Unveiling The Eco-Friendly Benefits of Modal Fabric
Introduction: What Is Modal Fabric?
If there is one fabric that is used across almost all garment categories today, it would be the modal fabric. With a great fall, finish, and versatility, the modal checks all the parameters for a stylish garment. It is used in apparel, lingerie, and even home linen. But what is modal fabric made from, and how is it better than other fabrics? To find your answers to these questions, follow the blog till the end.
How is Modal Fabric Made?
Modal fabric is made from cellulose obtained from the Indian beech tree, also called the Pongamia pinnata tree. Cellulose is an important part of a plant, as it gives the required firmness and structure. When used in the composition, it lends this structure to fabrics.
Cellulose derived from the beech tree is processed and formed into sheets. It is then subjected to numerous chemical treatments to create a smooth yarn, which is further woven into the modal fabric.
Due to its drap ability, modal is often confused with viscose rayon. You may also wonder if modal is natural or synthetic. Modal is only partially synthetic. It is more eco-friendly than synthetic fabrics. Though the feel of this fabric is similar to viscose rayon, it is far superior.
Sodium hydroxide is used to process viscose rayon and modal. However, the quantity used for modal processing is much less than that used for rayon, making modal more environmentally friendly.
6 Surprising Benefits Of Modal Fabric For Women
Modal fabric is commonly seen in modern collections, be it a beautiful saree or a breezy skirt. This is especially true for womenswear, and there are several reasons for this. Let us review the benefits of modal fabric.
Excellent Drape And Stretch
Fluid and airy, modal lends a great fall to clothing. One can compare it to a silk fabric, but it is more durable. Hence, designers are innovatively using it for blouses, eco-friendly dresses, skirts, and even saris. More benefits of modal fabric include its flexibility or stretch. Due to this, it is used in active sportswear like sustainable tops, shorts, joggers, etc.
Breathable And Has a Soft Finish
Modal has a high breathability quotient, even compared to cotton. Unlike synthetic fabrics, it absorbs moisture, and the wearer feels comfortable at all times. This is one of the reasons it is also used for innerwear and lingerie, where soft texture and moisture wicking are required.
Suitable For Sensitive Skin
The soft texture and its natural cellulose component make modal a fabulous, comfortable fiber, suitable for lingerie and for women with sensitive skin. Unlike viscose rayon, modal is made from organic material, and hence allergies are not caused.
Durable
Modal fabric is closely woven, which gives it a tighter weave compared to other fabrics. This improves its stability and allows it to last longer. Further, less pilling is noted in the modal compared to other fabrics.
Colour Fastness
Another benefit of modal is that it can be dyed in rich, vibrant colours. The colours also have good speed and do not fade away too quickly.
Reduced Carbon Footprint
The origin of the modal is plant cellulose. Its development consumes a lesser percentage of water compared to other fabrics, making it a greener alternative to synthetics. This gives modal an upper hand when considering the benefits of modal fabric in women's wear.
Modal Fabric Vs. Other Fabrics: Which Is Better
In today’s era of sustainable practices, the debate on modal vs. other fabrics can be endless. However, this fabric has advantages over others. For instance, the development of modal takes less sodium hydroxide than viscose rayon and significantly less water than cotton processing.
Modal has a super smooth texture and is far less expensive compared to silk. Though it is confused with viscose rayon, it is much superior on many counts like moisture absorption, comfort, drape, and pilling properties. Modal fabric also has better colour fastness compared to cotton, which tends to fade quickly. The cost of modals may be higher than that of cheaper synthetics like nylon and recycled polyester. However, it is worthwhile due to numerous advantages.
Conclusion
Go for Virgio If you are looking to upgrade your wardrobe and invest in better fabrics and styling, opt for modal fabric. It is more eco-friendly, gives a great fit, is easy to maintain, and is much more durable. Synthetics look dated, whereas modal adds an appealing freshness. While it may be slightly higher in cost, it is worth every bit due to its soft fall and fine finish.