What is modal?

Modal, also better known as artificial silk, is a textile fabric made from wood pulp. It was originally developed to replicate as closely as possible the versatility of cotton. Expectations were exceeded, as the result was a strong, elastic fiber that absorbs 50% more moisture than cotton. In addition, it holds color faster, requiring less energy and dyes. Not surprisingly, modal fabric has been used in a variety of garments.

What kind of fabric is modal?

Modal is a so-called semi-synthetic textile fiber, which means it contains both natural and man-made elements. It consists of cellulose extracted from wood pulp from sustainably grown beech trees. This makes the production process more environmentally friendly compared to other viscose fibers. First, the wood pulp is put into a chemical mixture, creating a thick liquid. That liquid is squeezed through small holes to make long, thin threads. The threads are then cleaned and dried to make into yarn. Eventually, this yarn is used to make fabric, such as by weaving or knitting, so it can be used to make clothing.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of modal?

The most notable feature of modal is that it feels silky soft on the skin. This makes it ideal for garments such as men's socks, jerseys and T-shirts. Moreover, the fibers have an open structure that makes the fabric breathe well. Thus, you won't sweat so easily from modal fabric and it doesn't feel sticky. In addition, modal fabric is highly resistant to shrinking and the colors are retained well. As a result, modal garments last a long time. On the other hand, modal stretches faster. Moreover, it is susceptible to creasing and heat. Thus, it is advisable to wash these types of garments at low temperatures and avoid the dryer. Pay special attention to the instructions on the label before putting it in the wash.