Caring for Your Modal Clothing: Washing Tips and Care Guidelines

If you're tired of dealing with fabrics that shrink or lose their shape in the wash, it might be time to give modal fabric a try. This semi-synthetic material, derived from beech tree pulp, is a game-changer when it comes to laundry day.

Unlike some other fabrics, modal holds its shape and doesn't stretch or shrink when it gets wet. Plus, it's more durable than cotton, with 50% less chance of shrinking, and it's less prone to pilling thanks to its strong fibers and smooth surface.

Taking care of modal clothes is a breeze. Just treat them like you would cotton or linen: wash in cold water with regular detergent on a gentle cycle, and use low to medium heat when drying. But steer clear of chlorine bleach — it can damage the fabric.

Want more tips on how to care for, repair, and store modal clothes? Keep reading for step-by-step instructions and expert advice.

What You Need:

Tools: Washing machine, Clothes dryer

Materials: Regular detergent, Oxygen bleach (if needed), Baking soda (if desired), Mesh washing bag (if handling delicate items)

Step-by-Step:

1. Secure Delicate:

For delicate modal pieces, pop them into a mesh washing bag before loading them into the machine. Otherwise, they can go straight in.

2. Set the Stage:

Opt for the gentle cycle with cold water on your machine. Skip the chlorine bleach — it's a no-go for modal.

3. Dry Time:

Once the wash is done, give your clothes a shake to banish any creases. Modal likes a low to medium-high dryer temperature. Take them out while still a tad damp to cut down on wrinkles.

4. Wrinkle-Free Finish:

If wrinkles are still hanging around, steam them away. Knitted modal is usually wrinkle-resistant if you snag it from the dryer pronto and fold or hang it. Woven modal, though, might need a bit of ironing for that crisp look.

Stain Solutions for Modal Clothes:

For stubborn stains on modal clothes, tackle them according to the specific stain guidelines. Then, wash as usual. Got pesky perspiration odors? Soak the item in a cool water and baking soda solution for at least 30 minutes before washing normally.

Care and Repairs for Modal Clothes:

Modal is tough and fights off pilling like a champ. You'll likely only need repairs for tears or snags. Thankfully, it's a stable fabric that doesn't rip easily.

For tears, grab a needle and matching thread. If the tear's jagged, flip the garment inside out and apply lightweight fusible interfacing over the hole for an invisible fix. Snagged? Thread a needle with matching thread, come up from the opposite side of the snag, pull the snag down, and tie it off inside the garment to prevent further damage.

Ironing Tips:

Some modal garments might wrinkle a lot after washing and need ironing. Use a medium-hot iron and iron on the reverse side to prevent shiny spots.

For extra protection, place a pressing cloth between the iron and the modal fabric. High temperatures can scorch plant fibers, leading to yellowing or scorch marks that can't be fixed.

Storing Your Modal Clothes:

To keep wrinkles at bay, hang your modal garments properly in your closet after washing. Make sure they have enough space to breathe.

Washing Frequency:

Shirts, underwear, and activewear made of modal should be washed after each wear. Pants and jackets can go a few wears before needing a wash.

Washing Tips:

For a brightening boost, mix powdered oxygen bleach with water following the package instructions. Soak the stained garment for at least two hours or overnight.

Avoid chlorine bleach — it can fade colors and weaken modal fibers. If you must use it for stains or whitening white clothes, dilute it. But be cautious; it can cause fibers to weaken and wear out prematurely.

If your modal garment is a blend, like silk-modal or wool-modal, stick to the care instructions for the most delicate fiber in the mix.