What Type Of Fabric Is Modal?

What Are The Types?

Modal rayon is one variant of rayon, and while it’s unique in its own right, it’s important to distinguish it from other members of the rayon family due to their similarities. Here are some related types of rayon:

• Viscose Rayon: Viscose rayon was the initial mass-produced form of rayon, preceding modal. The viscose process simplified rayon production but involves more complex chemical treatments than modal. This complexity can have environmental and worker safety implications. Some factories have transitioned to more advanced rayon types, but viscose rayon is still in production.
• Lyocell: Lyocell is another rayon derivative with distinct advantages. It’s the only rayon type considered purely organic because it doesn’t undergo chemical alteration during production, relying on pure tree fibers. The lyocell production process utilizes a closed-loop solvent system, ensuring minimal chemical waste disposal. Lenzing AG, an Austrian corporation, is a prominent producer of lyocell worldwide.

These variations within the rayon family offer different properties and environmental impacts, making it essential to differentiate modal rayon from its counterparts.

Properties Of Modal Fabric

• Elasticity: Modal fabric is stretchy, making it suitable for t-shirts, athletic wear, and underwear.
• Softness: It has a remarkably soft touch, often used for bed sheets, pajamas, and undergarments.
• Breathability: Modal’s weave is highly breathable, making it great for sports and everyday clothing.
• Absorbency: It is 50% more absorbent than cotton, effectively absorbing water and sweat.
• Durability: Modal is strong due to tight weaving and long fibers, making it ideal for regular use in garments and housewares.
• Drape: Modal has a beautiful drape, making it suitable for clothing and decoration.
• Eco-friendliness: Made from regenerative plants, Modal produces fewer chemicals than other rayon types.
• Pilling Resistance: Modal resists pilling, maintaining a smooth finish for everyday wear.
• Color Fastness: It absorbs dye without bleeding during laundering in warm water.
• Shrink Resistance: Modal is less likely to shrink in the wash than most rayon fabrics.
• Biodegradability: Modal is completely biodegradable, reducing environmental impact.
• Wrinkle Resistance: Modal resists wrinkles and stays smooth with minimal ironing.

The Downsides

• Discoloration with Heat: Modal, a plant-based synthetic textile, can turn yellow when exposed to high heat, potentially affecting its appearance.
• Allergic Reactions: Some individuals may experience allergic reactions to fabric, leading to symptoms like itching, rashes, redness, and, in severe cases, skin blistering.
• Higher Cost: Modal is relatively expensive compared to fabrics like viscose or cotton despite its lower production costs. The consumer price of modal fabric tends to be on the higher side.

Is Modal Fabric Eco-Friendly?

Modal fabric is relatively more eco-friendly than some rayon types due to its lower use of caustic soda during production. However, the manufacturing process still involves carbon disulfide, a toxic substance harmful to the environment and workers. Efforts have been made to mitigate its impact, such as installing chemical scrubbers and using absorption machines. Additionally, sustainability depends on cellulose sourcing practices, with some rayon manufacturers using trees from less fertile land, like bamboo. Still, significant waste occurs as only cellulose is used, and the rest of the tree material is discarded.

FAQs

1. What Is Micromodal Fabric?

Micromodal fabric is a rayon fabric known for its exceptional smooth texture and comfort. It is composed of a variant of modal rayon, a semi-synthetic cellulose fiber derived from beechwood trees. The “micro” in Micromodal refers to the fineness of the fibers used in its production, which are finer than those used in standard modal fabrics. This results in a fabric that is incredibly soft, lightweight, and comfortable to wear. Due to its premium qualities, Micromodal is often used in high-end fashion and intimate apparel.

2. Does Modal Fabric Shrink?

Modal fabric is known for its resistance to shrinking, unlike other fabrics, particularly rayon, which can lose shape or shrink when laundered. Modal typically maintains its size and shape, offering greater durability and ease of care for clothing made from this material.

3. How To Care For Modal Fabric?

Modal fabric is generally washing machine-friendly, but it’s wise to check care labels, especially for modal blends. Cold water is recommended for washing, and avoid using chlorine bleach, as it can weaken the fabric. When drying, opt for low to medium heat and promptly remove items to prevent wrinkles, hanging them up immediately if necessary. Dry cleaning is usually unnecessary for pure modal, distinguishing it from other rayon fabrics.

Conclusion

Modal fabric is a versatile textile known for its luxurious softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking properties. It stands out for its comfort and eco-friendliness, as it involves a more environmentally conscious manufacturing process than other rayon types.

If you want to bring your fashion ideas to life with modal fabric or other textiles, consider partnering with a custom clothing manufacturer like Arcus Apparel. They offer comprehensive services, including cut and sew production, apparel development, and production management, ensuring a seamless journey from fabric sourcing to delivering a finished high-quality product.

Whether you’re a designer or entrepreneur, such collaborations can help bring your clothing designs to the market with expertise and efficiency.