Modal

Modal: Its Benefits and Uses

Modal is a type of rayon made from beech tree pulp, known for its softness, strength, and environmentally considerate production. When sourced from Lenzing-certified producers, Modal is made in a closed-loop system that reuses water and chemicals, minimizing waste.

Benefits:

• Silky and Breathable: Extremely soft and ideal for garments worn close to the skin.

• Eco-Conscious Sourcing: Beech trees used in production often grow on non-agricultural land, requiring little irrigation.

• Durable and Color-Retaining: Resists shrinking and fading, with a smooth finish that holds dye well.

• Moisture-Wicking: Keeps wearers dry and comfortable.

• Biodegradable: Decomposes naturally without harming the environment.

Uses:

• Underwear, activewear, and loungewear.

• T-shirts and casual wear.

• Sleepwear and lingerie.

• Home textiles like sheets and pillowcases.

Let's take a Closer Look at Modal

Modal as a Sustainable Fabric

1. What is Modal Fabric?

• Modal is a semi-synthetic cellulose fiber derived primarily from beechwood pulp. It is a type of rayon, like viscose and lyocell, but is processed differently to achieve enhanced performance and sustainability.

• First developed in Austria by Lenzing AG, Modal is often used in apparel, undergarments, loungewear, bedding, and home textiles thanks to its exceptional softness, drape, and breathability.

• While Modal is not entirely natural due to the chemical processing involved, certified Modal (like Lenzing Modal™) is manufactured using responsibly sourced wood and closed-loop production, making it a more eco-conscious alternative to conventional rayon or cotton.

2. Environmental Benefits

• Sustainable Raw Material Sourcing:

  • Modal is primarily made from renewable beech trees, which require no artificial irrigation and grow naturally in temperate forests.

  • Lenzing’s Modal is sourced from FSC® or PEFC® certified forests, ensuring responsible forestry practices.

• Efficient Land Use:

  • Beech trees produce more fiber per acre than cotton, making Modal a more resource-efficient fiber choice.

• Reduced Chemical Impact:

  • Lenzing’s process uses non-toxic chemicals in a closed-loop system, reducing the release of harmful substances into the environment.

• Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions:

  • Compared to conventional cotton and traditional viscose, Modal production produces fewer emissions and has a smaller carbon footprint.

3. Durability and Longevity

• Stronger Than Viscose:

  • Modal fibers are more resilient and strong, both wet and dry, making garments longer-lasting and resistant to wear.

• Retains Shape and Softness:

  • Doesn’t shrink or pill easily, and remains soft wash after wash.

• Ideal for Everyday Wear:

  • Modal’s strength and flexibility make it perfect for undergarments, activewear, and frequently worn clothing.

4. Low-Waste Production

• Closed-Loop Manufacturing (Lenzing Modal™):

  • Up to 95% of production chemicals are recovered and reused, drastically minimizing waste and water pollution.

• Low Water Consumption:

  • Beechwood trees used for Modal require little to no irrigation, dramatically reducing water usage compared to cotton.

• High Fiber Yield:

  • Modal offers more usable fiber per tree than many other wood-based fabrics, leading to less raw material waste.

5. Versatility and Comfort

• Ultra-Soft Hand Feel:

  • Modal is known for its silky smooth texture and is often described as being softer than cotton.

• Lightweight and Breathable:

  • Wicks moisture away from the skin, making it ideal for warm weather and performance wear.

• Elegant Drape:

  • The fiber’s natural stretch and drape make it a favorite for flowy dresses, tops, and luxe basics.

• Blendable:

  • Blends well with cotton, spandex, or lyocell for added durability, stretch, or structure.

6. Economic and Social Impact

• Ethical Supply Chain (Lenzing Modal™):

  • Lenzing operates under strict environmental and labor guidelines, supporting safe working conditions and fair wages.

• Accessible Price Point:

  • More affordable than TENCEL™ Lyocell or organic silk, while offering a luxurious look and feel.

• Growing Use in Conscious Fashion:

  • Modal is increasingly embraced by sustainable fashion brands for basics, intimates, and soft loungewear.

7. Circular Fashion and Modal

• Biodegradable and Compostable:

  • Like other cellulose fibers, Modal is biodegradable under industrial and home composting conditions when untreated with synthetic dyes or finishes.

• Extended Product Life:

  • The fabric’s durability supports a longer wear cycle, helping reduce overconsumption and garment waste.

• Recyclability:

  • Modal garments are generally recyclable within textile recycling streams designed for natural or cellulosic fibers.

8. Things to Consider

• Semi-Synthetic Nature:

  • Although derived from natural materials, Modal’s processing involves chemical solvents. Only certified Modal (e.g., Lenzing Modal™) guarantees eco-friendly production.

• Potential for Greenwashing:

  • Modal from uncertified sources may involve unsustainable forestry or polluting processes—always check for credible certifications like EU Ecolabel, FSC®, PEFC®, or Lenzing branding.

• Care Requirements:

  • While durable, Modal is best washed on gentle cycles with cold water and air-dried to maintain softness and longevity.

Summary:

Modal is a luxuriously soft, breathable, and sustainable alternative to traditional cotton and viscose. When produced responsibly (e.g., by Lenzing), it offers substantial environmental benefits such as reduced water and chemical use, closed-loop processing, and biodegradability. Its durability and comfort make it ideal for sustainable fashion collections, especially in the basics, intimates, and loungewear sectors.