How to Care for Your TENCEL Modal Sleepwear

Quick Answer

To keep your TENCEL Modal sleepwear feeling buttery soft, machine wash on a gentle cycle in cold water and tumble dry on low or line dry. Avoid fabric softeners and high heat, which can break down the fibers over time.

TENCEL Modal is a favorite for pajamas because it feels incredibly soft against the skin, drapes beautifully, and is more sustainable than conventional fabrics. But to keep that luxurious feel wash after wash, you need to treat it right. Unlike cotton, which can take a beating, TENCEL Modal requires a bit more care to maintain its structure and softness.

Whether you've just invested in a new set or you're wondering how to revive an old favorite, these simple steps will help you extend the life of your sleepwear. From washing to drying to storage, we'll cover everything you need to know about modal fabric maintenance.

Why TENCEL Modal Needs Special Care

TENCEL Modal is made from sustainably sourced beechwood pulp, and its fibers are known for being soft, breathable, and absorbent. However, these same properties mean the fabric can be more delicate than synthetics like polyester. The fibers are also prone to shrinkage if exposed to high heat, and harsh detergents can strip away the natural softness.

Understanding the fabric's characteristics helps you avoid common pitfalls. For instance, the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certification on many Eberjey pieces ensures the dyes are safe and non-toxic, but that doesn't mean they're immune to fading. Proper care will keep colors vibrant and fabric intact for years.

• Always check the care label on your specific garment for manufacturer instructions.
• When in doubt, opt for the gentlest cycle and coolest water temperature.

Step-by-Step Washing Guide for Modal Pajamas

The first rule of washing modal pajamas is to turn them inside out. This protects the outer surface from friction and helps preserve the color and print. Use a mild liquid detergent that's free of bleach and optical brighteners, as these can weaken the fibers and cause yellowing.

Set your machine to a gentle or delicate cycle with cold water (30°C or below). Hot water can cause shrinkage and damage the elastane content that gives many modal blends their stretch. If you're washing multiple items, avoid overloading the machine—this can lead to excessive wrinkling and abrasion.

• Skip the fabric softener; it coats the fibers and reduces breathability over time.
• For stubborn stains, pre-treat with a small amount of detergent directly on the spot before washing.

Drying and Ironing Tips

After washing, gently squeeze out excess water without wringing or twisting the fabric. Wringing can distort the shape and damage the fibers. Lay the garment flat on a clean towel or hang it to dry in a shaded area. Direct sunlight can fade colors, so choose a well-ventilated spot out of harsh light.

If you prefer using a dryer, select the lowest heat setting and remove the items while they're still slightly damp to minimize wrinkles. High heat is the enemy of modal—it can cause shrinkage and make the fabric feel stiff. For ironing, use a cool iron and iron on the reverse side, or use a steamer to refresh the fabric without direct contact.

• Never use chlorine bleach on modal fabrics.
• If you must iron, test a small area first to ensure the temperature is safe.

Storage and Everyday Care

How you store your modal sleepwear matters too. Fold pajamas and robes neatly in a drawer rather than hanging them, as hangers can stretch out the shoulders and create bumps. Keep them in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading.

To keep your sleepwear fresh between washes, air them out after wearing. You can also use a fabric shaver to remove any pilling that develops, but do so gently to avoid damaging the weave. With these simple habits, your modal pieces will maintain their softness and shape for many nights to come.

• Avoid storing modal garments in plastic bags, which can trap moisture and cause mildew.
• Rotate your sleepwear so each set gets equal wear and time to rest.

5-Step Care Routine for TENCEL Modal Sleepwear

1. Check the care label: Before anything, read the manufacturer's instructions on your specific garment. Some blends may have unique requirements. Following the label prevents accidental damage from the start.
2. Turn inside out and pre-treat stains: Turn your pajamas inside out to protect the outer surface. Use a mild detergent on any stains before washing. This simple step preserves color and prevents stains from setting.
3. Wash on gentle cycle in cold water: Set your machine to delicate and use cold water (below 30°C). Avoid bleach and fabric softeners. Cold water protects the fibers and elastane, keeping the fit and softness intact.
4. Dry flat or tumble dry low: Gently squeeze out excess water, then lay flat or hang to dry. If using a dryer, choose the lowest heat and remove while slightly damp. Avoiding high heat prevents shrinkage and stiffness.
5. Store folded in a cool, dry place: Fold your sleepwear and keep it in a drawer away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging to prevent stretching. Proper storage extends the life of your modal garments.

Products That Benefit from Proper Care

• Malou TENCEL™ Modal Shortie Short PJ Set: Made from TENCEL™ Modal fibers and a touch of elastane, this buttery soft fabric is verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, meaning it’s dyed with safe and non-toxic dyes. The elastane content means you need to avoid high heat to prevent losing stretch. Gentle washing keeps the fabric soft and the fit true.
• Gisele Printed TENCEL™ Modal Short Sleeve Pant PJ Set: Made from TENCEL™ Modal fibers and a touch of elastane, this buttery soft fabric is verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. This set features a classic fit top with elbow-length sleeves, a button front, notch collar, and functional pocket. The functional pocket and classic fit are best preserved by washing inside out and drying flat to avoid warping the shape.
• William Printed TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set: Inspired by our best-selling women’s pajamas, but made just for him, our men’s PJ’s are cut from the same luxuriously soft and sustainable TENCEL™ Modal fabric. They’re designed to be breathable, long lasting and machine washable. Machine washable doesn't mean careless—using a gentle cycle ensures these long-lasting pajamas stay breathable and polished for years.

Caring for your TENCEL Modal sleepwear doesn't have to be complicated. By following these simple steps, you'll keep your pajamas and robes feeling soft, looking vibrant, and lasting for many comfortable nights. Remember, a little extra attention goes a long way in maintaining the eco-friendly luxury of modal fabric.