Refibra
A Tencel variant by Lenzing that blends wood pulp with recycled cotton scraps using closed-loop lyocell processing. Diverts cotton waste from landfills while producing a fiber with the same silky drape and softness as standard Tencel.
Material Score Breakdown
7-axis material rubric, not a garment verdict — see disclosure below.
How long the fabric lasts with regular use
Softness, feel against skin, wearability
Air flow and ventilation
Heat retention and insulation
Ability to pull sweat away from skin
Environmental impact of production and disposal
How easy it is to wash, dry, and maintain
Products with refibra
We don't have any refibra products in our catalog yet — it's a rare semi-synthetic fiber. Here are top-rated semi-synthetic alternatives:
What this score doesn't measure
This is a material rating, not a verdict on any specific garment made from refibra. The axes above are research-backed averages for the fiber itself.
- ×Construction. Yarn staple length, weave / knit structure, stitch count, finishing. Identical fiber, very different garments.
- ×Fabric weight (GSM). A 140 GSM tee and a 220 GSM tee made of the same refibra feel and last very differently.
- ×Dye + finishing chemicals. Beyond the three we flag (PFAS, formaldehyde, antimony), dozens of textile finishes aren't modelled.
Best For
Excellent sustainability (88) and biodegradable — great eco choice
Good breathability (78) and moisture wicking (72) for light activity
Good comfort (82) and care ease (68) for casual wear
Good durability (65) and comfort (82) for office wear
Good comfort (82) and breathability (78) for sleeping
Good breathability (78) and comfort (82) for undergarments
Good moisture wicking (72) and durability (65) for weather protection
Good durability (65) and breathability (78) for outdoor activities
Detailed Use Case Scores
Pros
- ✓ Upcycles cotton waste into premium fiber — circular economy
- ✓ Closed-loop production recovers 99%+ of solvents
- ✓ Silky soft drape comparable to standard Tencel
- ✓ Biodegradable and compostable at end of life
Cons
- ✗ Premium pricing above standard lyocell
- ✗ Weak when wet — requires gentle handling
- ✗ Limited color range compared to conventional fibers
- ✗ Not as widely available as standard Tencel
Better alternatives
Higher-scored semi-synthetic materials. Same category — what to consider instead.
+6 vs Refibra · 82/100
BiodegradableLenzing branded lyocell made from sustainably harvested eucalyptus wood pulp using a closed-loop process. Softer and more consistent than generic lyocell.
+4 vs Refibra · 80/100
BiodegradableMade from wood pulp using a closed-loop solvent process. The most sustainable semi-synthetic fiber, with excellent drape and comfort.
+2 vs Refibra · 78/100
BiodegradableAn ultra-fine variant of modal made from beech tree pulp, with fibers significantly thinner than silk. Exceptionally soft and lightweight, it is the premium choice for high-end underwear and loungewear.
Care Guide
Special Notes
• Weak when wet — handle gently
• Use mild detergent only
Additional Care Tips
- • Machine wash cold (30°C) on delicate cycle
- • Use mild detergent — avoid bleach
- • Line dry or tumble dry on low heat
- • Iron on low if needed
- • Handle gently when wet — fibers are weaker
Cost
$$$$$
Mid-range
Shrinkage
Minimal shrinkage — follow care instructions
Eco Rating
Strong environmental credentials