What is Spandex and is it Toxic?

November 17. 2008 by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from Beverly

Hi again, 

What is spandex from, and is it toxic or offgassing? 

I'm going through clothes, deciding what to keep and what to do without. 

Thanks, 

Beverly 

Debra's Answer

Spandex, also called lycra, is a synthetic fabric with a plastic base. It has the unique ability to expand up to 600% and spring back to the same size. Spandex is a polyurethane plastic, which is also used to make foam for furniture cushions and mattresses.

Spandex is used in bathing suits, cycling shorts, surgical compression garments, and brassieres, where its ability to wick moisture and stretch is is a benefit to the wearer.

But spandex can irritate sensitive skin, because it contains some harmful chemicals.

Updated November, 2020:  Spandex, also know as elastane or the brand name Lycra, is made of at least 85% polyurethane.  Like other synthetic fabrics, the cause for concern is in the chemicals used during the finishing process.  Some sensitive people may react to spandex due to these chemical treatments.  If you are buying clothes from a company that uses organic cotton and wool, they are likely knowledgeable about the spandex they use and what chemicals it may contain.  Give them a call.  If you are not someone who is sensitive to spandex, I would not be concerned about a small amount of elastic or very low percentage of spandex used in clothing.

Spandex is a synthetic material with elastic properties. Lycra is a brand name of spandex fabric. Spandex is also called Elastaine in some countries. Elastics used in clothing can be a number of different materials that provide stretch. It can be spandex, synthetic rubber or latex or any material that provides stretch.