At The Filtery, we love natural and organic fabrics, as they tend to be generally better for human as well as environmental health. But not all synthetics are bad either!
We recently did a deep dive into rayon fabric and whether or not it’s toxic for the planet, garment workers, and/or consumers. (Spoiler: it’s not great.)
However, there are a few types of rayon that are much better than others… and TENCEL is one of those!
So today, we’ll talk briefly about why TENCEL is a fabric worth wearing and then we’ll give you what you came here for: our picks for the best brands making TENCEL underwear.
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
Table of Contents
Feature Image Credit: Organic Basics
This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may earn a small commission if you choose to make a purchase. We only make recommendations that are genuine and meet our ingredient/material safety standards.
What is TENCEL?
TENCEL is a lyocell (rayon) fabric that’s made by a company called Lenzing. It’s a semi-synthetic fabric made out of wood pulp from FSC-certified eucalyptus trees. 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.
You can read more about TENCEL and other types of rayon right here.
What Does TENCEL Feel Like?
TENCEL is actually an amazing fabric. 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 11 Best TENCEL Underwear Brands
So let’s get to it. Here is our 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 and Vegan-approved TENCEL panties and bralettes come in a variety of colors. They’re super soft and comfortable for all day, everyday wear.
Sizes: XS-XL
Allbirds
You might know them because of their popular sustainable wool sneakers, but did you know Allbirds also has underwear?! Yep—their uber-comfortable briefs, thongs, hipsters, and bralettes are made out of a blend of TENCEL, Merino Wool, and Spandex for the softest, best fit.
Plus, everything that comes from this B Corp certified company is ethically-made. The packaging is recycled and each purchase gives back to non-profit organizations.
Sizes: XS-XXXL
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 (including glow in the dark!). A lot of their underwear is made from OEKO-TEX certified (conventional) cotton, but they do have a large TENCEL collection!
Sizes: 3XS-6XL
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
Body
15 Best Organic Men’s Underwear Brands for Healthy Boxers & Briefs
The fabric next to your private parts matters! So here are the BEST brands for organic boxers, hemp boxer briefs, organic cotton briefs, and more.
Cosabella
Cosabella carries a few uniquely-designed panties and bras made from majority TENCEL (with some elastane as well).
This brand was established in Italy all the way back in 1983 by a husband and wife duo. Cosabella is always blending traditional Italian artisanship with fashion-forward innovations to create feminine, timeless designs that evoke confidence and individuality for every woman.
Sizes: S-L
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
BN3TH
If you’re looking for TENCEL boxer briefs, you gotta check out BN3TH. The soft and breathable TENCEL fabric combined with their “MyPakage Pouch Technology™ lifts and separates your boys, eliminating the need to shift or adjust.”
Plus, they come in a TON of different colors and patterns. So whether you’re looking for standard solids or crazy colors, you will definitely be able to find something you love.
Sizes: XXS-XXL
Tentree
Tentree’s Everyday briefs, thongs, and bras are made with a blend of TENCEL x REFIBRA Lyocell (partically recycled), organic cotton, and elastane. Everything from this Canadian company is made ethically, too.
Sizes: XS-XL
Hanky Panky
Hanky Panky had made it onto several of our underwear guides since they make underwear in the USA out of natural and eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and TENCEL.
Sizes: XS-XL
MeUndies
You probably already know about MeUndies. They actually don’t have any underwear made out of TENCEL, but they make this list because most of their underwear and bralettes are made out of Lenzing’s MicroModal, which is a non-toxic fabric that’s similar to TENCEL (just processed a bit differently).
They have a huge collection of different styles, sizes, patterns, and colors for people of all genders, so you’re bound to find something that’s just the right fit for you.
Sizes: XS-4XL
huha
This size-inclusive TENCEL underwear is unique because the fabric is actually infused with pharmaceutical zinc oxide, which is a naturally soothing and anti-microbial mineral. This helps to prevent bacteria and soothe even the most sensitive skin.
Sizes: 2XS-3XL
Proclaim
Proclaim makes high- and mid-rise briefs along with bralettes made from TENCEL, organic cotton, and hemp. Everything is made ethically in Los Angeles, California, USA.
Sizes: S-3XL
Conclusion
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 us know in the comments and we’ll consider adding it to the list!
Image Credits: All product photos belong to respective brands
