Elastane and spandex are the same fiber: a stretchy synthetic made of at least 85 percent segmented polyurethane, called “spandex” in the U.S. and “elastane” in Europe. Both names describe the same material, so a label that reads "5% elastane" and one that reads "5% spandex" are telling you the same thing.
Here is what the fiber is, why a small amount makes pajamas move with you, and how to wash stretch fabrics so they keep their shape.
Elastane vs. spandex: one fiber, two names
On U.S. clothing labels, spandex is the generic name for a manufactured fiber whose fiber-forming substance is a long-chain synthetic polymer made of at least 85 percent of a segmented polyurethane. European labels use "elastane" for essentially the same fiber: an elastofiber of at least 85 percent (by mass) segmented polyurethane that recovers after being stretched.
- Spandex: the generic name used on U.S. labels.
- Elastane: the name used on European labels.
- Same material: elastane is a recognized synonym for spandex.
You can see both names on Eberjey labels. Our Frida TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set ($158) is described as TENCEL™ Modal "and a touch of spandex," while its care label reads 95% TENCEL™ Modal, 5% elastane. Same fiber, different word.
What elastane actually does in your pajamas
Spandex is prized for one thing: elasticity. Spandex can stretch to roughly 500 percent of its length and return almost to its original size and shape. That combination of stretch and recovery is why a small percentage changes how a fabric behaves.
- Stretch: the fabric gives when you bend, reach or turn over in your sleep.
- Recovery: knees and seats are less likely to stay stretched out because the fiber pulls back.
- Fit: waistbands, cuffs and close-fitting styles hold their shape over the night.
Spandex can be blended with other fibers, and in pajamas it is usually a small share of the blend, so the main fiber sets the look and feel. Eberjey describes the elastane in Cozy Time as there "for stretch and recovery." For more on how stretch affects fit, see our pajama fit guide.
How much elastane is in Eberjey styles
A few percent is enough for sleepwear knits; lace intended to hug the body uses much more.
| Style | Composition | Price | Care highlights |
|---|---|---|---|
| Gisele TENCEL™ Modal Long PJ Set | 95% LENZING™ TENCEL™ Modal, 5% elastane | $158 | Inside out, machine wash cold, gentle; tumble dry low |
| Dream Rib Wide Leg Pant | 96% Lenzing™ Modal, 4% spandex | $128 | Machine wash cold, gentle, mesh wash bag; dry flat |
| Cozy Time Jogger | 96% TENCEL™ Modal, 4% elastane | $138 | Inside out, machine wash cold, gentle; tumble dry low |
| Soft Stretch Recycled Lace Plunge Bralette | 50% recycled nylon, 30% elastane, 20% nylon | $78 | Hand wash cold, line dry |
The Gisele set comes in sizes XXS–XXL; Dream Rib, Cozy Time and the lace bralette come in XS–XL. The matching Soft Stretch Recycled Lace Thong ($48) uses the same 30% elastane lace.
Browse the full ranges in Gisele pajamas, Cozy Time lounge and lingerie.
How to wash stretch fabrics so they keep their shape
Spandex resists degradation from body oils, but chlorine can break it down, and it is vulnerable to heat damage.
- No chlorine bleach: chlorine bleach should not be used on fabrics containing spandex. The Gisele, Frida and Dream Rib labels allow only non-chlorine bleach when needed.
- Keep heat low: follow the drying line on each label. Ours say tumble dry low (Gisele, Cozy Time) or dry flat (Dream Rib).
- Follow each label: lace with 30% elastane is hand wash cold and line dry, not machine dried.
Read more in how to care for luxury sleepwear so it lasts for years.
Is elastane comfortable to sleep in?
In small amounts, elastane mostly works in the background: the feel of the fabric comes from the main fiber, here TENCEL™ Modal, while the elastane adds give and recovery. If you prefer a looser, drapier feel, look at relaxed cuts; if you like pajamas that stay put, a knit with 4–5% elastane is a good place to start. To understand the modal side of these blends, read what TENCEL™ Modal is.
Frequently asked questions
Is elastane the same as spandex?
Yes. Spandex is the U.S. generic name and elastane is the name used in Europe. Both are defined as a fiber made of at least 85 percent segmented polyurethane.
Why do pajamas have 5% elastane?
A small amount of elastane adds stretch and recovery, so the fabric gives as you move and returns to shape. Eberjey Gisele pajamas are 95% LENZING™ TENCEL™ Modal and 5% elastane.
How far can spandex stretch?
Spandex can stretch to roughly 500 percent of its length and return almost to its original size and shape.
Can you use bleach on fabric with elastane?
Avoid chlorine bleach. It should not be used on fabrics containing spandex, and the Gisele, Frida and Dream Rib care labels allow only non-chlorine bleach when needed.
Can you put elastane in the dryer?
Only as the care label allows. Eberjey Gisele and Cozy Time say tumble dry low, Dream Rib says dry flat, and Soft Stretch Recycled Lace says line dry.
Why does one label say spandex and another say elastane?
They are two names for the same fiber. For example, Eberjey describes the Frida set as TENCEL™ Modal with a touch of spandex, and its care label lists 5% elastane.
Sources
- Cornell Law School LII, “16 CFR § 303.7 – Generic names and definitions for manufactured fibers” (FTC)
- Regulation (EU) No 1007/2011 on textile fibre names, Annex I (legislation.gov.uk)
- Museum of Fine Arts, Boston CAMEO, “Spandex fiber”
- Encyclopedia.com, “Spandex” (from How Products Are Made)
- Texas A&M AgriLife Extension, “Quick Stain Removal Guide”
- University of Kentucky Cooperative Extension, “Stain Removal for Washable Fabrics” (H.E. 2-840)
