Modal fabric is a form of rayon, a material that’s been around for years. But it has recently become one of the most popular fabrics in the world because of its softness and versatility.
The fabric itself is made from wood pulp and is created through a chemical process. The result is a soft, durable fabric that can be used in almost any type of clothing or accessory.

However, this amazing fabric also comes with its downsides. Because it’s so comfortable and breathable, it’s easy to wear on its own without any additional layers underneath.
Wearing just one layer of modal can make you feel much cooler than wearing anything else on top of it.
To learn more about whether modal fabric shrinks or not, continue reading this article.
Does Modal Fabric Shrink
In general, the modal fabric does not shrink. However, it does have a tendency to shrink in length when exposed to heat.
This can be caused by an increase in humidity or another type of chemical reaction that occurs when the material is exposed to heat.
Modal fabric shrinks because it is made from natural fibers that are formed into threads; these threads are woven together to form a fabric.
The process of weaving causes the strands of fibers to interlock with one another over time, and this causes the fibers to become smaller as they continue to interlock.
Can You Put Modal Fabric in the Dryer?
Yes, using a low or medium-heat dryer cycle will work. The fabric will absorb the heat from the dryer and shrink.
You can use a low or medium heat setting on your dryer with modal fabric without damaging it too much. This will help prevent shrinkage but not damage your garment too much if you accidentally get it wet while washing it.
If you do get your garment wet while washing it, then you should remove it immediately from the washer and let it air dry completely before putting it back in the dryer.
Does Modal Fabric Shrink in the Dryer
Modal fabric won’t shrink in the dryer unless you use high heat. High-heat dryer cycle is one of the ways to shrink your Modal fabric in the dryer.
High-heat dryer cycles melt the fibers of your fabric together, causing them to “shrink” together and create a tighter weave than is possible with other fabrics. This can cause fabrics like Modal to stretch out over time, which we know is a problem with this type of fabric.
High heat is needed for your Modal Fabric to shrink. If you are using a low heat setting, there is no way that your modal will shrink in the dryer.
Can You Put Modal Fabric in the Dryer?
Yes, using a low or medium-heat dryer cycle will work. The fabric will absorb the heat from the dryer and shrink.
You can use a low or medium-heat setting on your dryer with modal fabric without damaging it too much. This will help prevent shrinkage but not damage your garment too much if you accidentally get it wet while washing it.
If you do get your garment wet while washing it, then you should remove it immediately from the washer and let it air dry completely before putting it back in the dryer.
Can You Machine Wash Modal Fabric
Yes, the modal fabric can be washed in a washer but be sure to not your hottest wash cycle. Modal is a fiber made from wood pulp and rayon, so it will shrink when wet. If you do not use the hottest water cycle for your washer and dryer, then you will not damage the fibers of your garment.
To maintain the desired shape of your garments during washing and drying cycles, you should only use cold water and avoid using high temperatures (such as hot water).
How Much Does Modal Shrink?
Expect 10% shrinkage for garments made with 100% Modal.
But also it depends on the type of modal fabric and its intended use. For example, two pairs of shorts made from the same fabric with the same amount of stretch will have different shrinkages.
For example, one pair of shorts might shrink about 10%, while another pair might shrink by 40%. Both pairs are modal, but they’re made differently. The difference in shrinkage comes down to two things: how much Modal shrinks and how much Modal stretches.
The more Modal shrinks, the less comfortable a garment will be when worn next to skin or against other garments (like socks). It’s also important to note that although Modal tends to shrink less than rayon or cotton does, it still shrinks significantly when washed and dried. ( Cotton can shrink up to 20%).
How To Wash Modal So It Doesn’t Shrink?
It’s a common misconception that you should never wash your modal in the washing machine. However, using hot water and high temperatures are known to shrink the fabric.
This can cause issues with the shape of your garment, which could lead to it looking wrinkled or puckered after drying. It could also cause your garment to feel rough or feel like it’s not as smooth as it used to be.
If you do end up having to use your modal in the washing machine, make sure you set it on a gentle cycle and use cold or cool water.
Machine Washing Modal Fabric
Here is how to wash modal so it doesn’t shrink:
- Use the gentle cycle. This will prevent any abrasion or damage that could occur during this cycle.
- Set the washer to either the cold or cool water temperature.
- After washing the modal garment, hang it up to dry or use a dryer on low or medium heat.
Hand Washing Modal Fabric
Hand washing is the best method of cleaning modal, but it can be difficult to get all of the dirt and grime off. The best way to clean the modal is to hand wash it using mild detergent and warm water.
- To hand wash your Modal, fill a washtub or sink with lukewarm water.
- Add mild detergent to the water.
- Submerge the item in the water and start washing it with your hand.
- Let the garment soak for about 30 minutes.
- After soaking, rinse the garment under cool water.
- Air dry or use a dryer on low heat if you want to speed up drying time.
Can You Shrink Modal?
You can always shrink your modal garment if it’s too big or if you lost weight. The process is simple, but it does take some time.
The best way to shrink a modal fabric is to wash it first and then put it in a dryer using heat. You can also try using a heat gun or blow dryer to shrink the fabric but this may not be the best choice for everyone.
How To Shrink Modal Clothes
Shrinkage is a term used to describe the loss of volume in fabrics, due to the moisture getting in and out of them. The more you wash your garments, the quicker they shrink.
Here is how to shrink a modal fabric
Step 1. Place the modal fabric into the washing machine
Place the modal fabric into the washing machine. The best way to get it in is by using a towel or other absorbent material. Find a place where you can roll it up and put it in the washer.
Step 2. Set the washer to the hottest and fast cycle
Set your washer to your hottest setting and add some soap if necessary. Then set it on a high spin cycle with no heat option selected. This will help shrink any wrinkles or creases that may be present in the fabric.
Step 3. Wash
Wash as usual, but use a dryer on high heat for about 10 minutes after each load to help shrink any remaining wrinkles or creases from forming after washing and drying.
Step 4. Then use a dryer on the high heat temperature
The high heat setting will shrink the modal fabric in a short amount of time, leaving you with a smaller item that looks like it should be much more expensive than what you paid for it.
How to Shrink Modal Polyester
Shrink your modal polyester clothing by washing it using hot water. This will cause the fibers to shrink more than if you just dried it.
Set the washer to the hottest and fast cycle. This will dry faster and shrink your fabric more. Wash your clothes in cold water with a gentle detergent for best results. Then use a dryer on the high heat temperature for about 30 minutes or until completely dry.
Does Modal Lose Shape?
Modal does not lose its shape easily. It does hold its shape well when laundered. The fabric does not shrink like cotton.
Modal is a type of fabric that is made from rayon and modacrylic fibers. It is similar to a cotton blend fabric because it has the same qualities as cotton, but with a slight difference in weight.
Does Modal Shrink Like Cotton?
Cotton is 50 percent more prone to shrinkage than modal fabric. Modal does not shrink like cotton because it is a synthetic fiber and does not have any natural fibers in it.
Does 50 Cotton 50 Modal Shrink?
Likely to experience some shrink. Because modal is more resistant to shrinking than cotton or other natural fabrics such as wool or silk. There will be less r no shrinkage.
What Are the Disadvantages of Modal Fabric?
Some of the disadvantages of modal fabric include:
- It is not as durable as other fabrics.
- It shrinks and contracts when washed, which can cause its shape to change after washing.
- It is not suitable for use in high-heat situations, such as on dryers or ironing boards (or any other hot surface).