Bamboo viscose or modal

Short answer: Modal is also a cellulose fibre and is very similar to bamboo viscose. Modal is a little stronger and shrinks less, while bamboo viscose drapes slightly more heavily. In everyday wear most people find the difference hard to notice.

Both are regenerated fibres

Modal and viscose are made in the same basic way. Cellulose is dissolved and spun into new fibres, which are then knitted or woven into fabric. The difference is that modal is treated to make the fibre stronger. Both are used for soft fabrics worn close to the skin, like bamboo slips.

Strength and shrinkage

Modal handles washing a little better and shrinks less. That is why it is often used for underwear and nightwear that go through many washes. You will find the same kind of pieces in bamboo panties. Bamboo viscose can also last well, but it needs gentle washing and air drying.

How it feels on the skin

The two are very close. Most people cannot tell them apart without looking at the label. Both are smooth, soft and comfortable against the skin, even after a long day. Look at the qualities in women's clothing and feel for yourself which drape you prefer.

Drape and look

Bamboo viscose drapes slightly more heavily and settles close to the body. Modal is a little lighter and can feel firmer in shape. The difference shows most in loose pieces like dresses and slips, where the drape is visible. In close-fitting underwear it is almost impossible to notice.

Moisture and comfort

As cellulose fibres, both modal and bamboo viscose absorb moisture from the skin and release it again. That makes them pleasant to wear all day and at night. There is no big difference between the two here. Both suit clothes that sit close to the body for many hours.

Care and washing

Both do best at 40 degrees with air drying. Turn clothes inside out and use a mild dose of detergent. Modal handles the washing machine slightly better, but the tumble dryer is not good for either. Follow that advice and the fabric keeps its softness and fit for a long time.

Blends of the two

Modal and viscose are often blended with each other or with other fibres. This combines the strength of modal with the softness and drape of viscose. On a care label you may therefore see both listed for the same piece. That is quite normal and not a sign of lower quality.

Which should you choose

For everyday wear the difference is so small that you can choose by style, colour and fit. If minimal shrinkage matters to you, modal can be a small plus. If you prefer the heaviest and softest drape, that points to bamboo viscose.

Frequently asked questions

Is modal better than viscose

Not better, but a little stronger and less prone to shrinking. In everyday wear the difference is hard to feel, and both are soft against the skin.

Can they be blended

Yes, and it is often done to combine strength with softness. That is why you often see both modal and viscose on the same care label.

Is modal also made from bamboo

Modal is most often made from beech wood, but the process is the same as for bamboo viscose. It is the raw material that differs, not the basic way the fibre is made.