Semi-synthetic bedding is made with fibers that are derived from wood pulp. Bamboo, modal, Tencel and other types of semi-synthetic bedding are sometimes more eco-friendly than polyester and cotton. They are also a cheaper alternative to all-natural bedding made from silk, wool, linen or hemp. 

In this post, we explain everything you need to know about semi-synthetic bedding including their pros, cons and how they compare to other types of bedding.

What Is Semi-synthetic Bedding Made From?

Semi-synthetic bedding is called so because it is made with fibers that are derived from plants, usually trees. These fibers are made from plant cellulose, the main building block of plants.

Semi-synthetic fibers can be made from different parts of plants, and even plant waste. But it’s mostly made from wood pulp that’s gotten from trees like eucalyptus or ‘woody’ grasses like bamboo.  

Cellulose from plants undergoes a lot of processing with various chemicals to turn it into semi-synthetic fibers. This is unlike natural fibers like silk or wool that undergo minimal processing and typically don't contain any added chemicals.

Semi-synthetic fibers are also very different from fully synthetic materials like polyester and nylon, which are derived from petroleum. 

Semi-synthetic bed sheets, pillow cases and other bedding can be 100% a particular fiber like bamboo, or a blend of fibers like bamboo and cotton or modal and polyester. 

Types of Semi-synthetic Fibers: Viscose vs. Modal vs. Lyocell 

There are three main types of semi-synthetic fibers from which bedding is made: viscose or rayon, modal and lyocell. 

Viscose/Rayon

The term ‘rayon’ can be confusing. You’ll sometimes find modal and lyocell materials being referred to as rayon. 

Technically, rayon refers to all kinds of semi-synthetic fibers that are made from plants. They are also called cellulosic fibers. So viscose, modal and lyocell are all rayon fibers. 

In modern usage, however, viscose and rayon are often used interchangeably. That’s probably because viscose is the most common type of rayon. 

Viscose is the oldest type of cellulosic fiber with its history going as far back as the 1800s. Viscose fabrics quickly became popular because they imitated the soft and silky feel of natural fabrics like silk and cotton. 

Similar to other types of rayon, the process of producing viscose fibers begins with wood pulp. It is modified and then dissolved in chemicals to form a liquid. The dissolved cellulose is then regenerated using acid, usually sulfuric acid. This forms fibers that can then be spun into fabric. 

Modal 

Modal used to be a trademark for viscose fiber made by the company Lenzing AG. But over time, it has become a generic term for a type of rayon that’s stronger than traditional viscose, particularly when wet.  

Modal is made in a very similar process as viscose. But the fibers undergo additional modifications such as stretching to make them stronger, less likely to shrink and pile, and more resistant to wear and tear. 

Lyocell 

Lyocell is a modern and more environmentally friendly method of processing wood pulp into rayon fibers. One of the best known brands of lyocell fabric is Tencel, which is made by Lenzig. 

The lyocell process of making rayon fibers is considered more eco-friendly for two main reasons. 

One, the wood pulp undergoes fewer steps in processing, which also means fewer chemicals are used. Furthermore, those chemicals used, such as the solvent in which the pulp is dissolved, are non-toxic. 

Secondly, lyocell fibers are made in a closed loop process. This means that the materials used in processing are recycled, thus reducing waste and energy consumption. 

The lyocell process is more expensive, so most semi-synthetic fabrics in the market are viscose. 

Common Types of Semi-synthetic Bedding

Different kinds of fabric are spun from semi-synthetic fibers. The most popular fabric is bamboo, which is made from bamboo pulp. 

Tencel, a brand name of Lenzig, is another popular material. It can be made from different kinds of trees, but it is mostly sourced from eucalyptus. 

You may also come across modal bedding, which is produced through the modal process. Most modal bedding is made with fibers derived from beech trees.  

Pros and Cons of Semi-synthetic Bedding

Pros 

• Can be more eco-friendly than synthetic bedding and even cotton. But this depends on the particular manufacturer. Look for semi-synthetic bedding with sustainability certifications such as FSC (Forest Stewardship Council). 
• Semi-synthetic bedding has a soft and silky texture that rivals that of natural bedding. 
• Semi-synthetic bedding has good breathability, cooling and moisture-wicking performance. Good quality bamboo or Tencel sheets are more comfortable than cotton sheets.
• Semi-synthetic bedding is cheaper compared to natural bedding, particularly wool, silk, hemp, linen and high-end cotton. 

Cons

• Some types of semi-synthetic bedding are not very eco-friendly. They are processed using toxic chemicals and they are also linked to deforestation. That’s why it’s important to buy bedding that’s been certified for sustainability. 
• Viscose bedding is delicate and doesn't last long. So you have to be careful how to wash and maintain it. If you want stronger and longer lasting semi-synthetic bedding, go with Lyocell (e.g. Tencel or bamboo lyocell). 
• Most semi-synthetic bedding costs more than synthetic polyester bedding. So it may not be the best choice if you are on a budget.