Modal fabric is made from wood pulp, however it is made using a different process to Tencel. They both use 'closed loop' production process making Modal very sustainable. Modal shares a lot of similarities with Lyocell when it comes to softness, comfort, breathability and moisture absorption. Modal is very soft in feel, and it is often turned into quite light and dinner fabrics, whereas Tencel is usually used for much heavier weight fabrics.
How does Modal affect the environment?
Modal fibres are mainly manufactured from Beech wood, sourced from sustainable forests.. The production process involves renewable energy, and the recovery of process chemicals (through closed loop processing). Modal is about fifty percent more water-absorbent per unit volume than cotton. Therefore, Modal is an eco-friendly choice. Furthermore, you can recover up to 95% of Modal’s production materials. It’s dyes just like cotton furthermore, textiles made from modal are resistant to shrinkage and fading.
Why choose modal?
Modal is much softer than cotton. It absorbs moisture well, does not wrinkle and it is breathable. The fabric dries fairly quick and does not lose its shape. Modal fabric is mainly used for sportswear and undergarments.
Advantages of using Modal:
Breathable: Modal fabric is one of the most breathable textile soput in the market currently;making modal fabric an ideal choice for activewear.
Flexible: This fabric is very stretchy which easily fits on any body shape.
Higher Absorption: Modal fabric has a 50% higher absorption rate than cotton which makes it a better option.
Good for Dyeing: The textures structure makes dyes absorb extremely well; as a result, it is safer to use for dyeing and also easier to wash.
Disadvantages of using Modal:
Prone to Allergies: Wearing a garment made out of modal fabric can cause allergic reactionsfor some people.
Durability: Whilst the material is flexible, its stretch ability can also render the garment unusable by ruining the original structure; as well as, these clothes are more prone to wear and tear.
Less Heat Retention: This fabric cannot retain much heat inside.
High Cost: Even though their production is a lot more cost-effective than other fabrics, the consumer cost is higher than cotton and viscose.