If You Haven’t Tried TENCEL Underwear Yet, Here’s Why You Should (+ The Best Brands)

I almost always recommend natural and organic fabrics for underwear. Not only are they more planet-friendly, but they’re also better for longterm human health.

But… I get that natural fibers can’t always ‘perform’ the same way synthetics can.

And that’s where TENCEL comes in.

TENCEL is a semi-synthetic. (I’ll get to what that is in a minute.) In my opinion, it is the best fabric option when you want something healthier and more eco-friendly, but still feels smooth, soft, and a little closer to synthetic.

I personally really like wearing TENCEL. It is literally cool to the touch, making it great for activewear or bedding (if you sleep hot). It’s generally softer than cotton, hemp, linen, or wool too—so it’s a good option for people with sensitive skin.

If you’re interested in TENCEL undies, you’re in the right place because I’ve rounded up all the best brands to try.

This guide contains product recommendations and we may receive compensation if you purchase through certain links. As always, we only make recommendations that are genuine!

What is TENCEL?

TENCEL is a type of rayon fabric that’s made by a company called Lenzing. TENCEL is actually a branded fabric. So, “Kleenex” is to “tissue” what “TENCEL” is to “rayon”, “viscose”, or “lyocell.” (Rayon, viscose, and lyocell are all closely-related types of fabric.)

TENCEL a semi-synthetic fabric made out of wood pulp from FSC-certified eucalyptus trees. It qualifies as a “semi” synthetic because it’s sourced from plants (rather than petroleum), but because it goes through so much processing, it can no longer be called “natural” by the time it becomes a fabric.

Unlike most other types of rayon, Lenzing’s TENCEL is manufactured using a closed-loop process, which means all of the chemicals used to produce it are kept from being dumped into the atmosphere or waterways. This, combined with the actual chemicals used, are what makes TENCEL a much safer, less toxic type of rayon fabric.

If you’re interested in diving deeper into TENCEL and other types of rayon (and how they differ), you can do that right here.

TENCEL Is the Best Combo of Softness + Durability

TENCEL is actually an amazing fabric. As I mentioned before, it’s really soft, but it’s not thick like cotton or thin like silk. It’s somewhere in the middle.

One of the best parts about TENCEL is that it actually has temperature regulating properties. Even after you’ve been wearing TENCEL for a long period of time, it remains slightly cool to the touch.

This is why TENCEL bed sheets and blankets can be so great for those who tend to sleep hot! This is also why TENCEL can make a great choice for non-toxic underwear. If you’re in a hot environment, moving around a lot, or exercising, it can help to keep your private parts cool, minimizing sweat and moisture.

The Best TENCEL Underwear Brands for Women & Men

So let’s get to it. Here is my list of the best TENCEL underwear brands. This list includes TENCEL panties, feminine briefs, boxers, boxer briefs, thongs, bralettes, and more.

Organic Basics

Organic Basics’ ethically-made TENCEL panties, bralettes, and boxer briefs come in a variety of colors. They’re super soft and comfortable for all day, everyday wear.

I’ve had several underwear pieces from Organic Basics over the years and I’ve loved almost all of them. In fact, my absolute favorite bra is from Organic Basics (although it’s made of organic cotton, not TENCEL).

Sizes: XS-XL

Toad & Co

If you’re looking for TENCEL boxers and/or boxer briefs for men, Toad & Co. is the place to look. They have solid colors as well as fun patterns.

This brand is also committed to sustainability and ethical production throughout its entire supply chain and production process.

Sizes: XS-XXL

Tomboyx

Tomboyx carries gender-neutral bralettes, panties, thongs, boxer briefs, shorts, tanks, and more. They come in standard black and grey as well as really fun and unique designs and colors. A lot of their underwear is made from OEKO-TEX certified (conventional) cotton, but they do have a large TENCEL collection.

I have several of their TENCEL garments, including underwear, a bra, and an activewear shirt. I honestly love the way the fabric feels. It’s super soft, cooling, and lightweight, making it great for working out or everyday wear.

Sizes: 3XS-6X

Allbirds

You might know them because of their popular sustainable wool sneakers, but did you know Allbirds also has underwear? Yep—their super-comfortable briefs, thongs, hipsters, bralettes, boxer briefs, and trunks are made out of a blend of organic cotton, TENCEL, and a little bit of spandex for the softest, best fit.

Sizes: XS-XXXL

Proclaim

Proclaim makes high- and mid-rise briefs, thongs, and shorts along with bralettes made from TENCEL, organic cotton, and hemp. Everything is made ethically in Los Angeles, California, USA.

Sizes: S-3XL

Rayne & Skye

This brand is a little bit more on the pricier side, but if you can afford it, it’s worth it! Handmade in the USA in the Northwoods of Wisconsin, these undies contain a blend of TENCEL and organic cotton along with non-toxic, OEKO-TEX dyes.

Sizes: XS-XL

Tentree

Tentree’s panties and boxer briefs are made with a blend of TENCEL, organic cotton, and elastane. They don’t have a huge collection, but their basic undies get the job done.

Everything from this Canadian company is made ethically, too.

Sizes: XS-XXL

Even More Brands for TENCEL Panties, Boxer Briefs, and More

If you didn’t find what you’re looking for from the above brands, here are even more options for you:

• BN3TH: A good option for TENCEL boxer briefs! Sizes 2XS-3XL. Lots of different colors and patterns to choose from.

• Cosabella: Offers a few underwear & bra options made of majority TENCEL (plus a little elastane). I like their more feminine designs. Sizes S-L.

• Hanky Panky: Made in the USA. Offers several different styles for women (like thongs and boy shorts). Sizes XS-XL.

• What about huha? This is another TENCEL underwear brand that is an okay option. However, they infuse their undies with zinc, which I’m not a huge fan of.

P.S. If you’re looking for other types of non-toxic and organic underwear, check out these related guides:

• best organic cotton underwear that’s made in the USA
• the best hemp underwear brands
• best organic plus-size underwear
• the best organic cotton thongs
• the best organic boxers & underwear for men

If you’re looking for non-toxic underwear that’s soft, cool, and comfortable, TENCEL is a great option—especially compared to almost all other synthetics.

If you know of another great TENCEL underwear brand, let me know in the comments and I’ll consider adding it to the list!