How to Wash & Care for Your Modal Hijab

Modal hijabs are one of the easiest fabrics to care for — but a few simple habits make the difference between a hijab that stays beautifully soft for years and one that slowly loses its drape. This guide covers everything you need to know.

Why Modal Needs Slightly Different Care

Our modal is derived from beech wood fibres and is significantly finer than cotton. That fineness is what makes it so incredibly soft, but it also means harsh detergents, high heat, and rough handling can break down the fibres faster than with sturdier fabrics. The good news: modal is still one of the most practical hijab fabrics to own — it's fully machine washable and forgiving with everyday care.

Washing Your Modal Hijab

Machine Wash (Recommended)

Modal is machine washable — no hand washing required. Follow these steps:

• Place your modal hijab inside a mesh laundry bag before putting it in the machine. This protects the fabric from friction with heavier items like jeans or towels.
• Set the machine to a gentle or delicate cycle at 30°C or cold. Avoid hot washes — heat weakens modal fibres and can cause slight shrinkage over time.
• Use a mild liquid detergent. Powder detergents can leave residue on fine fibres.
• Do not use fabric softener. Modal is naturally soft — softener actually coats the fibres and reduces their moisture-wicking ability. Skip it entirely.
• Avoid washing with heavily soiled items or anything with zips or hooks that could snag the fabric.

Hand Wash (For Extra Care)

If you'd like to take extra care — especially for darker or more vibrant shades — hand washing is a great option:

• Fill a basin with cool or lukewarm water and add a small amount of mild liquid detergent.
• Submerge the hijab and gently swirl it through the water. Do not scrub, wring, or twist — this can distort the fibres.
• Rinse thoroughly with cool water until the water runs clear.
• Gently press the water out by rolling the hijab in a clean dry towel. Never wring.

Drying Your Modal Hijab

Modal dries quickly — one of its best practical qualities. You have two good options:

• Hang to air dry — This is the gentlest method and our recommendation. Hang the hijab over a drying rack or clothes airer in a well-ventilated space. Avoid direct sunlight, which can gradually fade colour.
• Tumble dry on low — Modal can go in the tumble dryer on a low or delicate heat setting. Remove while still slightly damp and hang to finish drying — this prevents any over-drying that can affect the drape.

Never tumble dry on high heat. High heat is the number one cause of premature wear in modal fabrics.

Ironing Your Modal Hijab

Here's the good news: modal is naturally wrinkle-resistant, and most of the time you won't need to iron at all. After air drying, any light creases will fall out on their own within minutes of wearing.

If you do need to iron:

• Set your iron to a low or synthetic heat setting — never high or cotton.
• Iron on the reverse (inside) of the fabric to protect the surface.
• Use a thin pressing cloth between the iron and the fabric for extra protection.
• A garment steamer on a low setting is an even gentler alternative and removes creases beautifully without any direct contact.

Storing Your Modal Hijab

• Fold loosely or roll rather than folding tightly into a small square — this prevents deep-set fold creases.
• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight or damp areas.
• Modal is forgiving with storage — unlike chiffon, it releases light creases quickly once worn.
• Avoid storing under heavy items that compress the fabric for extended periods.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• ❌ Hot washing or tumble drying on high — the single biggest cause of modal ageing prematurely.
• ❌ Using fabric softener — it feels counterintuitive, but softener dulls modal's natural softness over time.
• ❌ Rubbing or scrubbing stains — blot stains gently and treat with a small amount of mild detergent before washing normally.
• ❌ Leaving damp in the machine — remove promptly after the cycle ends to prevent musty odours setting into the fibre.

Does Modal Shrink?

When cared for correctly — cold or 30°C wash, low heat drying — modal is dimensionally stable and will not shrink or stretch. Repeated hot washes are the only scenario where you may notice slight shrinkage over many cycles. Stick to cool temperatures and your hijab will maintain its size and drape indefinitely.

How Often Should I Wash My Modal Hijab?

Modal's moisture-wicking properties mean it stays fresher for longer than many fabrics. For everyday wear, washing after 2–3 wears is perfectly fine. For occasions where you've perspired more or worn it for a full day outdoors, wash after each wear. The fabric handles frequent washing exceptionally well.

Ready to Shop?

If you're looking to add to your collection, browse our full range of modal hijabs — available in a wide range of colours, from everyday neutrals to rich seasonal tones. Pair with our jersey undercap for the perfect base layer, and our hijab magnets for a secure, pin-free finish. You might also enjoy our chiffon hijab collection for a lighter, more formal alternative.