Modal vs. Cotton: Which Fibre Suits You?

Modal is a cellulose fiber made from beechwood that drapes with a silky smoothness. Cotton is a natural fiber that feels familiar against the skin. Both are suitable for underwear, but they feel different: Modal has a smoother, silkier effect, while cotton feels more voluminous and uncomplicated. In this comparison, we will show you how Modal and cotton differ in terms of feel, durability, and care, and which fiber is a better fit for you.

Modal belongs to the cellulose-based regenerated fiber family. Its raw material is wood—in our case, beechwood. We exclusively use TENCEL™ Modal from Lenzing. The wood comes from FSC- and PEFC-certified forestry, and an oxygen-based process (Eco Clean) is used for bleaching. So modal is not a natural fiber like cotton: the wood is first broken down into pulp and then spun into a new fiber, more on that in our modal material guide.

You can identify Modal on the skin immediately: it drapes smoothly, hugs the body, and maintains its shape well.

Cellulose fiber made from beechwood (TENCEL™ Modal by Lenzing)
Silky-smooth, shape-retentive
Only available in our women's collection

Cotton at a glance

Cotton is the natural fiber most people are most familiar with. Depending on the item, we use cotton from certified organic farming (kbA), from the transition to organic farming (Cotton in Conversion, CiC), or in individual cases, from conventional farming. The gusset material in our Casual Cotton and Light Touch women’s bottoms uses conventional cotton. You can find out which quality is used in each item on the respective product page.

Cotton is uncomplicated. It can withstand higher wash temperatures and is a safe choice if you want a pure natural fiber directly against your skin.

Depending on the item: organic cotton (kbA), Cotton in Conversion, or conventional cotton
easy-care
Classic and familiar on the skin

The direct comparison

Feel and comfort

Modal drapes more smoothly and finely, almost like silk. Cotton feels more voluminous and uncomplicated. If you want underwear that doesn't show under tight-fitting clothing, Modal is the winner. If you like the familiar, natural feel of cotton, it remains the first choice.

Durability and care

Cotton can withstand higher temperatures. Modal is shape-retentive and maintains its smooth surface, but prefers cooler wash cycles. A quick rule of thumb: wash cotton at 30-40 °C and Modal at 30 °C using a delicate detergent. Neither needs the tumble dryer.

Modal is a good fit for you if you want silky-smooth underwear that disappears under clothing. If you are looking for a specific style, check out our Modal underwear—all models are made from TENCEL™ Modal by Lenzing.

Cotton is a better fit for you if you prefer pure natural fibers, like things to be uncomplicated, and value a familiar tactile feel. Depending on the item, our cotton basics are made from organic cotton (kbA), Cotton in Conversion, or conventional cotton.

If you want to dive deeper, you can find details in our material guides on Modal and organic cotton (kbA).

Frequently asked questions

Is Modal more sustainable than cotton?

That depends on your criteria. Modal is extracted from wood; our TENCEL™ Modal by Lenzing comes from FSC- and PEFC-certified beechwood. Cotton is a natural fiber—ours comes from certified organic farming (kbA), Cotton in Conversion, or in individual cases, conventional farming, depending on the item. Both have different strengths; a general rating would be dishonest.

What is better for sensitive skin, Modal or cotton?

Modal is particularly smooth and hardly causes any friction, while cotton is familiar. Which fiber feels better for you is often a matter of personal preference.

How do you wash Modal and cotton properly?

It is best to wash Modal at 30 °C with a delicate detergent. Cotton can withstand 30-40 °C. You can skip the tumble dryer for both, which is gentler on the fibers. When in doubt, check the care label of the specific model.

Does Modal wrinkle less than cotton?

Yes, as a rule, Modal wrinkles less than pure cotton because the fiber is smoother and more shape-retentive. For underwear, this is barely noticeable in everyday life.

What is Micro Modal?

Micro Modal is a particularly fine version of the Modal fiber. It drapes even more lightly and smoothly, but the material base remains the same: cellulose from beechwood.