Why Conventional Elastane is Toxic — and Why the Biodegradable Elastane Used by Wellicious is Not

Why Wellicious Chooses Biodegradable Elastane

In the world of eco-friendly activewear, stretch is essential. Fabrics need to move with you, offering comfort and flexibility whether you are flowing through yoga poses or enjoying your daily life. Traditionally, this stretch has been provided by elastane (also known as spandex or Lycra®). But here is the uncomfortable truth: while elastane provides excellent functionality, it comes with a heavy environmental cost.

At Wellicious, we have chosen a better way. Our biodegradable elastane combines performance with planet-friendly innovation. But what exactly makes conventional elastane toxic — and what makes our biodegradable elastane different? Let us take a closer look.

The Problem with Conventional Elastane

Conventional elastane is a synthetic fibre made from petrochemicals. It consists mainly of polyurethane, which is derived from fossil fuels. To produce elastane, manufacturers rely on a complex chemical process that involves solvents and substances such as isocyanates, which are harmful to both human health and the environment.

Here is why conventional elastane is problematic for sustainable fashion:

• Non-biodegradable: Traditional elastane fibres can take hundreds of years to break down. During this time, they fragment into microplastics, polluting our waterways and ecosystems.

• Toxic substances: The production of conventional elastane involves hazardous chemicals, some of which can release volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These compounds pose risks to factory workers and surrounding communities.

• Difficult to recycle: Conventional elastane complicates textile recycling. When blended with other fibres, it often renders the entire garment non-recyclable, contributing to fashion industry waste.

What Makes Biodegradable Elastane Different?

At Wellicious, we proudly use certified biodegradable elastane in our Cradle to Cradle Certified® yoga wear collections. This innovative fibre is the result of advanced material science, designed to offer the same stretch and durability, but with a positive end-of-life scenario.

Here is why our biodegradable elastane is a game changer for sustainable yoga & activewear:

• Biodegradable in just a few years: Under industrial composting conditions, our elastane decomposes within a few years, returning safely to nature without leaving behind harmful residues or microplastics.

• Non-toxic ingredients: Our biodegradable elastane is safe. It is degradable and decomposed by bacteria and fungi due to its special design. It is certified to be free from harmful substances that could endanger people or the environment. 

• Cradle to Cradle Certified®: As part of our commitment to circular fashion, our elastane meets rigorous Cradle to Cradle standards, ensuring it is safe for human health and designed for a circular lifecycle.

• High-performance stretch: You do not have to compromise on performance. Our biodegradable elastane offers the same comfort, stretch, and durability as conventional elastane — but without the environmental harm.

Supporting Circular and Sustainable Fashion

At Wellicious, we believe that high-performance fabrics should never come at the cost of the planet. By choosing biodegradable elastane, we are not only reducing waste but also paving the way towards a truly circular fashion system. Our products are designed to be safe for people and the environment — at every stage of their life cycle.

When you wear our sustainable yoga & activewear, you are not just making a style statement; you are supporting a movement towards eco-conscious living and responsible fashion choices.

Until next time,

 

Your Wellicious Team