Modal in the Fashion Industry: What You Really Need to Know?

Modal may sound futuristic, but it is a textile type that is becoming increasingly popular. Made from the pulp of beech trees, modal is being touted as a sustainable alternative to cotton and synthetics. Sounds good, right? But before you enthusiastically buy everything in modal, it is wise to check the pros and cons. Spoiler alert: not everything is as green as it seems.

Benefits of Modal: Sustainability with a Wink

Modal is often presented as the sustainable material, and yes, there are certainly advantages. The beech trees used for modal grow in sustainably managed forests – FSC certified. This means that these forests are managed responsibly and that nature is not deforested. Also nice: beech wood is renewable. You cut down a tree and, presto, a new one can grow.

But what really matters is the production process. It uses less water and energy than growing cotton. And the chemicals used are less harmful and recyclable, so less pollution. All this ensures that modal clothing lasts longer. Less frequent replacement means less waste – always a plus!

Comfort & Quality: Soft as Butter

What really makes modal popular is its comfort. It's super soft, doesn't shrink, and still looks great after dozens of washes. It's breathable, which means you'll stay nice and cool – ideal for underwear and sportswear. You won't get sweat stains and you won't have to iron it. It's almost too good to be true, right?

The Other Side of the Story: Modal Is Not Perfect

But there is a downside. Modal clothing is often more expensive because the production process is more complicated and the raw materials cost more. In addition, modal requires special care: wash at low temperatures and do not simply throw it in the dryer. That might be asking too much if you want to do your laundry quickly.

Another point of criticism is that modal is still limited in availability, especially in specific styles or sizes. You don't just find it everywhere.

Environment & Social Impact: Criticism of Fast Fashion

Although modal is praised as sustainable, it has been criticised, especially when big brands like H&M adopt it. They claim to be sustainable with their Conscious Collection, but this is often about greenwashing – a way to get a greener image without really making a difference. Yes, modal is better than cotton, but it remains a product that requires chemicals and energy to produce. And let's be honest: how sustainable can fast fashion really be when they produce thousands of new garments every day?

There is also work to be done on a social level. Workers in factories that produce modal are often exposed to hazardous substances and work under poor conditions. Big brands like to claim transparency, but how often do we actually hear about the people who make our clothes?

What is Your Final Verdict?

Modal is certainly a step in the right direction. It's gentler on the environment, super comfortable, and long-lasting. But it also has disadvantages: the price, the care it requires, and the impact of large-scale production.

So, are you going for modal? If you want to shop consciously and are willing to invest in quality clothing that will last longer, it is a good choice. But be critical, especially with big brands that use it to polish their green image. Look beyond the label and choose truly sustainable fashion.