Does Modal Fabric Shrink (How To Shrink Modal)

Are you curious about whether modal fabric shrinks? You’re in the right place! Modal is a type of fabric that is known for its soft, silky feel and its ability to drape well, making it a popular choice for clothing and other textiles.

In general, the modal fabric has high resistance to shrinkage. It is also pretty low maintenance and easy to care for fabric. You can easily machine wash it with regular clothing and tumble dry it in the dryer. However, like any other fabric, the modal fabric may shrink if it is not properly cared for. The modal fabric can shrink by 1%-10% when exposing it to high heat. That’s why, usually, it is recommended to keep the temperature lower than 40°C (104°F) for modal fabric.

In this article, we will discuss the factors that can cause the modal fabric to shrink and how you can minimize shrinkage to keep your modal garments looking their best. So, let’s get started!

What Is Modal Fabric?

Modal is a fabric produced from the soft and floss-like fibers of beech trees. The process for creating modal fabric is consist of, firstly grinding the wood into small chips and after that soaking the wood chips in a solution of sodium hydroxide (also known as caustic soda). The sodium hydroxide solution breaks down the wood chips into their individual cellulose fibers. This chemical process is called dissolving pulp.

After the fibers have been spun, they are dried and then soaked in a solution of sulfuric acid to remove any impurities. The fibers are then formed into a fabric using a process called wet laying, in which the fibers are mixed with water and then pressed onto a moving belt to form a web. The web is then dried and pressed to create the final fabric.

Finally, the fabric is finished by washing, drying, and pressing it to give it the desired appearance and feel.

The word modal refers to a specific type of rayon. It’s a cotton-like fabric with an inherent sheen that can be obtained by adding another fiber to the cellulose. Modal fabric will shrink when you wash it, but if you pay attention, they have appropriate care instructions provided on the label. 

Why Choose Modal Fabric?

Modal is a type of rayon, however, it is a semi-synthetic fabric usually produced from beech tree cellulose. It has known for being silky smooth to the touch and for being able to retain vibrant colors. Here are some reasons, why the modal fabric is liked and chosen.

• Softness: Modal fabric is so very soft and comfortable to wear, it is frequently used in the production of lingerie and other types of intimate apparel.
• Drapability: Modal fabric has a natural drape and flow, which gives it a comfortable and relaxed fit.
• Absorbency: Modal fabric is highly absorbent. Modal fabric can absorb up to 50% of its weight in water, making it a good choice for clothing and bedding that may come into contact with sweat or moisture.
• Odor Resistant: Modal fabric is generally considered to be odor resistant, meaning that it does not retain odors and does not easily become soiled or stained. This is due to the fact, that modal fabric has a smooth, tightly-woven surface that is resistant to accumulating dirt and bacteria.
• Wrinkle-Resistant: Modal fabric is resistant to wrinkles, making it a good choice for clothing that needs to look smooth and crisp.
• Easy To Care: Modal fabric is easy to care for because it can be washed in the washing machine and dried in the dryer on a low heat setting. Additionally, it can be ironed.
• Environment Friendly: The use of modal fabric is an environmentally friendly and responsible option due to the fact that it is manufactured from resources that are both sustainable and renewable.

In short, modal fabric possesses a variety of benefits, some of which are its suppleness, draping ability, absorbency, durability, resistance to wrinkles, ease of care, and kindness to the environment. Because of these characteristics, especially due to its slight shimmer and wrinkle-resistant properties, it is a popular option for party dresses to sleepwear.

How Much Does Modal Fabric Shrink?

Modal fabric is well known for its capacity to resist shrinkage. Nevertheless, similar to other types of fabric, the modal fabric is still susceptible to 1%-10% of shrinkage if it is not properly cared for. It’s possible that certain variants of modal fabric are more susceptible to shrinkage than others. Modal fabric, in comparison to other types of fabric such as cotton or wool, seems to be less susceptible to the phenomenon of shrinkage.

The amount of shrinkage that modal fabric experiences will depend on a number of factors, including the specific type of modal fabric, the way it was processed, and how it is cared for. Usually, Modal is pretty resistant to shrinkage and low-maintenance fabric. The only thing you need to keep in mind is to avoid exposing the modal fabric to high temperatures, which should be no higher than 40°C (104°F).

Usually, on your first wash, you can get a decent idea if the fabric is going to shrink or not. However, in order to reduce the amount of shrinkage, it is essential to follow the recommendations on the care label provided by the manufacturer or store.

Does Modal Shrink Like Cotton?

Modal fabric and cotton are two different types of fabrics that have their own unique properties. Modal fabric is a type of rayon that is made from the cellulose of beech trees, while cotton is a natural fiber that is harvested from the cotton plant and that’s why modal and cotton have different shrinkage ratios.

Even if you wash the modal fabric at the highest temperature, they do not shrink like cotton. Cotton may experience shrinkage if it is washed in hot water or dried in a high-heat setting. Additionally, cotton may experience shrinkage if it is subjected to high-heat sources, such as irons or dryers.

In general, cotton is more prone to shrinkage as compared to modal usually cotton shrink twice more as modal. For example, if the modal is prone to 5% shrinkage in certain circumstances then cotton will shrink 10% under the same circumstances.

Does Modal Shrink When Washed?

Modal fabrics are very soft and highly breathable. They come in a variety of weights and styles, but does modal fabric shrink? The answer is no, modal fabric doesn’t shrink typically at all when washed.

Modal is a very stable fabric that does not shrink easily even after being put through the washing machine. On the other hand, in order to guarantee that the item is washed and dried appropriately, it is always a good idea to follow the care recommendations that are listed on the garment or item.

However, if you are still worried about shrinkage then it is best to wash it in cold water and dry it on low heat setting in the dryer. It is also essential to avoid using harsh detergents and bleach since they can weaken the fabric’s fibers and lead them to become less stable over time. This is why it is crucial to avoid using such products.

Overall, the modal will not shrink when it is washed, as long as it is cared for properly. However, it is always a good idea to check the care instructions on the garment or item to ensure that it is washed and dried in the most suitable way.

Tips for Washing Modal Fabrics

Some modal fabric does have a tendency to shrink when you wash it. However, this shrinkage is not due to the fabric itself but is caused by the dyes and chemicals used to color the fabric. You can even prevent the modal fabric from shrinking when washing it by sticking to the following tips.

• As a general rule, avoid exposing the modal fabric to heat, no higher than 40°C (104°F). 
• Wash modal garments inside out, to help protect the fabric from fading and damage. This will help to prevent any embellishments or prints from coming into contact with the washing machine drum or other garments.
• Fabric softeners can leave a residue on modal fabrics, which can affect their softness and drape. Instead, opt for a mild detergent that is specifically designed for delicate fabrics.
• If you want your garments to retain their original size, then you should first wash them at a lower temperature and then dry them in a dryer at low heat settings. 
• Be sure not to overload the washing machine, as this can cause the modal fabric to become stretched or damaged.
• Modal fabrics tend to dry quickly, so it is important not to over-dry them. Remove them from the dryer as soon as they dry. This will help to prevent the fabric from becoming stiff or losing its shape.
• If you have post-consumer recycled fibers in your modal fabric, they may shrink more than materials made of virgin fibers. There is a chance that washing the modal sheets with extremely hot water can cause shrinkage.

Does Modal Fabric Shrink In The Dryer?

In general, it is unlikely that the modal fabric will shrink in the dryer. Usually, it is advisable to dry the modal fabric on a low heat setting or hang it to dry. However, it is always a good idea to check the care instructions on the garment or item to ensure that it is dried in the most suitable way

Modal fabrics are generally produced in China and Japan, but they are now produced in many other parts of the world as well. So, you do not have to worry about modal fabric shrinking in the dryer because all modern-day modal fabrics are designed to prevent shrinkage. However, there are certain factors that could possibly cause the Modal fabric to shrink. For example, exposure to high temperature that is more than 40°C (104°F).

Usually, fabrics that are made from the wood pulp of spruce, hemlock, and pine trees have a tendency to absorb a lot of moisture. Therefore, they are less likely to shrink than fabrics made from cotton or wool.

In short, modal is a very stable fabric that is resistant to shrinking when it is washed or dried, even if they are dried in the dryer. It is unlikely that the modal fabric will shrink at all in the dryer unless it is exposed to high heat. Also, it is important to remove modal fabric from the dryer as soon as it drys so that it will not become over-dry and cause the fabric to shrink.

What Is Micro Modal Fabric?

Micro modal is a type of fabric that is made from very fine, high-quality fibers of modal, a type of cellulose fiber that is derived from the beech tree. Micro Modal fabric is frequently used in the manufacturing of garments, bedding, and other home textiles due to its desirable softness, drape, and ability to hold its shape.

Micro modal is 100% biodegradable. It is often used for garments that need to be extremely comfortable and breathable because it is finer, softer, and lighter than conventional modal fabric. It doesn’t fade, doesn’t shrink, and doesn’t pill, so its durability is another selling point.

Micro modal is a versatile fabric that can be used for a variety of garments and household items. T-shirts, undergarments, sleepwear, and other items of apparel that need to be both comfortable and breathable typically utilize this micro modal. Bedding, towels, and other home textiles made from this micro modal are also quite fashionable.

Differences Between Modal And Micro Modal

Micro modal is a variant of modal fabric. Although, modal and micro modal are both types of fabric that are made from cellulose fibers derived from the beech tree. However, there are some key differences between the two:

• Manufacturing Process: As mentioned above, the cellulose fibers used to create both modal and micro modal fabrics originate from the beech tree. However, micro modal requires a more sophisticated manufacturing process that begins with the fibers being broken down into smaller, finer strands before being spun into yarn and then woven into fabric. That’s why the final product of the micro modal is a finer, softer, and lighter modal fabric than what is available in stores.
• Fiber Size: Modal fibers are larger in diameter than micro modal fibers, which makes micro modal fabric finer, softer, and more lightweight than regular modal fabric.
• Comfort And Breathability: Micro modal fabric is generally more comfortable and breathable than regular modal fabric, due to its finer and more lightweight nature. This makes it a popular choice for garments that require a high level of comfort and breathability, such as t-shirts, underwear, and sleepwear.
• Durability: Both modal and micro modal fabrics are known for their durability and resistance to shrinking, fading, and pilling. However, the micro modal may be slightly more prone to damage due to its finer fibers.
• Versatility: Both Modal and micro modal can be used for a wide range of garments and household items. Modal is often used to make clothing, bedding, and other household textiles, while micro modal is often used for high-end garments that require a high level of comfort and breathability.

In short, Modal and micro modal are both high-quality fabrics that are known for their softness, drape, and ability to hold their shape well. While micro modal is finer, softer, and more lightweight than regular modal fabric, both are used for a wide range of garments and household items.

Does Micro Modal Fabric Shrink?

Micro modal fabric is generally resistant to shrinking when it is treated with care. Micro modal fibers are finer and more delicate than regular modal fibers, but they are also strong and durable and are able to withstand the rigors of washing and drying without becoming damaged or losing their shape.

However, it is difficult to quantify exactly how much micro modal might shrink, as this can depend on a variety of factors, including the specific care instructions for the garment or item, the fabric’s quality, and the type of machine and detergent used.

In short, the micro modal fabric is resistant to shrinking, just like the modal fabric. However, it is always a good idea to follow the care instructions on the garment or item to ensure that it is treated properly.

Can Modal Fabric Be Machine Washed?

Yes, you can wash modal fabric in the washing machine without any worries. Modal fabric is very low maintenance and can be machine-washed because it is a stable fabric that is resistant to shrinking and damage when it is treated with care.

Modal fibers are strong and durable and are able to withstand the rigors of washing and drying without becoming damaged or losing their shape. Typically, Modal is generally a very easy fabric to care for, but it is always best to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the fabric is treated properly. However, Modals, like other synthetic materials, don’t stand up well to too-hot temperatures. So, it is advisable to keep the temperature lower than 40°C (104°F).

That’s why, it is important to follow the care instructions on the garment or item, as a modal fabric can be damaged if it is treated improperly. Modal is generally a very easy fabric to care for, but it is always best to follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer to ensure that the fabric is treated properly.

How Does Modal Fabric Feel?

Modal fabric is known for its softness and smooth, silky feel. Its luxurious feel and well drape are sometimes equated to those of natural silk. Modal fabric is also known for its ability to hold its shape well, which gives it a rigid yet soft feel.

Modal fabric is also known for its moisture-wicking properties. Modal fabric can absorb up to 50% of its weight in water without feeling damp or wet, which helps to keep the skin cool and dry. In addition, Modal fabric is pretty resistant to wrinkles and does not have as much of a tendency to wrinkle as cotton fabric because cotton tends to retain wrinkles.

In short, Modal fabric is an excellent choice of fabric for clothing due to its luxurious, soft, and comfortable feel and smooth and silky feel on the skin, and its ability to hold its shape well. It is a popular choice for a wide range of garments and household items due to its versatility and easy care.

Is Modal Breathable?

Yes, the modal fabric is generally considered to be breathable. Modal fabric is able to breathe because of all the tiny air pockets that exist between the fibers of the modal fabric. Modal fabric breathes because it contains a lot of tiny holes in its fiber structure and this means that moisture can easily travel into and out of the modal textile without significant resistance.

Modal fabrics are able to absorb about 50% of their weight in water. They can also release water vapor through their pores. When this happens the fabric will feel cool to the touch and it will begin to dry. Modal fabric is able to “breathe” because of its ability to allow moisture in and out while still retaining its original size.

What Is Modal Cotton? Does Modal Cotton Shrink?

Fibers from both modal and cotton are combined to create modal cotton. Natural fibers like cotton and modal (a cellulose fiber derived from the beech tree) are favored by many people. Because modal cotton blends are known for their softness, drape, and ability to hold their shape well.

When it comes to shrinkage, most modal cotton blends hold up well in the washing machine and dryer. However, it is always a good idea to follow the care instructions on the garment or item to ensure that it is treated properly.

Modal cotton blends are typically machine washable in cold water on the delicate cycle and safely dried on low heat in the dryer or can be air dried. When washing your fabric, it’s best to avoid using harsh detergents like bleach or washing it in extremely hot water, since both can damage the fibers and make your cloth less sturdy over time.

In short, if washed and dried correctly, modal cotton shouldn’t shrink much. It is important to follow the washing and drying recommendations for the specific garment or item.

How Do You Get Wrinkles Out Of Modal Fabric?

In general, the modal fabric is pretty resistant to wrinkles. However, washing your Modal Fabric might cause the fibers to wrinkle because they are made from wood pulp. 

Modal fabric can be easily ironed and many people choose to do so when they want their clothing to look crisper. However, it is best not to iron any types of model fabric that have been treated with dyes or have been chemically treated.

Some people choose to use a steam iron. When using a steam iron, ensure that the iron is not too hot as this can cause damage to the fibers of your Modal fabric.

In addition, you can use products that claim to remove wrinkles from your fabric but there are no guarantees that these products will work on Modal fabrics.

In short, ironing the modal fabric is the best way to remove wrinkles from the modal fabric.

How To Shrink Modal Fabric?

It is generally not advisable to intentionally shrink the modal fabric, as it is a stable fabric that is resistant to shrinking. Shrinking modal fabric can cause it to become misshapen or damaged, and can also affect its softness, drape, and ability to hold its shape well.

However, if you still want to shrink your modal fabric, then you can try the following methods.

1. Exposure to high temperatures might cause the modal fabric to shrink.
2. Washing the garment in hot water can help to shrink the fabric slightly.
3. Drying the garment on a high heat setting can also cause the fabric to shrink slightly.
4. Ironing the garment with a hot iron can also help to shrink the fabric slightly.
5. Press the fabric into the desired shape. You can also use a steam iron on a low setting to do this.

It is important to note that these methods may not work for all modal garments or items, and may cause the fabric to become misshapen or damaged. If you are uncertain about how to shrink the modal fabric, it is best to consult a professional or seek guidance from the manufacturer.

Is Modal Better Than Cotton?

It is difficult to say definitively whether modal is better than cotton. Both modal and cotton have their advantages and disadvantages, making a comparison between them difficult. In the end, the ideal cloth for a given purpose will be the one that best suits the specific needs and preferences of the user.

Modal is a type of cellulose fiber that is derived from the beech tree. It is known for its softness, drape, and ability to hold its shape well, and is often used to make clothing, bedding, and other household textiles. Modal is also resistant to shrinking, fading, and pilling, and is easy to care for. However, the modal is also more expensive compared to cotton.

On the other hand, Cotton is a natural fiber that is derived from the cotton plant. It is known for its breathability, absorbency, and durability, and is often used to make clothing, bedding, and other household textiles. Cotton is also generally inexpensive and widely available.

In short, it all depends on the choice of user. While the drape and softness of modal may appeal to some, on the other hand, the breathability and absorbency of cotton may sway the preference of others. Each fabric has its own set of advantages and disadvantages; picking the right one comes down to personal preference and practical considerations.

FAQ About Does Modal Fabric Shrink

Final Thoughts

Modal fabric does not shrink that much. However, there is a chance that modal fabric can shrink when you wash them at a high temperature, or tumble dry them on high heat. In order to avoid this, make sure that you read the washing instruction and follow it closely to prevent any shrinkage from happening.

Modal fabric is ideal for making clothes and sheets because of its silky feel, durability, and smooth finish. The modal clothing market is growing significantly because of the reduced pollution caused by the production of modal fabric compared to other fabrics.

SOURCE

1. Quora – Does modal fabric shrink?
2. AskAndyAboutCloths – Modal Fabric: Everything You Wanted to Know
3. FAQ-Blog – What fabric is modal?
4. Reddit – Let’s talk about Modal. How to take a tree and turn it one of the softest materials on the market. Part 4: Properties of Modal
5. Quora – What is modal cotton?