As an article of clothing, the shirt is traditionally made of natural materials since it is worn directly next to the skin. Cotton is particularly popular with consumers as a material for shirts. Adding TENCEL to traditional shirt fabrics produces a host of advantages. The moisture management and skin sensory characteristics are improved due to the good skin sensory properties of TENCEL.

Cotton and TENCEL are ideal partners in the shirt sector. They go together perfectly and enhance each other with their properties. Both fibers are from nature and reveal similar benefits such as good breathing properties.

“Even a small blending ratio with TENCEL gives shirts of cotton a new definition. As a result of this admixture, the hand, moisture management and gloss can be influenced in a positive manner,” Andreas Gürtler, head of the Performance Apparel Segment at Lenzing explains.

Thus the innovative potential of cotton-TENCEL fabrics is great. Depending on the blending ratio, the look and properties can be changed to suit your needs. Even easy-care properties can be improved. The addition of TENCEL improves the crease recovery after washing, which leads to a better ironing behavior.

“In-house estimates tell us that 16,000 tons of cotton are used in woven shirts and blouses. The shirt segment is seen as a growth segment for TENCEL for this very reason since even a small percent of TENCEL can have a positive influence on processing and mean greater comfort for the end consumer,” Andreas Gürtler says.

Particularly fabrics of long-staple cotton and TENCEL are unbeatable in terms of the quality and look. Already 60% of the TENCEL fabrics certified according to Lenzing's quality criteria are used for shirts and blouses. Of this one third is blended with cotton.

The goal is to further increase the share with cotton blends in the seasons to come,” Gürtler continues. To promote fabrics with cotton and TENCEL more effectively, the Lenzing certification system will be further extended. A special sew-on label is offered for the minimum blend of 10% TENCEL in a cotton fabric.