Modal Fabric Explained: What It Is, How It Feels and How It Compares
What modal fabric is, how it is made from beech wood, why it feels so soft, and how it compares with cotton, viscose and Tencel, from a textile engineer.
The short answer
Modal is a soft, smooth fibre made from beech wood cellulose. It belongs to the same family as viscose (rayon), but it is processed to be stronger, especially when wet, so it holds its shape and softness better after washing. It is popular for underwear, pyjamas and T-shirts because it drapes well, feels cool and resists shrinking more than cotton.
I have spent more than 14 years dyeing and developing fabrics, including many modal and modal-blend knits. Here is what modal is really like to wear and care for.
How modal is made
Modal is a regenerated cellulose fibre. Wood pulp, usually from beech trees, is dissolved and then extruded through tiny holes to form filaments, which are cut and spun into yarn. The fibre is natural in origin (it comes from wood) but manufactured, so it sits between natural fibres such as cotton and synthetics such as polyester.
The best-known branded modal is TENCEL™ Modal from Lenzing in Austria, which is made from certified wood sources with a more controlled process. Generic modal varies more in quality.
Why modal feels so good
- Very soft and smooth. The fibres are fine and have a smooth surface, so modal feels silky against the skin.
- Cool and absorbent. Modal absorbs moisture better than cotton, which helps in warm weather and for sleepwear.
- Drapes well. Modal knits hang softly and do not cling.
- Holds its colour. Modal takes dye very evenly. In the dye house it gives deep, bright shades that stay clear after washing.
- Resists shrinking and pilling. Better than standard viscose and often better than cotton.
Modal vs cotton, viscose and Tencel lyocell
| Fibre | Softness | Moisture handling | Strength when wet | Shrinkage | Typical use |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Modal | Very soft, smooth | Very good | Good | Low | Underwear, pyjamas, T-shirts |
| Cotton | Soft, matte | Good, dries slowly | Very good | Medium | Everything |
| Viscose (rayon) | Soft, drapey | Very good | Weak | High | Dresses, blouses |
| Tencel lyocell | Smooth, cool | Very good | Very good | Low | Shirts, denim, bedding |
Modal is very often blended with cotton (for structure) or elastane (for stretch). A 50/50 cotton-modal is a good everyday blend; 92–95% modal with 5–8% elastane is the classic soft-knit underwear fabric.
Schiesser Women's Cotton-Modal Long Pyjama Set
- 50% modal, 50% cotton
- Machine washable
Best everyday modal pyjamas
Check price on Amazon AU Price & availability shown on Amazon.com.auCALIDA Elegant Dreams Women's Short Pyjamas
- 95% TENCEL Modal, 5% elastane
- Machine washable
Softest modal sleepwear
Check price on Amazon AU Price & availability shown on Amazon.com.auHow to care for modal
Wash at 30 °C on a gentle cycle, inside out, with a mild detergent. Skip fabric softener, which coats the fibre and can reduce absorbency. Line dry or tumble dry on low; high heat is what shortens the life of modal-elastane blends.
Frequently asked questions
Is modal better than cotton?
For softness, drape and resisting shrinkage, yes. Cotton is tougher, more breathable in loose weaves and usually cheaper. For underwear and sleepwear, many people prefer modal or a cotton-modal blend.
Is modal a natural fibre?
It comes from natural wood cellulose but is manufactured, so it is called a regenerated or semi-synthetic fibre.
Does modal pill?
Less than standard viscose and many cottons, but any knit can pill with friction. See our guide on why clothes pill.
Is modal good for hot weather?
Yes. It absorbs moisture well and feels cool. For the hottest days, compare it with linen and Tencel lyocell.