Why is Polyester Batting Toxic?

April 6, 2014 by Debra Lynn Dadd

Question from Jenna

Hi Debra,

Can you please explain to me why polyester batting is toxic? I can't seem to find any specifics on it. All I find is that it's a stable material and, if it remains inside whatever it is (cushion, toy etc.), it's not a danger.

Debra's Answer

I'm going to answer your question with a link to a blog post about polyester, written by two intelligent women who I personally know and admire: Patty Grossman and Leigh Anne Van Dusen at O Ecotextiles. 

They sell upholstery fabrics, so they are interested in textile toxics.

Here's the link: Polyester and our health

Even though this is about polyester fabric, and you are asking about polyester batting, polyester is polyester and plastic is plastic. It's made from crude oil and it outgasses who knows what.

Years ago I decided for myself to minimize plastic in my home as much as possible, especially if it's many hours of contact time, like in a bed, or if it's touching my skin.