Bamboo vs Tencel sheets: experts uncover which is the better material for sleep

The choices of bed sheet materials have expanded way beyond cotton. While it's certain to remain a staple fabric in the sleep world, there are two alternatives making their way into the industry: Tencel and bamboo.

With benefits including better temperature regulation, more cooling properties, and, most importantly, a smaller carbon footprint, both Tencel and bamboo are becoming top choices for those wanting to sleep better and shop more sustainably.

But what are the differences? With similarities in look and feel, it can be quite easy to mistake one for the other unless you've been informed otherwise. Both are marketed as having the environment at the forefront, are recommended for hot sleepers, and are super soft to the touch. Turns out, it's all in the manufacturing process, and one could actually be an eco-friendlier option than the other.

To decode marketing jargon and find out which bed sheet material is better for you, and the earth, we've spoken to bedding experts for their insight and knowledge on bed sheet making and materials. As H&G's sleep editor, I've also tested out both Tencel and bamboo bed sheets. Having compared my sleep experience, there is a clear best bed sheet winner in the Bamboo vs Tencel sheet debate.

Bamboo vs Tencel sheets

Before heading into which is the better bed sheet fabric, it's worth knowing 'What is Tencel?' and the benefits it can have on sleep. Key to deciding between the two is understanding that Tencel solely refers to the trademarked name for lyocell fibers. Where Tencel is used across clothing, bedding, and other textiles it can easily be confused as being the material itself.

What's the difference?

The technical difference between bamboo vs Tencel sheets lies not in how they feel, or even their sleep benefits, but in how they are made. As Anni Stromfeld, co-founder of sustainable bedding brand SIJO, explains, 'Bamboo and Tencel lyocell are extremely similar because both originate from wood pulp. Both fibers lead to bedding with a cooling feeling, breathability, and hypoallergenic properties. Things differ, though, in the creation process of each fiber.' 'Tencel is lyocell, which is made in a closed-loop process and has raw materials that are certified to be sustainable.' she continues.

Bamboo fabrics, on the other hand, require a more complicated process and can be created differently. Amanda Turner, VP of  Product & Innovation at eco bedding brand Ettitude states, 'Not all bamboo textiles are created equal. Bamboo fabrics can be rayon, modal, or lyocell (like Tencel), meaning some bamboo bedding could contain harmful toxins.' Many brands might not disclose the type of bamboo fiber they use in their bed sheets.

'Ettitude uses 100% organically grown bamboo lyocell which is non-toxic.' she explains. 'Ettitude spent years of refining and testing its signature lyocell fabric to create the world’s first, proprietary CleanBamboo that is 100% pesticide free and made in a closed-loop manufacturing process.'

Bamboo vs Tencel: a comparison

I've tested both of these best cooling sheets. Very similar in style, look and feel, they can be difficult to differentiate. But they do have their differences. I've compared them both below, with specs and information to help you see both the similarities and how one may outweigh the other – aside from the manufacturing process.

Sijo AiryWeight Eucalyptus Sheet Set

Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Material: 100% TENCEL™ Lyocell Eucalyptus
Colors: 7
OEKO-TEK certified: Yes

If you're prone to overheating at night, eucalyptus bed sheets are a must. Eco-friendly and made from all-natural materials, they have sleep properties that actively work to release and dissipate heat as you need it. Moisture-wicking, naturally antimicrobial, and breathable, these vegan sheets are a life-changer for hot sleepers.

For

• + Eco-friendly

• + Cold to the touch

• + Ultra breathable

• + Great price

• + Soft and smooth

Against

• - Prone to wrinkling

Ettitude Signature Sateen Sheet Set

Sizes: Twin, twin XL, full, queen, king, California king
Material: Bamboo lyocell
Colors: 12
OEKO-TEK certified: Yes

Sustainably made, naturally cooling and temperature regulating, Ettitude's sheet set made of CleanBamboo fabric is my favorite for summer. Smooth to the touch, and moisture-wicking they kept me (a sweaty sleeper) cool at night. They wash well and never need to be ironed. I love how luxurious the silky finish looks draped over the bed – though this might not be for everyone.

For

• + Sustainable

• + Naturally cool to the touch

• + Stylish sateen finish

• + Moisture-wicking

Against

• - Silky look isn't for everyone

• - More expensive

Which material is better for sleep?

Putting the manufacturing methods aside, which is better for sleep? Both claim to have cooling benefits, including temperature regulation, moisture-wicking, breathability, and feeling cold to the touch. Texture-wise, they're both soft with a silky finish. Yet while I love both bedding sets, I find myself reaching for one more frequently than the over the other.

If you struggle to regulate your temperature and are looking for an all-season bedding set, you should buy bamboo. I use my Ettitude set more than the Sijo as it suits all weathers. Significantly softer than eucalyptus, I've found bamboo bed sheets to have a slightly brushed feel. It does feel cool to the touch, but I've also felt cozy on not-so-hot nights.

However, if you're an all-around hot sleeper, eucalyptus is the winner. I have to reach for my Sijo airyweight set during hot weather and heatwaves as I find it to be noticeably cooler than my bamboo Ettitude set. It's cold and crisp with a more lightweight feel that keeps you feeling breezy throughout the night.

FAQs

Is Tencel more expensive than bamboo?

Just like there is little difference in the look and feel, bamboo and Tencel tend to be around a similar price. The variety in cost will therefore depend on the brand. Bigger bedding brands may be able to charge more than others because of quality and material processes.

That being said, Tencel should cost more than bamboo because the sourcing of materials and manufacturing uses more sustainable practices. This might be something to keep in mind when buying the best bed sheets. It's possible to buy cheap bamboo or eucalyptus bedding sets from Amazon, Target, or other retailers, but you should check the specs to see whether they use the Tencel trademark and what chemical processes are involved.

Generally bamboo and Tencel are more expensive than cotton or polyester bedding. But it's always worth investing in better sleep, and a better environment.

Why is Tencel so popular?

Tencel by Lenzing is quickly becoming one of the most popular material choices in both bedding and clothing. Why? With a growing interest to shop sustainably and invest in products that are made to last, Tencel is an eco-friendly option that's durable and sustainable. Made from eucalyptus wood, it has a smaller carbon footprint than cotton and uses no chemical dyes or processes in comparison to previous wood-derived fabrics like rayon or modal. Not to mention it has amazing cooling properties, is super soft to the touch, and has a luxuriously silky smooth finish.

While the difference between bamboo and Tencel isn't immediately clear, it pays to do your research. Not checking the material properties and specifications is a major bed sheet-buying mistake – especially if you're wanting to shop and sleep sustainably. Don't let marketing jargon and false advertisement lead you into buying a product that isn't as eco-friendly as it seems. It's a jungle out there.