Does Modal Fabric Shrink? (All You Need to Know)

Modal fabric is a popular semi-synthetic textile made from beech tree pulp that offers incredible softness, breathability, and durability. Modal fabrics are eco-friendly and sustainable, making them an ideal choice for conscious consumers who want to invest in high-quality, versatile textiles. However, does modal fabric shrink? Here is everything you need to know about modal fabrics.

Modal fabric is a rayon fabric known for its softness, high absorbency, and breathability. It comes from the pulp of beech trees, which are sustainably sourced and grown in Europe. Modal is an eco-friendly fabric due to its biodegradability and low environmental impact.

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As you can read from the above text, the modal fabric is a type of rayon made from the cellulose of beech trees. It is mainly known for its softness, durability, and moisture-wicking properties. Modal fabric often works well in clothing such as pajamas, underwear, and active-wear because of its ability to absorb moisture and remain breathable. It is also eco-friendly as it is made from renewable resources and requires less water and energy to produce the fabric.

The manufacturing process of modal involves spinning the pulp into fibers, which are then woven or knit into fabric. One of the unique characteristics of modal fabric is its ability to hold dye well, resulting in vibrant and long-lasting colors. Modal is also resistant to shrinking and pilling, making it a durable choice for clothing and home textiles. In recent years, modal has become increasingly popular in the fashion industry due to its luxurious feel and versatility in various garment types, from underwear and active-wear to dresses and blouses.

Yes, the modal fabric can shrink like other fabrics when you handle it poorly. The modal fabric can shrink when in contact with high heat or agitation during washing and drying. Modal fabric comes from natural fibers such as beech tree pulp, which can shrink when subjected to high temperatures or mechanical stress.

Modal fabrics have several advantages, and below are reasons why you should consider using modal textiles.

Softness: Modal fabrics are incredibly soft and luxurious, thus making them a safe choice for active-wear, loungewear, and bedding.
Moisture-wicking: Modal fabrics have excellent moisture-wicking properties, which means they can absorb sweat and moisture away from the skin, keeping you dry and comfortable.
Breathability: Modal fabrics are highly breathable, which can help regulate body temperature and prevent overheating. The breathability properties in modal make them ideal for summer clothing and sleepwear.
Odor resistant: Modal fabrics are one of the best odor-resistant textiles because tight woven fabrics prevent the textile from retaining dirt.
Durability: Despite their delicate feel, modal fabrics are surprisingly durable and resistant to wear and tear. They also hold up well over time and maintain their softness after many washes.
Wrinkle resistant: Modal fabrics have a flexible texture, thus making them less prone to wrinkles and ideal material for creating a drape effect.
Eco-friendliness: Modal fabrics are eco-friendly because they come from sustainably sourced beech trees, which require less water and pesticides than other crops. Additionally, turning beech tree pulp into modal fabric is done in a closed-loop system, which minimizes waste and pollution.
Washing machine friendly: Modal fabrics are rigid because of their fibrous texture. You can use a washing machine to clean them before drying them in low temperatures to prevent damage to the modal fabric.

Modal fabrics can shrink if you do not handle them well when washing. A high-quality modal fabric has a 1% - 10% shrinkage rate when you subject the textile material to high temperatures. You can follow the guide below to properly wash and handle modal fabrics to prevent the textile material from shrinking.

Step 1: Read the care label on your modal fabric item to ensure you can clean it at home. Modal is generally machine-washable, but there may be specific instructions for temperature or cycle.

Step 2: Turn the modal apparel inside out before washing to protect any printed or delicate areas on the textile material.

Step 3: Use cold water and a gentle cycle setting to wash modal fabrics. Avoid using hot water or high heat settings as they can damage the fibers. Ensure you only subject the modal fabric to temperatures lower than 40°C (104°F).

Step 4: Use a mild detergent (specifically designed for delicate fabrics) when washing modal fabrics. Avoid using bleach or fabric softeners which can cause damage to the modal fabric.

Step 5: Once the wash cycle is complete, remove the item from the washing machine immediately to prevent wrinkles.

Step 6: Dry modal items on low heat in the dryer or hang them to air-dry. Again, avoid using high heat settings as they can damage the fibers.

Step 7: Iron modal fabrics on a low heat setting while still slightly damp to remove any wrinkles. You can use a pressing cloth to protect the tight-knit fabric and avoid ironing directly onto any prints or embellishments.

Step 8: Store your cleaned modal item in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture or mildew buildup.

Follow the simple steps above to help you maintain and clean your modal fabric items, keeping them looking their best for longer.

Hand-washing modal fabric is generally considered safe, but there are a few things to keep in mind to prevent shrinkage.

Use cool or lukewarm water: Hot water can cause the fibers in modal fabric to contract and shrink.
Use a gentle detergent: Avoid harsh detergents or bleach, which can damage the fabric and cause shrinkage.
Do not wring or twist: Gently squeeze out excess water and lay the garment flat to dry. Avoid twisting or wringing the fabric, which can cause it to become misshapen and shrink.

Following the above tips should help minimize any risk of shrinkage when hand-washing modal fabric. However, it's always a good idea to check the care label on the garment for specific instructions before washing.

Concussion

Modal fabric is popular due to its softness, durability, and sustainability. However, the modal textile is prone to shrinkage when exposed to high temperatures or improper washing techniques. It is essential to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer and avoid exposing the fabric to extreme conditions.