Modal or bamboo viscose, the two soft fibres in women's clothing

Short answer: Modal and bamboo viscose are both soft fibres made from plant cellulose. Modal often comes from beech wood, bamboo viscose from bamboo. They feel alike to many people, and the difference lies mostly in the raw material and in how the individual garment is made.

What they have in common

Both modal and bamboo viscose are regenerated cellulose fibres. That means the cellulose of the plant is dissolved and spun into a new fibre. The result is a soft, smooth yarn with a light drape. Many people cannot feel a difference, and both are used in everyday clothing. See a selection of bamboo T-shirts for women.

What sets them apart

The difference lies mainly in the raw material. Modal is usually made from beech wood, while bamboo viscose is made from bamboo. The production is a chemical process in both cases. The name therefore tells you mostly where the cellulose comes from, and not how the fabric feels in a particular T-shirt.

How they feel

Both are often described as soft, smooth and lightly fluid. How a T-shirt feels depends more on yarn, knit and finish than on the fibre name. Two T-shirts in the same fibre can feel different. It is best to feel for yourself if you can, and otherwise read the description.

Moisture and warmth

Both modal and bamboo viscose absorb moisture and often feel pleasant in warm weather. They dry more slowly than synthetics. For everyday wear and calm days that is fine, but for hard training another fabric may be more practical. This is true of both fibres.

Durability and care

Both fibres can be sensitive to heat and rough washing, so follow the care label in the garment. Choose a gentle programme and avoid fabric softener and high heat. Let the garment dry completely. How long it lasts depends more on care and quality than on which of the two fibres it is.

Blends in practice

Many T-shirts are blends, where viscose or modal is mixed with elastane or other fibres. That affects stretch, drape and durability. Always read the fibre content on the individual garment, and do not let the fibre name alone decide. Also see bamboo underwear for women.

What to choose

If you like how a T-shirt feels and fits, the fibre name is rarely decisive. Choose by fit, thickness and care. If you have a T-shirt you like, the fibre content on the label tells you what to look for. For layers, see bamboo hoodie for women.

Frequently asked questions

Are modal and bamboo viscose the same?

No, but they are similar. Both are regenerated cellulose fibres, modal from beech wood and bamboo viscose from bamboo. How they feel also depends on yarn and knit.

Which fibre is softer?

It depends on the individual garment. Both can be soft, and yarn, knit and finish matter at least as much as the fibre name.

Can I wash them the same way?

Always follow the care label on the individual garment. Both fibres are often best served by gentle washing and no high heat.

You can find the full range at Copenhagen Bamboo.