Cupro and Tencel are examples of “regenerated cellulose” fabric made from fabric waste. They both stem from plant-based materials that are chemically processed to produce a smooth fabric. This article puts them head to head, to help you decipher which is best for your needs. Introduction: Cupro vs Tencel Cupro, also known as Bemberg is made from recycled fabric exposed to chemicals such as ammonia, copper, and caustic soda. In doing so, the chemical structure of the cellulose in cotton or any other plant product changes dramatically, which makes cupro an example of a type of rayon that may be marketed as a natural or recycled fiber. Tencel is also produced in this way, albeit with a more ecologically friendly processing method. Similarities Between Cupro vs Tencel
They both stem from plant-based materials that undergo chemical processing to produce a smooth fabric.
The finished fiber is technically man-made so neither qualifies as a natural fiber, even though both may be marketed as such.
Cupro and Tencel are fine lightweight fabrics with great elasticity and softness.
Fabric made of Cupro or Tencel has excellent drape, doesn’t wrinkle easily, and holds dye well so allowing for vibrant colors.
Both Cupro and Tencel can be mixed with other fabrics to create a new fabric, increasing beneficial properties such as softness and durability.
Cupro and Tencel are both very breathable and manage moisture so they help with temperature regulation and odor control.
Both Cupro and Tencel’s smooth fiber surface feels soft and supple against the skin and their incredible wicking abilities keep the skin dry, making them great fabric for sensitive skin.
As plant-derived materials, both are biodegradable as well as vegan friendly.
Both can be machine washed (gentle wash).
Differences Between Cupro vs Tencel
Whilst cupro is a recycled fiber, depending on where it comes from it may have the same negative impact on the environment as fully synthetic fibers due to its highly toxic processing. Tencel on the other hand has less impact on the environment due to its sophisticated processing methods.
Tencel fabric can look and feel like anything from suede to silk to denim, whilst Cupro mostly resembles silk and is used in place of silk for garments.
Cupro is used exclusively in apparel whilst Tencel is also used in bedding and home textiles.
Cupro is incredibly low cost with high-profit margins. Vast quantities of waste cellulose can be acquired for very little money, and by blending this cellulose with a few basic chemicals, it’s possible to create entirely new cellulose fibers from scratch. Tencel ơn the other hand is more expensive because of its higher cost production processes.
Cupro vs Tencel: Environmental Impact Cupro and Tencel are both derivatives of rayon - but both with very different environmental footprints. Despite being recycled, Cupro has a decidedly negative impact on the environment. Over the years, China has gradually accumulated the world’s waste at extremely low cost, and lab scientists have worked to develop new ways to transform this waste material into a usable fabric at low cost. Copper, ammonia, and caustic soda are all cheap yet highly toxic chemicals. Since so little regard is given to the safety of mixing cellulose with toxic chemicals and turning it into a wearable fabric, it stands to reason that equal disregard is paid to the proper disposal of these substances once the production process is complete. China’s synthetic textile factories are already known as havens for modern-day slave labor and add to this toxic processing and waste and we can see that Cupro is not a fabric that is sustainable for the planet long-term. In saying that, Asahi Kasei Corporation from Japan produces a large portion of the world’s Cupro and has declared goals of zero-emission and energy conservation. The waste produced during the processes to create Cupro is thoroughly recycled, with the overall rate at nearly 100%. Therefore, to gauge the environmental impact, you really need to examine where your Cupro is originating from. Tencel, on the other hand, uses chemicals that are less toxic and get recycled in the process so there’s minimal waste. It also uses wood from trees in sustainably harvested forests. So all in all, Tencel is a better option in terms of eco-friendliness. Cupro vs Tencel: Applications Cupro is almost exclusively used in apparel, with scarves being one of the few accessories that also sometimes include this fabric. In many cases, Cupro is mixed with natural or synthetic fibers that give the finished garment or accessory different attributes. Example of applications where Cupro is mixed with another fabric are in blouses, tank tops, t-shirts, sports bras, and other light, intimate apparel. On its own, Cupro is most commonly used in thin, sheer garments like form-fitting dresses. Tencel ơn the other hand has a wider range of applications as it can look and feel like anything from suede to silk to denim. It is used mainly in apparel, however is also becoming popular in home textiles such as bedding. Cupro vs Tencel: Conclusion Whilst both of these fibers have similar origins, it seems that the processing methods used result in two very different fabrics with very different outlooks - one with environmental consideration at its core, the other - profit and gain. It highlights the absolute importance of knowing where your fabric is coming from.