How to Iron modal fabrics? (Comprehensive guide)

The best way to iron a modal fabric is to place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric and then iron it on a medium heat setting. Putting a pressing cloth between the fabric and the iron will avoid direct contact with the heated iron’s soleplate.

While ironing, it is important not to use an excessively high temperature, as this can damage the fabric.

Be it a modal fabric or a blend with any other type of fabric, ironing should always be done on low heat settings.

The preferred way to iron such delicate fabrics is from the interior.

When ironing, you can also spray a little water on it and cover it with a press cloth.

What is a modal fabric?

Modal fabric is a type of fabric made from the fibers of the beech tree. Through a chemical process, the wood pulp is broken down into a cellulose solution, which is then used to make filaments.

In other words, it is simply a type of rayon, or man-made cellulose fiber, that is produced through the spinning process.

The pulp is dissolved in caustic soda and then forced through tiny holes in a metal plate.

As the fibers come out of the other side of the plate, they are condensed into a liquid state and then drawn out into long strands.

The advantage of modal fabric over other types of knit fabrics is that it is extremely strong and durable.

They are best known for their softness and silk-like feel.

In addition, modal fabric has a high moisture absorbency rate, making it ideal for activewear, lingerie, and other inner garments.

Does modal fabric need to be ironed?

Ironing modal fabrics is generally not necessary, as they are designed to resist wrinkles.

However, woven modal fabrics like cotton need a bit of ironing to achieve a crisper look.

So, if you do need to iron your modal fabric, use a low setting and be sure to avoid over-ironing, as this can damage the fibers.

You can also consider steaming your modal garment to get rid of wrinkles safely.

The bottom line is that, for any specific garment made with a blend of modal and other fabrics, you can iron them on low heat settings, and whenever in doubt, place a protective cloth in between the iron and fabric to avoid any damage.

How to iron a modal fabric?

Modal fabrics should be ironed with utmost care because they are less resistant to heat.

You should not iron such fabric types for too long, as they can easily get damaged.

For best results, place a pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric and then iron it on

Here are the step-by-step instructions for ironing the modal fabrics effectively.

Step 1: Preheat the iron

Preheating an iron should be the first step whenever you iron any type of garment.

It will take about a minute or two, or even less, depending on the model of your iron.

Step 2: Use low heat settings

Set your iron to the “low” or “delicate” setting if you’re not sure what temperature to use.

Note: You can also sprinkle a little water by hand or using a spray bottle. Ensure not to wet the fabric excessively. This method protects delicate fabrics from damage caused by overheating or melting. 

Step 3: Start ironing 

Start by ironing the areas that will be most visible, such as the collar, cuffs, and hem.

Iron your clothes by moving the iron back and forth in a consistent motion, making sure not to press too hard on the fabric.

If you have a steam iron, simply use this specific feature for all delicate garments, including the modal fabric.

With that said, if your iron doesn’t have a steam feature, place a clean, damp cloth over the area of the fabric you’ll be ironing and then start ironing.

This will help protect the fabric and prevent scorching.

Note: The preferred way to iron modal fabric is from the interior (i.e., the reverse side or inside out). If you see any water droplets appear on the surface of the fabric, that’s ok. Just make sure to remove them before they evaporate and leave behind mineral streaks.

Step 4: Reverse the garment

Once you’ve finished with the visible areas, move on to ironing the rest of the garment.

Simply turn the fabric over and iron the other side in a similar way.

Step 5: Post-ironing step

When you’re done ironing your modal fabric, hang it up or fold it right away to keep wrinkles from coming back.

If you want to directly wear them, they are good to go.

For bedsheets, you can spread them out over the bedding.

How to iron cotton modal blended fabric?

Woven modal fabrics, such as cotton, are a blend of both, which makes them durable and soft.

When ironing, you should use a low setting on your iron.

Also, you shouldn’t iron over any embellishments, buttons, or embroidery, as this can damage the fabric.

To get the best results, iron your cotton modal fabric from the inside out.

And be sure to use a press cloth in between the iron and the fabric to protect it from becoming damaged.

Note: It’s recommended that you read the care label before ironing any fabric. This will ensure that you are handling them correctly and avoiding any irreversible damage to the fabrics.

Final Thoughts

It is very important to set the iron to the right temperature before you use it, especially if you plan to iron something delicate.

You can use an ironing board if one is available. However, if you don’t have one, using any other padded flat surface should do the trick.

If your fabric is delicate, like a modal fabric, you may want to use a pressing cloth between the fabric and the iron.

When using a back-and-forth motion with your iron, be sure to press firmly but not too hard.

Finally, if you iron these fabrics for too long, the fibers may melt and become damaged.

Frequently Asked Questions