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Micromodal vs. Cotton: What’s The Difference?

Micromodal and cotton are two of the most commonly used fabrics that are known for their softness and comfort feel. Both of these materials are breathable, thus offering a pleasant and soothing experience. Apart from their similarities, they differ in terms of their price range, shrinking resistance, and permeability. These two materials have their positive and negative aspects when compared side by side.

Key Takeaways

  • Micromodal fabric is much softer than items made out of cotton fabric, it has a silky texture behind it.
  • Micromodal is resistant to shrinking and wrinkles in comparison to cotton.
  • Cotton fabric is produced from natural materials as opposed to micromodal fabric which is semi-synthetic.
  • Sportswear and underwear made out of micromodal fabric are more absorbent than pieces of clothing created from cotton.
  • Although cotton is much cheaper than micromodal, people often prefer paying more money to get comfort, practicality, and ultimate satisfaction when it comes to the clothes they are wearing on the daily basis.

Micromodal vs. Cotton – How do they differ?

When comparing these two fabrics, the most frequently discussed difference is their softness. Micromodal is believed to be much softer to the touch as opposed to cotton. With its softness, micromodal offers a luxurious feeling because it reminds people of a silky fabric. Whereas cotton is also soft and comfortable, it is not as durable and long-lasting as micromodal.

However, this is probably because micromodal is not a 100% natural fabric as opposed to cotton. Natural fabrics blended with synthetic ones are usually more durable and easy to take care of. Because of the reason that micromodal is tightly woven, cotton is a much more breathable fabric. Both fabrics also differ in terms of their thickness and density. While cotton fabrics can be produced in different thicknesses, micromodal fabric is very thin and it can become even thinner with every wash.

Micromodal is much more water-resistant, shrinking-resistant, and easier to dry in comparison to cotton. However, micromodal is also more expensive than cotton because it looks lavish and extravagant with its silky feel. Furthermore, the process of producing it can be very pricey. In contrast, cotton can be found for a much cheaper price because the cost of the production process is significantly lower.

The price difference

Micromodal is produced from hardwood trees by extracting cellulose. The next step is going through a chemical process, then combining it with a synthetic fiber in order for it to be transformed into fabric. This process is very complex and delicate which is why the price of buying items made of micromodal is higher. In order for it to get a tighter weave, more fibers need to be used, thus increasing the value of the micromodal.

Cotton fabric is produced by turning the natural cotton into thread and turning the thread into fabric by weaving. It is much easier to produce in comparison to micromodal which is the reason why cotton is less expensive to buy. People often opt for a luxurious feel, stretch, and comfort, stating that more expensive items or fabrics are more high-quality and durable. Before buying clothes, it is important to consider how that piece makes you feel, even if it is expensive. Sometimes, spending more money on a piece of clothing means that it will last a long time.

The shrinking resistance

Cotton is considered to be a long-lasting and comfortable fabric. However, it is not resistant to shrinking, and clothes made out of cotton can easily lose their shape after a few washes. In comparison to cotton, micromodal fabric will not shrink if it is properly taken care of. It is known to retain its shape no matter how often it is washed or dried.

This is a result of the stronger fibers contained in micromodal fabrics and their stretchiness prevents them from getting wrinkly. However, it can still slightly shrink if it is not properly taken care of. For example, using high heat can result in shrinking micromodal fabrics so it is always very important to read the instructions to avoid damaging the fabric. Both of these fabrics feel great on the skin; it is only a matter of practicality that needs to be considered when shopping.

The difference in their absorptive power

The most commonly used fabric around the world is cotton because of its power to be very moisture absorbent, breathable, and comfortable. During the warmer months, people usually prefer clothing that will not make them sweat, and will not hold any odors, which is why they usually choose the cotton fabric. Cotton keeps the necessary refreshment during the day without leaving any stickiness or uncomfortable perspiration. However, micromodal fabric is proven to be much more absorbent than cotton.

Workout clothing and sportswear, in general, contain micromodal because of its stretchiness, power to absorb moisture twice as much as cotton as well as providing a lightweight and luxurious feel. Micromodal fabric does not stick to the skin, thus creating discomfort. It absorbs the moisture from the skin through the fabric and out in the air. Apart from active wear, micromodal is very famous for producing underwear.

Because of its absorptive power, it does not retain heat, sweat, or odors, making it very practical and easy for regular use. Although both of these fabrics are very absorbent, micromodal has a significant advantage when it comes to efficiency, sophistication, and usefulness.


Final Verdict

By comparing both fabrics together with their positive and negative sides, if a person is physically active they should obviously choose micromodal because of its durability, sensual feel, and practicality. Micromodal is not the best fabric when it comes to taking care of the environment and sustainability since it is a semi-synthetic fabric. However, the cotton fabric containing 100% natural properties may not be enough in some cases in terms of its strength.

Also, cotton is not resistant to shrinking which makes it even less practical than micromodal for a person who is active and busy all the time. Taking care of the clothing you own is very important no matter what fabric it is made out of. But in spite of that, nowadays living a fast-paced life requires people to opt for faster, easier, and more effective options by choosing clothes produced from materials that require less effort to look good.

Further Reading

You probably enjoyed what you’ve read so far, so keep reading our articles.

The question of whether you may iron wool is addressed in one article, while the distinctions between Tulle and Chiffon are covered in another.

Another blog describes what Air Fluff on a dryer is. You can find a comparison of the Brother AS2730S and Brother LX27NT.

Don’t miss out on my fantastic selection of  Janome sewing machines.

Enjoy!