Types of Bra Foam Padding
Here are the top three types of traditional foam paddings in bras with their very own trademarks.1. Polyurethane Foam
It is laminated between two layers of fabric. The glue and fabric choice in this foam determines the softness, stretch, and firmness of the bra. The polyurethane foam also varies in thickness; it has thicker foam in the bottom of the cup to provide added push-ups. You can get better breast support and optimise your shape by wearing this type of foam padding. Additionally, this foam will keep you warm in the winter. To avoid damage, do not crush or turn these foam cups inside out. The foam looks yellow when exposed to light, similar to makeup sponges. That’s why both sides of the foam are covered with a layer of fabric and not exposed to your skin.2. Memory Foam
This is the same foam used in memory foam mattresses and pillows. A truly custom-fit foam absorbs your body temperature and adapts the shape of your breasts. When your bra is taken off, the memory foam returns to its original shape. Bras made of memory foam create a smooth, uplifted, seamless silhouette and return to their original shape without creasing. It is less firm than polyurethane foam, providing a different level of firmness and support.3. Spacer Foam
A distinct type of foam compared to memory foam and polyurethane foam. It is similar to corrugated cardboard and can be very lightweight, comfortable, and super-breathable. If you have sweaty breasts or feel hot, spacer foam is a great choice in hot weather. You can identify the spacer foam in the bra by holding the cup between your two fingers and pressing them together. You will feel a temporary collapse of the small air pockets. Spacer foam does not need to laminate fabric on its surface, unlike polyurethane and memory foam. It does not change the colour; white spacer bra foam always stays white. The breathability and lightness make it a very comfortable bra to wear.
All bras with the above foam padding need extra care. They should be washed in warm or cold water by hand and not soaked because the glue or lamination holding the top fabric can unfasten. You should hang these bras to dry instead of putting them in the dryer.
Did You Know?
- Light exposure turns polyurethane foam yellow, so manufacturers cover both sides with fabric.
- Manufacturers customise the structure and performance of polyurethane foam by altering the blend of components and additives.
- Memory foam moulds to your body’s shape as your body heat softens it.
- Manufacturers create memory foam using visco-elastic polyurethane foam.
- Spacer foam bras use a 3D-knitted fabric that wicks heat and moisture away from your body.