Does Modal Shrink? How to Wash and Dry Modal Clothes Properly

Modal fabric has become a favorite for premium basics because of its incredible softness, breathability, and smooth feel. Fioboc's Modal Blend Collection—including tees, hoodies, sweatshirts, shorts, and underwear—showcases the best qualities of modal: comfort, stretch, durability, and long-lasting color retention.

But many people still have one important question:

Does modal shrink?

And if you own modal clothing you'll want to know exactly how to wash, dry, and care for them properly.

In this comprehensive guide, you'll learn:

• Whether modal fabric shrinks
• Why shrinkage happens
• How modal behaves in blends (like Fioboc's Modal Blend)
• How to wash, dry, and care for modal clothes safely
• The right temperatures and laundry settings
• What to avoid to keep modal soft, smooth, and long-lasting

Let's break it down simply and clearly.

Pure modal fabric generally does not shrink easily, especially compared to cotton. Modal fibers are strong, stable, and designed to maintain their shape through washing and wearing.

However—like any fabric—improper washing or high-heat drying can cause minor shrinkage. This is true for almost all materials, even those labeled “shrink-resistant.”

Fioboc's modal blends are specifically designed to resist:

• Shrinking
• Pilling
• Color fading
• Fit distortion

Fioboc's Modal Blend Collection is built for shape retention, meaning the fit stays consistent even after repeated washes.

So, the short answer is:

Modal does not shrink much when cared for properly.

High heat is the main cause of shrinkage.

The modal generally stays the same size when washed correctly.

However, shrinkage can occur if:

• Water is too hot
• Wash cycle is rough
• Detergent is harsh
• The garment is over-processed in the dryer

Fioboc's Modal Blend fabric is more resistant than many pure modal fabrics because they add:

• Strength
• Flexibility
• Shape memory
• Smooth surface stability

But like any premium fabric, proper care is important to maintain its best qualities.

This is where most shrinkage happens.

Modals should not be exposed to high heat.

High temperatures in the dryer can tighten the fibers and cause slight shrinkage—especially over time.

For Fioboc's Modal Blend clothing, low-heat or air-drying is recommended to preserve:

• Softness
• Shape
• Fit
• Drape
• Stretch recovery

Most modal shrinkage comes from drying, not washing.

Fioboc blends LENZING™ Modal with performance fibers like polyester or spandex (depending on the garment). This blend:

• Improves shape retention
• Strengthens the fabric
• Enhances four-way stretch
• Prevents sagging
• Reduces shrinkage
• Improves durability
• Maintains smooth drape

Fioboc clothing is designed for daily wear, so comfort and longevity are built into the fabric structure.

The Modal Blend Long Sleeve Hoodie, tees, and sweatshirts highlight benefits such as:

• Breathable comfort
• Drape without stiffness
• Wrinkle resistance
• Lightweight yet structured

These are all signs of a high-quality modal blend meant to resist shrinking.

To keep modal (and modal-blend apparel) looking and feeling its best, follow these steps.

Use Cold or Cool Water

Modal does best in cold or cool water. Avoid hot water, which can cause shrinking and weakening fibers.

Recommended water temperature:

• Cold (best)
• Warm on low settings (acceptable)
• Hot (avoid)
• 
  

Use a Gentle or Normal Wash Cycle

Modal fibers are soft and smooth, so gentle washing preserves the fabric surface.

Good options:

• Gentle cycle
• Normal cycle
• Light wash

Avoid:

• Heavy-duty cycles
• High spin speeds

These can overstretch the fabric or cause friction.

Use Mild Detergent

Harsh detergents can strip the fabric's natural softness.

Look for:

• Mild detergent
• Eco-friendly detergent
• Modal-safe or delicate-safe formula

Avoid:

• Bleach
• Strong chemical detergents

Fioboc's fabrics maintain softness best with gentle care.

Wash Similar Fabrics Together

To avoid unnecessary friction:

Wash modal with:

• Other modal pieces
• Cotton tees
• Soft sweatshirts
• Lightweight activewear

Avoid washing with:

• Denim
• Towels
• Heavy fabrics
• Items with zippers or hooks

Modal is smooth and can pill if rubbed aggressively by rough materials.

Drying is the most important step for preventing shrinkage.

Air-Dry for Best Results

Modal air-dries quickly due to its breathable structure.

You can:

• Lay flat
• Hang to dry
• Use a drying rack

Fioboc's Modal Blend clothing maintains perfect drape when air-dried.

If Using a Dryer, Choose Low Heat

Low-heat tumble drying is acceptable for modal blends.

Use:

• Low heat
• Delicate cycle
• Air-fluff or cool setting

Avoid:

• High heat
• Extended drying cycles

High heat affects fiber stability and causes shrinking over time.

Remove Promptly to Avoid Wrinkles

Modal is naturally wrinkle-resistant, especially in Fioboc's structured modal blends. Removing garments quickly from the dryer (or air-drying) keeps them smooth.

Most modal garments do not require ironing—especially Fioboc's Hoodie and tees, which are described as wrinkle-free and structured yet lightweight.

If needed:

• Use low heat
• Avoid steam bursts
• Iron inside out

Modal melts or shines under very high temperatures, so be gentle.

With proper care, modal fabric is known to last a long time because it is:

• Stronger than cotton
• More resistant to shrinkage
• Better at holding color
• Less prone to pilling
• More stable after washing

Fioboc even offers a 120-Day Made to Last Guarantee, showing the brand's confidence in the modal's durability.

Modal clothing retains:

• Fit
• Softness
• Color
• Drape

All while staying breathable, flexible, and comfortable year-round.