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Modal is a regenerated cellulose fiber, usually made from beech wood pulp. It belongs to the same family as viscose (rayon) and lyocell. It is known for a very soft, smooth, cool feel and a beautiful drape, which is why it is popular for underwear, T-shirts, loungewear and pajamas.
I have dyed and finished a great deal of cellulose fabric in 14+ years in textile processing, and modal is one of the easiest to make look rich. Here is what it is and how it behaves.
How modal is made
Wood pulp is dissolved with chemicals into a thick solution and pushed through tiny holes into a bath where it solidifies into filaments. That is the viscose process. Modal is made with a modified version of it that stretches and aligns the fibers more, giving a stronger fiber, especially when wet. Because the fiber starts as wood but is chemically regenerated, modal is not a natural fiber like cotton and not a synthetic like polyester. It sits in between.
Modal vs cotton vs viscose vs lyocell
| Modal | Cotton | Viscose (rayon) | Lyocell (Tencel) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Source | Beech wood pulp | Cotton plant | Wood pulp | Wood pulp |
| Feel | Very soft, silky, cool | Soft, matte | Soft, smooth | Soft, smooth, cool |
| Drape | Excellent | Moderate | Excellent | Very good |
| Wet strength | Good | Good (stronger wet) | Weak when wet | Very good |
| Shrinkage | Low to moderate | Moderate | High | Low to moderate |
| Moisture absorption | High | High | High | High |
| Pilling | Low to moderate | Low to moderate | Moderate | Low; can fibrillate |
Pros of modal
- Softness: modal is one of the softest fabrics against the skin.
- Drape: it hangs and moves fluidly.
- Color: it absorbs dye well and holds deep, bright shades.
- Absorbency: it takes up moisture readily, so it feels cool and fresh.
- Shape: it resists shrinking better than viscose.
Cons of modal
- Heat sensitivity: high dryer heat can still shrink or distort it.
- Stretch: pure modal jersey can grow out of shape, so it is often blended with spandex.
- Warmth: it is cool and light, not ideal for warm winter layers.
- Environment: it depends on the producer. Some brands use closed-loop processes and certified wood; generic modal may not.
How to wash modal
- Turn the garment inside out.
- Wash on a gentle cycle in cool or warm water, not hot.
- Use a mild detergent; skip bleach.
- Line dry or tumble dry on low, and remove promptly.
- If needed, iron on a low to medium setting.
For how heat affects fabrics like modal and cotton, see will clothes shrink in the dryer? on our sister site. Comparing cottons instead? Read Egyptian vs Pima vs Supima cotton.
Frequently asked questions
No. It is made from natural wood pulp but chemically regenerated, so it is called a semi-synthetic or regenerated cellulose fiber. It is softer and drapes better, and absorbs moisture well. Cotton is usually more durable, cheaper and easier to care for. Less than viscose, but it can shrink in hot water or a hot dryer. Wash cool and dry on low. Yes. It feels cool, absorbs moisture and breathes well, which makes it comfortable in heat.Is modal a natural fabric?
Is modal better than cotton?
Does modal shrink?
Is modal good for hot weather?