What is it?  What is so good about it?  How can I use it? 

"Modal is a bio-based fibermade by spinning reconstituted cellulose from beech trees. It is about 50% more hygroscopic, or water-absorbent, per unit volume than cotton is. It is designed to dye just like cotton, and is color-fast when washed in warm water. Modal is essentially a variety of rayon.

Textiles made from Modal are resistant to shrinkage and fading. They are smooth and soft, more so than even mercerized cotton, to the point where mineral deposits from hard water, such as lime, do not stick to the fabric surface. Like pure cotton, modal should ideally be ironed after washing."  Wikipedia

The folks over at Apartment Therapy had an article on modal bed sheets from Bed Bath and Beyond. 

Under the name Pure Beech, these sheets run around $59.99 for a twin sheet to $99.99 for a queen size.  Bed Bath & Beyond's description also includes this tidbit of information:  "conducted in accordance with ecological standards and sustainability, these sheets contain no pesticides or toxic substances. "  Cool!

There are also bath towels by Martha Stewart and others out there with a modal blend.

I'm actually going to get these modal sheets and I'll let ya'll know how they work out!