What Is Modal Fabric and Is It Eco-friendly?

Modal fabric was originally developed to imitate the feel of cotton. Modal is a type of rayon that is considered an upgrade to viscose rayon. It is known for its silky texture and durability.

Modal is considered a semi-natural and semi-synthetic fabric, because although it is a plant-based material (it can be made from bamboo or beech trees), it still requires chemicals to convert the wood pulp to modal fibers and yarn.

Because of its moisture-management properties, modal fabric is mainly used for activewear, undergarments and sometimes bed sheets.

The manufacturing process for modal fabric is more eco-friendly when compared to the production process for other rayon fabrics, but it is similar.

Here's a breakdown of the production process:

Even though modal fabric is sourced using plants, the production process still uses dyes and chemicals. For instance, exposure to carbon disulfide is known to be hazardous, especially in the workplace. Studies also have shown adverse health effects to animals that have long-term inhalation exposure.

In 1977, Lenzing began using an eco-friendly bleaching method for its cellulosic fibers. The process is less toxic, reuses the chemicals and sources beech trees from forests that are FSC or PEFC accredited. Lenzing trademarked its modal fabric as TENCEL Modal®.

Modal can also be given the green light as a more eco-friendly alternative to other fabrics, however, especially if it is made from sustainably sourced wood. This means the textile manufacturers must use trees planted explicitly for modal fabric, and it's even better if they're on land not suitable for any other agricultural growth. But because modal fabric has become so popular, not all companies use trees planted specifically for this purpose.

But when compared to cotton, the modal fabric manufacturing process uses between 10 and 20 times less water because beech trees need less water than cotton.

As we mentioned, modal is a type of rayon that has a super-soft, silky texture. Modal fibers also are extremely flexible and lightweight, so the fabric is ideal for clothes that fit close to the skin.

Modal resists wrinkles and shrinkage, and can regulate moisture and minimize odor. Modal is long-lasting and the fabric resists pilling, fading and creasing.

Modal isn't perfect, though. As we mentioned, the production process does use toxic chemicals, and there's no guarantee the trees harvested are from sustainable forests.

One con is that modal fabrics can be more expensive than their comparable counterparts, namely cotton. Modal fabric does have a reputation for staying softer longer than cotton and wicking away moisture more effectively, but it is not considered as breathable.

Although modal fabric is a soft material, it can be washed and dried in the machine, but always pay attention to the manufacturer's care guidelines on the label. Some experts say it can be cleansed at any temperature, but cold water on the gentle cycle is the optimal choice.

Use a mild detergent and an oxygen-based bleach, as chlorine bleach can be too harsh. More delicate clothing can be laundered in a mesh bag for added protection.

Dry using low or medium heat and remove items from the dryer with just a little dampness to help eliminate wrinkles.