What is Modal Fabric

Modal fabric is a semi-synthetic fabric made from beech tree pulp that is used primarily for clothing, such as underwear and pajamas, and household items, like bed sheets and towels. Modal is a form of rayon, another plant-based textile, though it is slightly more durable and flexible than the standard version. Modal is often blended with other fibers like cotton and spandex for added strength. Modal is considered a luxurious textile thanks to both its soft feel and high cost, as it is more expensive than either cotton or viscose.

Modal was originally developed in Japan in the 1950s. Today, most modal is produced by the Austrian company Lenzing AG, which has the trademark for the fabric; its brands include Lenzing Modal, China Modal, and Formatex. There are even lighter versions of the material dubbed MicroModal and Modal Air by Lenzing. These versions are even finer knit than standard modal and make the end product softer, therefore items made from these fabrics are considered even more luxurious.

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How Is Modal Fabric Manufactured?

Modal fabric is a bio-based fabric that is made from spinning reconstituted beech tree cellulose. Modal is generally considered a more eco-friendly alternative to cotton because beech trees don’t require much water to grow and therefore the production process uses about 10-20 times less water.

Even though the material is plant-derived, the production process includes soaking the fabric in chemicals like sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfate, which in turn classify modal as semi-synthetic. Modal is a type of rayon fabric, but it is generally more durable than regular rayon and feels softer, like cotton.

Benefits to Using and Wearing Modal Fabric

Modal is considered a luxury textile and is often used to blend with other fabrics to give a high-end feel with its lightness and softness. It has become very popular among eco-conscious fashion designers.

Stretchy. Modal’s flexibility makes it ideal for items like t-shirts and athletic wear.
Soft. Modal l has an incredible soft touch, and is often used for bed sheets,pajamas and undergarments.
Breathable. Modal is great for sports clothing and everyday clothes because the fabric’s weave is very breathable.
Water absorbent. Modal is 50% more absorbent than cotton; micropores inside the fabric absorb any water or sweat they come into contact with.
Durable. Modal is very strong because of the tight weave and the long fibers and is therefore used for garments and housewares that receive regular use.
Drapes well. Similar to rayon and other silk alternatives, modal has a beautiful drape that makes it ideal for clothing and decoration.
Eco-friendly. Modal is made from regenerative plants and there are fewer chemicals used in the production process than with other types of rayon.
Doesn’t pill. The fabric resists pilling and has a smooth finish that makes it ideal for everyday wear and use.
Color fast. The fabric absorbs dye in warm water and does not bleed dye during the laundering process.
Doesn’t shrink. Unlike most forms of rayon, modal is much less likely to shrink in the wash.
Biodegradable. Modal is completely biodegradable.
Doesn’t crease. Modal resists wrinkles and will stay smooth with minimal ironing.

Q & A

Question :Is modal as breathable as cotton?
Answer : Modal underwear is also often blended with a stretch fiber, as well as cotton, but it stays breathable. Modal is up to 50 percent more absorbent than cotton, so clothes never feel sweaty and sticky.
Question : Is modal good for your skin?
Answer : In our opinion, modal is the best fabric for eczema. Modal is 50% more absorbent than cotton. It's lightweight, breathable and cool to the touch. The fiber strength of modal makes it extremely durable and able to withstand wash after wash.
Question : Does modal shrink in dryer?
Answer : The word "modal" might sound exotic, but it's simply a type of rayon fabric that is made specifically from the fibers of the beech tree. While some rayons shrink or stretch when wet, modal retains its shape and can be washed and dried by machine.
Question : Is modal better than polyester?
Answer : Use in Undergarments. Its silky texture also makes it comfortable for close-fitting intimate wear. ... Unlike garments made from synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester, Modal underwear does not trap perspiration and odors. Modal is up to 50 percent more absorbent than cotton, so clothes never feel sweaty and sticky.
Question : Does modal make you sweat?
Answer : Modal fabric is extremely hard-wearing and keeps its shape and finish, even after frequent washing. ... Unlike garments made from synthetic fibers like nylon and polyester, Modal underwear does not trap perspiration and odors. Modal is up to 50 percent more absorbent than cotton, so clothes never feel sweaty and sticky.