Modal

Modal is a type of rayon made primarily from beech tree pulp using a modified viscose process that is slightly more refined than traditional rayon but still involves harsh chemicals. Modal's enhanced durability and soft hand feel have made it a popular choice for intimate apparel and athletic wear, though the chemical processing raises similar concerns to regular rayon.

For plastic-free living, modal presents a marginally better choice than standard rayon with no microplastic shedding, but still has chemical concerns. Natural fibers like cotton and semi synthetics such as Tencel/Lyocell offers similar performance with genuinely non-toxic processing.

Underwear & Intimates: Underwear, bras, boxer briefs, undershirts

Sleepwear: Pajamas, nightgowns, sleep shirts, robes

Activewear: Athletic shirts, yoga pants, sports bras, base layers

Everyday Apparel: T-shirts, leggings, casual dresses

Bedding: Sheets, pillowcases (marketed as silky-soft)

Bath: Towels, bathrobes (less common than cotton)

Blends: Frequently mixed with cotton, spandex, or polyester

Microplastic Concerns: Modal does not shed microplastics. Like all rayon-based fibers, modal is made from regenerated plant cellulose and is fully biodegradable. When modal fibers are released during washing, they break down into organic matter rather than persistent plastic particles. This advantage over synthetic fibers like polyester remains modal's primary environmental benefit.

Chemical Safety: Modal production uses the viscose process with modifications that improve environmental control but don't eliminate toxic chemicals. The process still requires carbon disulfide (a neurotoxin) and sodium hydroxide. HModal production is more controlled than open-loop viscose but significantly less safe than Tencel's closed-loop lyocell process, which recovers 99%+ of solvents. Additionally, modal fabrics may be treated with softening agents, dyes, or finishes that introduce additional chemical concerns.