Viscose vs. Modal: Which One Should You Choose?

Today, synthetic materials aren’t eco-friendly enough, while natural fabrics cost more. Therefore, people are increasingly paying more attention to semi-synthetic fabrics. Among them, viscose and modal have become popular choices due to their excellent texture. As regenerated cellulose fibers, they combine comfort and sustainability, transforming from simple substitutes to fashion-forward materials.

But when it comes to making a real choice, viscose vs. modal: which is better? And what are the differences between them? This blog will give you the answer and help you be a savvy designer or informed consumer.

What is Viscose Fabric?

Viscose is sometimes called viscose rayon or rayon (especially in North America). It is a regenerated cellulose fiber made from natural plant-based pulp through chemical processes. This material is artificial but derived from nature, classified as a semi-synthetic fabric.

It was born in the late 19th century. Initially, viscose was used as an alternative to expensive, luxurious silk. The fabric can present a subtle sheen and a fluid drape. This creates an elegant and refined appearance like silk. In addition, viscose is lightweight, breathable, and moisture-absorbent. Combined with its affordable price, the viscose fabric has become one of the primary fabrics in the mass market.

Popular viscose products include dresses, shirts, tops, linings, scarves, loungewear, and draperies.

What is Modal Fabric?

Modal is also one of the rayon family. It is considered a premium, optimized version. Like viscose, this is a regenerated cellulose fiber derived from plant-based wood pulp (primarily beechwood).

In the mid-20th century, Europe successfully developed modal based on the traditional viscose. This fabric offers exceptional softness and smoothness. Though semi-synthetic, it is gentle on the skin and suitable for close-to-the-skin uses, such as underwear. Additionally, modal has greater strength and structural stability. This can help your products resist wrinkling and pilling. For these reasons, modal is also positioned as a mid-to-high-end option.

Common applications for modal include: underwear, T-shirts, dresses, pajamas, loungewear, casual wear, and high-quality scarves.

Basic Understanding: The Relationship Between Viscose, Modal, and Rayon

Whether in this article or other fabric guides, you’ll often find viscose and modal associated with rayon. Before starting the comparison, it is necessary to clarify the connection among the three.

• Rayon is a general term referring to any regenerated cellulose fiber. It is usually made from natural cellulose that undergoes chemical processing to re-form into fibers. Fabrics within the rayon family are known for their softness, breathability, and flowing drape.
• Viscose is the first-generation and the most widely used type of rayon. It is made using the viscose process, which involves more chemicals. Despite this, viscose rayon accounts for the majority of global rayon production.
• Modal is the second-generation improved version of rayon. It offers a stronger option for the rayon family, especially in wet conditions. And, although it is still made using chemical processes, it reduces some of the environmental impacts, making it a more advanced and high-quality rayon type.

With this foundation, let’s delve into a deeper comparison. 

Viscose vs. Modal: Comparison Table

Viscose vs. Modal: Key Differences – An Expert Analysis

Both belong to the same category of regenerated cellulose fibers – rayon. Therefore, their subtle differences can be difficult for beginners to identify. Below, we will compare them in terms of production process, fiber structure, fabric features, and performance, providing you with a systematic expert analysis. 

Manufacturing Process

• Viscose

The raw materials for viscose can be eucalyptus, pine, bamboo, and other plant sources. These materials are chipped and processed into wood pulp, which is then manufactured using the traditional viscose process.  

First, sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide dissolve the natural cellulose into a viscous solution. Next, this honey-like liquid is extruded through spinnerets and enters an acid bath. After cooling and solidifying, it regenerates into viscose filament fibers.

This process is mature and cost-effective, and widely used worldwide. However, it also brings us more environmental and health concerns. Chemical byproducts and residues may harm workers, the environment, and even users. Additionally, the process provides limited control over fiber uniformity. This will negatively affect fiber stability and fabric performance.

• Modal

The manufacturing process of modal has been improved upon the traditional methods.

It typically uses sustainably managed beechwood as the raw material. Similarly, these woods are treated and dissolved in a sodium hydroxide solution to extract cellulose. The resulting cellulose pulp has an average degree of polymerization of around 450. The concentration of its spinning solution is relatively high. 

During extrusion, a lower coagulation bath temperature slows fiber formation. This results in a denser and smoother structure. Finally, the fibers are stretched, making them finer and more uniform.

This improved viscose process precisely controls the conditions for fiber regeneration. As a result, modal fibers are stronger and more stable. Moreover, chemical management and control are stricter than in traditional processes. These practices promote better environmental protection and safer wear.

Verdict: The production process of modal is more advanced. It can also improve quality and environmental responsibility. Today, many manufacturers are adopting greener production methods to produce viscose. Therefore, selecting certified products and reputable suppliers is crucial.

Fiber Structure and Strength

• Viscose

The formation process of viscose fibers involves chemical reactions. Its complexity and unevenness result in an irregular cross-section, while the longitudinal surface shows wrinkles and grooves. This creates a loose fiber structure with internal voids.

At the molecular level, the polymer arrangement of viscose fibers is less ordered. This leads to lower tensile strength, especially when wet. Viscose has a dry strength of 22 – 27 cN/tex, while the wet strength is only 10-15 cN/tex. This means it is prone to stretching, deformation, or breakage during washing or in humid conditions.

• Modal

Modal can also be called high-wet-modulus viscose. Its fiber has no internal pores and a high degree of crystallinity. Its cross-section appears oval, while the longitudinal section is smooth and wrinkle-free. This results in a more stable fiber structure.

Similarly, when analyzing its molecular level, modal fibers have more tightly packed polymer chains. This significantly enhances its tensile strength and recovery elasticity. The dry strength of the modal fiber is 34-36 cN/tex, and the wet strength is also as high as 20-22 cN/tex. Therefore, it typically maintains fiber integrity even when saturated with moisture, resisting damage.

Verdict: Modal fiber outperforms viscose in strength, even in wet conditions. This advantage stems from its enhanced manufacturing process and denser fiber structure.

Fabric Appearance and Texture

• Viscose

Viscose is renowned for its luxuriousness, similar to that of silk. The viscose filament fibers extruded through spinnerets are fine and uniform. Combined with their smooth appearance, they can reflect light effectively. This gives the fabric a subtle shimmer. Viscose fabric can also drape naturally and elegantly in flowing silhouettes. This further enhances its visual appeal in finished products.

While fabric texture relates to weave, GSM, and other factors, viscose generally possesses a soft, gentle feel like natural materials. It offers a cool, smooth touch and exceptional comfort. Therefore, viscose is popular in dress designs, shirts, skirts, and drapery designs. However, over time, viscose tends to lose shape easily and may develop pilling on the surface. 

• Modal

Modal boasts a more refined and uniform appearance. While it may lack a dazzling sheen, its smooth and exceptionally soft texture exudes a sense of luxury. The updated manufacturing process produces fibers that are finer, denser, and more uniform than viscose. This gives modal fabric an elegant and drapey texture. Unlike traditional viscose, it also combines fluidity, crispness, and elasticity, making it easy to present designs that emphasize fluidity.

The common modal fabrics we often see are usually knitted. This further enhances the softness, comfort, and flexibility. Excellent absorbency ensures long-lasting, vibrant colors. Moreover, modal’s superior strength allows it to maintain its original appearance longer, making it ideal for high-end basics, undergarments, and other apparel designs.

Verdict: Simply put, viscose fabric has a relatively stronger sheen, while modal offers a more understated sophistication. However, modal can maintain good appearance and texture for a longer time than viscose.

Breathability

Both viscose and modal are plant-based, regenerated cellulose fibers, making their fabrics more breathable than fully synthetic fibers.

• Viscose

As mentioned earlier, viscose fibers have a relatively open structure with internal pores. This provides the fabric with natural airflow channels, promoting air circulation and heat dissipation. Its breathability rivals that of cotton fibers, making viscose highly popular for summer clothing and lightweight garments. However, note that thicker viscose fabrics or those with tightly woven structures may have reduced breathability. In addition, when it is saturated with water, it will also affect breathability.

• Modal

Modal is also a breathable material. Despite its denser fiber structure, this does not hinder its balanced airflow distribution. Its plant-based origin and typically open weave ensure air exchange between the fabric’s surface and the skin. And its smooth texture can minimize friction against the skin, ensuring sufficient air circulation. Even in form-fitting garments, modal maintains consistent breathability, bringing comfort and coolness.

Verdict: Both viscose and modal are relatively breathable. The former needs to pay attention to the fabric structure and thickness, while the latter has more stable breathability.

Moisture Absorption and Management

• Viscose

Viscose has a high moisture absorption capacity. Its moisture regain rate under normal atmospheric conditions reaches 13%, while cotton is only around 8.5%. This means it can quickly absorb sweat and moisture. However, its high water retention capacity of up to 90% causes it to retain moisture. So, you may feel damp or heavy during use. The slow release of moisture can affect the drying time and increase the risk of damage during washing.

• Modal

Modal offers superior moisture-wicking performance. Its moisture absorption capacity exceeds cotton fibers by 50%. The improved fiber structure absorbs and disperses moisture easily onto the fabric surface. Its excellent breathability allows this moisture to evaporate. Data shows a moisture regain of 12.5% and water retention of 60%. Therefore, modal fibers maintain dryness and comfort even during exercise or in warm environments.

Verdict: Modal has better moisture absorption and release capabilities, making it suitable for prolonged wear in hot climates. While viscose has better moisture absorption, it may retain some moisture.

Comfort and skin-friendliness

• Viscose

Viscose fabric offers a soft and smooth feel, with its low-friction texture being gentle and skin-friendly. As a cellulose fiber, it provides excellent breathability and a cool sensation. Viscose can remain comfortable even in warm or hot environments. However, when damp, viscose loses its lightness and breathability, clinging to the skin and increasing discomfort. Additionally, the grooved structure on its fiber surface may cause friction during prolonged wear.

• Modal

Modal exhibits exceptional softness and comfort. It is often described as buttery smooth and soft. Its smooth surface and drape can minimize friction and glide gently over the skin. At the same time, the modal fabric feels cool upon initial contact. Over time, it gradually warms without becoming overly hot, delivering a consistently smooth and comfortable sensation. Modal is an ideal choice for garments requiring prolonged skin contact, such as underwear and pajamas.

Verdict: Both are comfortable options. However, modal allows for extended skin contact, while viscose requires caution regarding potential discomfort when damp.

Durability

• Viscose

Viscose has relatively poor durability, especially when exposed to moisture. This is because its loose fiber structure. As mentioned earlier, its dry strength is 22-27cN/tex, which is close to that of cotton. However, its wet strength has decreased significantly (10-15 cN/tex), being only half of the dry strength. This means that the fibers will become more fragile under repeated washing and stretching, resulting in deformation or tearing.

Loosely woven or knitted viscose fabrics are also more prone to pilling or deformation. The fiber strength is generally moderate, making surface fibers susceptible to breakage or entanglement. This can cause pilling after friction. Additionally, prolonged wear or stress can lead to deformation.

• Modal

Modal offers enhanced durability compared to traditional types. While its wet strength still decreases, the reduction is relatively minor. Optimized molecular alignment and a compact structure allow it to withstand repeated washing and daily wear.

Pilling and deformation are also minimal. Its strong, smooth fibers resist breaking under friction, reducing potential pilling or fuzzing. Additionally, modal’s superior elasticity helps maintain shape. Even after frequent washing and wear, modal retains its appearance and fit.

Verdict: Modal is more durable than viscose. It resists wear, pilling, and deformation while consistently maintaining good strength.

Wrinkle and Shrinkage Resistance

• Viscose

Viscose is known for its tendency to shrink and wrinkle. When exposed to high heat or vigorous washing, its fiber structure expands and loosens, leading to significant size changes after drying. Additionally, due to its lack of stretch, viscose fabric is prone to creasing under pressure. This requires additional ironing or steaming to smooth out the wrinkles.

• Modal

In contrast, modal fabric has better dimensional stability. Its shrinkage rate is low (1% – 6%) and only slightly shrinks during the first wash. Although modal is not completely wrinkle-resistant, its elasticity helps it return to its original shape more easily. Therefore, modal can always present a smooth and flat appearance throughout use.

Verdict: Modal’s enhanced wrinkle and shrinkage resistance make it ideal for frequent washing and daily wear.

Maintenance

• Viscose

Since viscose easily loses its strength, it requires careful handling. Generally, you should wash it in cold water and use a mild detergent or one specially designed for delicate fabrics. Avoid harsh chemicals. Air drying is the best option. Both high temperatures and vigorous rubbing weaken the fibers, leading to shrinkage or distortion.

• Modal

Modal is machine-washable. Due to its excellent durability, it is less susceptible to water and friction damage. So, regular washing is sufficient. However, there are still some precautions: Use neutral or low-alkali detergents. Avoid fabric softeners. Wash the fabric in warm water and do not soak for more than 15 minutes. Also, avoid direct sunlight exposure.

Verdict: Modal requires less maintenance. However, to extend the lifespan of the fabric, whether it is viscose or modal, gentle washing is recommended.

Price

• Viscose

The cost of viscose is lower. As the initial version of rayon, its production technology has already matured. Mechanized processes and less manual involvement have reduced the production cost. This allows you launch a mass-market fashion collection at a more affordable price, bringing softness and comfort to your customers.

• Modal

Modal is more expensive than viscose. As its upgraded version, it is more complex in terms of raw materials, processing techniques, and post-processing, and its cost is also higher. However, modal can offer extended durability and enhanced comfort to offset these costs, making it a more valuable investment.

Verdict: Viscose is cost-effective and suitable for large-scale production. While modal provides higher long-term value.

Sustainability

• Viscose

Although viscose originates from renewable plant resources, the traditional production process has a significant environmental impact. A large amount of chemicals and wastewater can harm both workers and the ecosystem. However, the advanced process can alleviate the damage caused by these chemicals. Responsible manufacturers will also reduce environmental impact through more sustainable production practices.

• Modal

Modal adopts a more environmentally friendly production method. For example, sustainable managed forest sources, higher pulp utilization rates, and lower emissions. Although it is still a chemical processing product, it is more sustainable than viscose.

Verdict: The production of traditional viscose can harm the environment, while modal is better in this aspect. Choosing reliable manufacturers and opting for viscose and modal with international certifications is a better choice for the planet and ourselves.

Viscose vs. Modal: Different Applications

Viscose and modal have very similar applications, ranging from clothing to accessories. But which one is more suitable for your next underwear, scarf, or pajamas project? Please refer to the following:

Underwear and Close-Fitting Garments

• Viscose

With its soft, smooth texture and good breathability, viscose is also used in lingerie production. It offers affordability and comfort. However, viscose has low wet strength, and garments worn next to the skin require frequent washing. This can cause viscose underwear to gradually become thinner, lose shape, or even be damaged. Additionally, it may also become harder and reduce comfort due to water absorption.

• Modal

Modal is a popular material for intimate apparel. Its exceptionally smooth and soft texture prevents friction or irritation on delicate skin. Superior moisture-wicking properties keep undergarments lightweight and dry, enhancing wearability. Compared to viscose underwear, modal is easier to clean without shrinking or deformation. Therefore, modal underwear, bras, briefs, men’s boxers, and shapewear have become best-selling items for brands.

T-shirts and Everyday Wear

• Viscose

Viscose T-shirts and other everyday clothing feature smooth lines and an elegant drape. This can create a casual and fashionable look. Therefore, you can apply it in seasonal or trendy collections. However, viscose T-shirts may deform, shrink, or lose their shape after repeated washing.

• Modal

Modal is commonly used in high-quality T-shirts and everyday essential items. It can provide a smooth and fine surface. Good dye absorption and retention ability create an attractive look. This offers a comfortable experience and a beautiful look for daily wear. Modal T-shirts are elastic and durable, withstanding regular wear and frequent washing.

Pajamas and Loungewear

• Viscose

The first impression of viscose pajamas is softness, smoothness, breathability, and coolness. This makes them ideal for warm seasons. Their appearance is elegant and luxurious. Even when worn at home, they can still exude confidence and charm. However, viscose changes texture when damp. This can affect comfort during nighttime wear, especially for those prone to sweating.

• Modal

With its outstanding moisture-wicking and breathable properties, modal can effectively regulate body temperature. Therefore, it can perform well in both pajamas and home wear applications. Even those prone to night sweats can stay dry and comfortable in modal. It is also durable and remains soft and smooth even after repeated washing.

Hijabs and Scarves

• Viscose

Viscose hijabs are popular for their lightweight, breathable feel, natural-like texture, and affordable price. Their excellent drape ensures a beautiful look when worn. And the breathability offers comfort for everyday use. However, wrinkling and slipping are common drawbacks of viscose scarves. Opting for viscose blend materials can partially address these issues.

• Modal

Compared with viscose scarves, modal scarves are more expensive. They offer a slightly stiffer structure and resist slipping. Whether it’s a hijab or a simple scarf worn around the neck, modal maintains its shape and resists pilling. Even when worn for a long time, it can provide softness and comfort.

Bonus Comparison: Viscose vs. Modal vs. Lyocell

Although all three belong to the rayon family, they have the following differences:

• Viscose is the most traditional rayon type. Produced through the viscose process, it is relatively low-cost but involves significant chemical usage. Viscose fabrics offer softness, smoothness, moisture absorption, and breathability. It can provide an appearance and drape very similar to silk. However, its durability is moderate, and it is prone to shrinking and wrinkling.
• Modal is an upgraded and high-performance rayon. Through an improved production process, it addresses viscose’s shortcomings. Modal fabric is more durable and can resist deformation, shrinking, and wrinkling. Its texture is also very soft and comfortable, with excellent moisture-wicking properties. However, it is more expensive than viscose.
• Lyocell is a more advanced and environmentally friendly type of rayon. The most well-known is Lyocell Tencel. It is produced using a closed-loop process, recycling most of the chemicals. Combined with sustainably managed plant-based raw materials, it significantly reduces the environmental impact of production. Lyocell fabric has a smooth and comfortable feel. It also offers excellent moisture-wicking and breathability.

FAQs:

Is modal the same as viscose?

No. They are both types of rayon. But viscose is the original version. Its production process is less environmentally friendly, and the resulting viscose fibers have average durability. Modal is an improved, high-performance version. It is stronger, smoother, and more stable than viscose.

Is viscose or modal more breathable?

Both have good breathability. Viscose exhibits good breathability due to its fiber structure and is suitable for warm environments. However, once it absorbs moisture and becomes saturated, it will lock in the moisture, thus reducing breathability. Modal has more stable breathability. It is also absorbent, but can release moisture more quickly, keeping the fabric dry and breathable.

Is modal better than viscose for clothing?

In most cases, yes. As an upgraded version of viscose, modal is softer, more durable, and easier to care for. It achieves a balance between cost and practicality, offering good value. If your clothing project seeks a glossy appearance and your budget is lower, viscose is also an ideal choice.

How to identify genuine modal and viscose?

Checking the washing label can help you make a more direct distinction. Additionally, viscose fabric is more prone to wrinkling and becomes heavier when wet. While modal is smoother and has elasticity. A professional technique involves testing the fiber. Wet a fiber in the middle and pull it. If it breaks cleanly at the moistened point, it’s viscose. If it resists breakage for a while and snaps elsewhere, it is modal.

Viscose vs. Modal: How to Choose?

Although the two are closely related, they also have distinct differences. If you prioritize softness, luxurious drape, and affordability, choose viscose. If you seek lasting comfort, skin-friendly properties, durability, and easy care, choose modal.

As a leading textile expert in the industry, Sinosilk offers you viscose, viscose blends, modal, and more fabric options here. You can wholesale and customize based on projects. Additionally, you can also order finished products, such as scarves, ties, pillowcases, and pajamas. We look forward to cooperating with you. Contact us now!