Modal – «viscose of a new generation», soft and breathable

Modal is a next-generation textile material. It is produced through deep processing of cellulose from beech wood. This fabric is of natural origin, but thanks to a special processing technology, it has improved characteristics that traditional viscose does not possess.

Composition and properties

Modal is distinguished by its high cellulose purity, which ensures stability and uniformity of fiber structure. During production, a special wet spinning technology is applied. As a result, the threads are smooth, strong, and at the same time elastic. This makes it possible to create fabrics with a characteristic silky surface and a pleasant cool touch.

The key properties of modal are:

• high hygroscopicity – it absorbs moisture almost one and a half times better than cotton, while drying quickly and not creating a damp feeling;
• colorfastness – dyes are firmly fixed within the fiber structure, which allows modal products to retain their rich color for a long time and resist fading in the sun;
• hypoallergenic – comfortable for sensitive skin;
• softness and silkiness – very delicate to the touch, comparable to natural silk or premium-quality cotton;
• breathability – «breathes», providing comfort in hot weather and preventing body overheating;
• resistance to deformation – does not shrink after washing, does not twist, and retains the shape of products well.

Modal is machine-washable, dries quickly, does not require complex ironing, and needs no special storage conditions.

Application of modal in textiles

Modal is often called «viscose of a new generation». The areas of application of this material are very wide.

Clothing

It is used for:

• T-shirts;
• blouses;
• dresses;
• underwear;
• loungewear.

Thanks to its soft and silky texture, the fabric feels pleasant against the skin. Its high breathability makes it ideal for everyday use at any time of year.

Home textiles

Bed sheets, pillowcases, duvet covers, towels, and bathrobes made of this material are especially gentle and durable. They do not lose their shape after multiple washes, maintain a fresh look for a long time, and remain pleasant to the touch. Modal bed linen is considered one of the most comfortable and practical options for daily use.

Blends with other materials

In combination with cotton, modal makes products even softer and more resistant to deformation. Blended with polyester, it increases the strength and durability of textiles. Such blends are used for sportswear, casual clothing, and home textiles, offering an optimal balance of naturalness and functionality.

Thus, modal has become a universal material, in demand both in the fashion industry and in home textiles. It successfully combines aesthetics, comfort, and practicality, which ensures its growing popularity in modern production.

Modal or cotton

Modal and cotton are often compared, as both materials are associated with comfort, softness, and naturalness. But there are important differences that determine the choice between the two.

Cotton is a completely natural plant fiber, known for its hygroscopicity and softness. It absorbs moisture well, allows the skin to breathe, and is suitable for everyday clothing and home textiles. However, cotton has drawbacks – it can shrink after washing, dries slowly, loses color brightness over time, and is prone to wear.

Modal is a type of viscose fiber made from wood cellulose (usually beech). Unlike cotton, modal is stronger, holds its shape and color better even after numerous washes. It is lighter and smoother to the touch, and dries faster. Modal is considered a more modern material, combining a natural base with the benefits of technological processing.

At first glance, these fabrics are similar. Both breathe, both are soft and pleasant to the body. However, modal absorbs moisture almost 50% better than cotton, which makes it more comfortable in hot weather or with an active lifestyle. In addition, cotton products may become rougher and lose their shape over time, while modal retains its silkiness and neat appearance even after many washes.

Modal or classic viscose

Modal and classic viscose are related materials, but their properties and applications differ significantly. Both are produced from cellulose, but the processing technology makes modal an «improved» version of viscose.

Classic viscose:

• Made from regenerated cellulose (usually wood).
• Known for its softness, smoothness, and beautiful sheen.
• Absorbs moisture well and «breathes», making viscose clothing comfortable for the body.

Drawbacks – low durability, wrinkles easily, loses strength when wet, requires delicate care.

Modal:

• Also made from cellulose, but using a more advanced technology (often from beech).
• Stronger than classic viscose and more resistant to wear.
• Retains shape and color brightness even after multiple washes.
• Dries faster, less prone to shrinkage and deformation.
• Feels softer and more silky than ordinary viscose.

Modal is suitable for items that are frequently washed (bed linen, everyday clothing), while viscose is more valued for festive and decorative fabrics.

Thus, modal can be called the «viscose of a new generation» – it combines all the advantages of a natural base but is free from most of the weaknesses of classic viscose.

If cotton is tradition, and viscose is an affordable alternative, then modal has become their harmonious continuation. It combines naturalness, comfort, and durability, making it a universal solution for modern textiles.

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