyocell uses 50% less carbon emissions and 50% less water than generic lyocell/modal, and approximately 20 times less water than cotton cultivation. The fiber is derived from FSC-certified or PEFC-certified sustainably managed forest plantations where eucalyptus, birch, beech, and spruce trees grow rapidly without irrigation (only natural rainfall), pesticides, or fertilizers on land unsuitable for food crops. These plantations do not compete with food production and support biodiversity. Eucalyptus trees specifically are highly efficient, yielding four times more fiber per acre than cotton while absorbing significant atmospheric CO2. Lenzing AG has received Platinum status from EcoVadis for three consecutive years for sustainability efforts. The production process is energy-efficient with some facilities recovering energy from bark and byproducts. REFIBRA™ technology further enhances sustainability by incorporating 30% recycled cotton scraps with wood pulp, diverting textile waste from landfills. EU Ecolabel certification confirms minimal environmental impact throughout entire product lifecycle.
Biodegradable:
Manufacturing:
Innovative closed-loop manufacturing process with minimal environmental impact. Wood chips from sustainably harvested trees are dissolved in non-toxic organic solvent (NMMO) in carefully controlled process. The cellulose solution is extruded through fine spinnerets creating smooth round fibers in "dry jet-wet spinning" process. The revolutionary aspect: 99.8% of the solvent and 95% of process water are continuously recovered, filtered, and reused in perpetual cycle, with only 0.2% requiring replacement. No toxic chemicals like carbon disulfide (used in viscose) involved. No chemical bleaching needed since fiber emerges naturally white. Production facilities often use renewable energy sources and recover energy from biomass byproducts. The entire process from wood pulp to finished fiber takes approximately two hours. Manufacturing facilities must meet stringent environmental standards including EU Ecolabel criteria covering resource efficiency, emissions, and chemical management. Look for TENCEL™ brand from Lenzing AG for guaranteed certified sustainable production, or Birla Excel which recovers 90%+ of chemicals. Generic lyocell may have lower environmental standards.
Rayon
Sustainability:
Complex and contradictory sustainability profile requiring careful evaluation. POSITIVE: Wood cellulose source renewable - sustainably managed forest plantations provide raw material. Trees absorb atmospheric CO2 during growth. Rayon approximately 90% biodegradable unlike petroleum-based polyester. FSC or PEFC certified sources ensure responsible forestry practices. NEGATIVE: Manufacturing process highly problematic. The viscose method uses highly toxic carbon disulfide causing serious worker health problems documented since 1800s. Studies show 30% of American rayon workers in 1930s experienced significant health impacts. Approximately 50% of toxic chemicals released as hazardous air and water pollutants in many factories. Production shifted from US and Europe to Asia where environmental controls often inadequate or absent - Japan reduced emissions but China and other countries lack pollution controls. High water and energy consumption during processing. Severe occupational health hazards including neurological damage, cardiovascular disease, psychiatric illness, and blindness continue today. Modern closed-loop facilities recovering 90-99% of chemicals exist but remain minority of global production. Overall environmental and social impact significantly worse than lyocell closed-loop process or natural fibers like organic cotton, linen, or wool.
Biodegradable:
Manufacturing:
Chemical-intensive viscose/rayon process with serious environmental and occupational health concerns well-documented since 1800s. Process begins with mechanically crushing wood pulp. Pulp dissolved in concentrated sodium hydroxide (caustic soda) solution at high pH creating alkali cellulose. This treated with highly toxic carbon disulfide forming sodium cellulose xanthate - viscous orange solution giving viscose its name. Solution aged and "ripened," filtered, degassed, then forced through fine spinnerets into sulfuric acid bath where filaments coagulate and regenerate into rayon fibers. Fibers washed repeatedly, bleached with chlorine or hydrogen peroxide, and spun into yarn. Carbon disulfide extremely toxic to workers causing documented psychosis, peripheral neuropathy, cerebral atrophy, heart disease, liver damage, and blindness - dangers known since 1800s. Medical authority Alice Hamilton investigated outbreaks in 1930s finding 30% of workers affected. Approximately 50% of carbon disulfide and other chemicals released into environment as air and water pollutants in many factories. Modern closed-loop facilities can recover 90-99% of chemicals and water dramatically reducing environmental impact, but these advanced systems not universally implemented, especially in Asia where production concentrated. Look for certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (harmful substances tested), FSC/PEFC (sustainable wood sourcing), EU Ecolabel (environmental standards). Alternative rayon types like lyocell use non-toxic amine oxide solvent with 99%+ recovery in truly closed-loop process, representing substantially safer and more sustainable option.