Polyurethane Foam in Bra Padding

Clothing & Shoes
Written By Debra Lynn Dadd

October 13, 2008, by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from KRB

I have recently found out that some bra companies are using polyurethane foam in the padding. I was shocked to see it on the label. The specific brand is Hanes and Barely There. I am wondering about the use of it in bras. How can this be safe? Are there safe alternatives? Some companies don't list what is in the padding. Thanks for your input. 

Debra's Answer

Polyurethane foam is a plastic, and so is the polyester fabric used to made padded bras. I can't help but think that it could be absorbed through the skin.

There are bras made from natural fibers. One website that specializes in natural fiber undergarments is Decent Exposures.

Depending on how much support you need, you might consider not even wearing a bra. I gave mine up years ago.

Toxic-Free Q&A

These are archives of Q&A asked by readers and answered by Debra Lynn Dadd (from 2005-2019) or Lisa Powers (from 2019-2020). Answers have been edited and updated as of December, 2020.

Debra Lynn Dadd