Modal vs. Micromodal Showdown: The Fabric Feud

July 6, 2023

When it comes to choosing the right fabric for clothing, two popular options that often come up are modal vs. micromodal. While we all know Bamboo reigns as king for underwear, we'll indulge some of the most popular questions for modal and micromodal fabric in this article:

What is Modal Fabric?

Modal fabric manufacturers produce it by deriving cellulose fibers from beech trees, making it a type of textile falling under the category of rayon.

The production process of modal fabric involves treating the beech wood pulp with chemicals, such as sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide, to create a viscose solution. Spinnerets force this solution through, forming fibers that undergo subsequent chemical treatment and spinning into yarns. We then weave or knit these yarns into various fabrics.

Is modal natural or synthetic?

Modal is considered semi-synthetic. While it originates from plants such as bamboo or beech trees, the process of transforming wood pulp into modal fibers and yarn necessitates the use of certain chemicals.

Is modal the same as MicroModal?

No. Modal and micro modal fabric is different from one another. However, they do have the same origin: beech trees. Micro modal fibers are different in a few ways, namely that the fibers are much finer and thinner due to the fabric using a finer ground cellulosic fiber.

Let's look at how these two fabrics stack up against each other: Modal vs. micromodal fabric:

Modal vs. Micromodal Fabric

Modal fabrics offer several advantages. Firstly, they have the ability to drape and hang exceptionally well. Additionally, modal fabrics have resistance to wrinkling, ensuring a smooth appearance without any empty areas. Furthermore, modal is remarkably absorbent, being 50% more absorbent than cotton. Its micro pockets enable it to efficiently absorb sweat or water, keeping you dry.

MicroModal fabric is renowned for its exceptional softness, often likened to silk. Not only is it soft, but it also maintains its softness even after numerous washes and wears due to its high durability. The fabric strikes a balance between breathability and a snug fit, allowing it to absorb moisture while keeping you comfortable. When combined with the right amount of elastane, MicroModal fabric retains its shape and elasticity. Additionally, the beech fibers present in MicroModal help the fabric retain its vibrant color, even after multiple washes.

Bamboo vs. Modal and Micromodal Fabric

It's true that modal and micro modal is making a splash in the textile industry. However, Bamboo still wins the battle for the best fabric for underwear! Modal and micromodal fabric have a few distinct disadvantages, which puts them firmly below Bamboo fabric when it comes to fabric for underwear.

What are the disadvantages of modal fabric?

However, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Modal fabric is susceptible to issues such as piling and stretching. To avoid these problems, it is recommended to hand wash your underwear. Additionally, modal fabric doesn't retain body heat well, which may not be ideal if you prefer extra warmth.

Furthermore, prolonged exposure to excessive heat can cause modal fabric to turn yellow. It also has the potential for allergic reactions in humans. Modal fabric often triggers negative responses in individuals, leading to allergic symptoms such as itchiness, rashes, redness, and, in severe instances, the formation of skin blisters.

Is modal as healthy as cotton?

Modal is the “healthier” option between the two. For health, I looked at two distinct categories to determine which one is healthier. Firstly, the environmental impact of producing modal compared to cotton, and secondly the health for human use (i..e allergies and sensitivities). This is what I found:

Environmental Impact

Compared to conventional cotton, people consider modal to be more environmentally friendly. The production process of modal requires less land, water, and chemicals. Furthermore, sustainable beech wood sources often serve as the production material for modal, while conventional cotton cultivation can cause a significant environmental impact through water consumption, pesticide use, and genetic modification.

Human Health Cotton vs. Modal

Both modal and cotton are typically hypoallergenic and suitable for individuals with sensitive skin. However, some people may have specific sensitivities to certain fabrics, so it's always advisable to test a fabric against your skin if you have known allergies.

This article outlined some of the most asked questions about modal vs. micromodal fabric. Read more fabric-related fables in some of our previous posts: