Check the Care Label
The first step is always to check the garment’s care label and follow the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Modal fabric care will usually indicate:
- Machine wash cold
- Do not bleach
- Tumble dry low or line dry
- Cool iron if needed
Adhering to these guidelines will help keep modal clothes looking their best for longer.
Sort Laundry and Use a Gentle Cycle
It is best to wash modal garments separately or with other delicates using a gentle cycle. The agitation from regular wash cycles can be too harsh on modal and cause pilling or fraying over time.
Sort modal clothing by colors and wash in cool water on the delicate or gentle cycle. This will help retain the color and softness of the modal fabric.
Use a Mild Liquid Detergent
Only use a mild liquid laundry detergent when washing modal fabrics, avoiding any detergent with bleach or optical brighteners. Powder detergents can leave residue on the fabric that diminishes softness.
Look for a liquid detergent specially formulated for delicates when cleaning modal. Pre-treat any stained areas carefully before washing.
Skip the Fabric Softener
Fabric softeners and dryer sheets can coat the modal fibers and diminish the signature softness. It’s best to skip the fabric softener altogether when laundering modal clothing.
If you want to reduce static, use dryer balls or a natural alternative instead of chemical-laden dryer sheets.
Reshape While Damp
Modal can wrinkle easily in the wash. To limit wrinkles, reshape garments while they are still damp from the wash. Smooth collars, cuffs, and hemlines back into place before line drying or tumble drying on low.
You can also hang modal garments on hangers immediately after washing. The weight of the water will pull most items back into shape as they dry.
Line Dry or Tumble Dry Low
It’s ideal to line or flat dry modal clothing when possible to avoid heat damage from the dryer. Lay items flat or hang up, reshaping as needed.
If you must machine dry, use the lowest heat setting and remove modal items promptly when finished to prevent over-drying. Excessive heat can destroy the fibers and make modal shrink or pill.
Iron on Low if Needed
Modal can wrinkle more easily than cotton or synthetic blends. You can iron modal fabrics, but use the lowest temperature setting.
Turn garments inside out first before ironing to avoid damaging the face fabric. Always iron when the modal item is damp for best results.
Inspect Before Storing
Before storing washed modal clothes for the season, inspect each item closely. Check for any pilling, pulls, or tears so they can be repaired before putting away.
Then fold or hang modal garments carefully to avoid wrinkles or damage. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.
Hand Wash Delicates if Needed
For delicate modal underwear, lingerie, or swimsuit pieces, it may be best to hand wash instead of using the machine. Use cool water and a gentle soap or detergent made for delicates.
Rinse thoroughly in cool clean water. Reshape and dry flat away from direct heat or sunlight to preserve the modal fibers.
Avoid Chlorine and Sun Exposure
When wearing modal swimsuits or workout gear, rinse off chlorinated pool water as soon as possible after swimming. Chlorine can damage and discolor the fibers over time.
Also, limit sun exposure when wearing modal by seeking shade, covering up, or using sun protective clothing as the rays can fade modal fabrics.
Frequently Asked Questions About Washing Modal
Does modal shrink when washed?
Modal is designed to be shrink-resistant, but excessive heat from machine drying can cause the fibers to shrink slightly over time. To prevent shrinkage, it’s best to line or flat dry modal clothing.
Can you put modal in the dryer?
Yes, you can tumble dry modal on the lowest heat setting possible. Remove items promptly when finished to avoid over-drying which can damage modal fibers. Line drying is ideal if you have the space and time.
What water temperature should be used to wash modal?
Always wash modal clothing in cool water to preserve the shape, fit, color, and softness. Warm or hot water can cause modal fibers to shrink, fade, or pill/fuzz.
How do you get wrinkles out of modal?
Iron modal fabrics on the lowest temperature setting while still slightly damp. Use steam if needed. Reshape garments as they dry to minimize wrinkles. Hang or fold right away to keep the smooth look.
Does modal stain easily?
Modal is prone to staining from oils, lotions, and food or beverages. Pre-treat stains immediately with a delicate stain remover or diluted dish soap before washing to avoid setting in the stain. Wash soon after staining occurs.
Can you bleach modal fabric?
No, never use chlorine bleach when washing modal as it can damage the fibers and cause yellowing. Opt for an oxygen-based bleach detergent if you need help lifting stains from white modal clothing.
Does modal pill easily?
Modal is designed not to pill but fraying and pilling can occur if washed too aggressively. Use a gentle cycle, avoid overcrowding the washer, and line dry to prevent pilling on the surface.
Conclusion
Caring for modal clothing properly will keep the fabric looking and feeling its luxurious best for many wears. By following fabric care instructions, washing gently in cool water with a delicate detergent, limiting heat exposure, and handling modal garments with care, you can extend the life of your favorite modal tees, dresses, activewear and more. With the right laundering and drying, modal will maintain its ultra-softness and keep its beautiful drape and shape for the long term.