Organic Cotton Bras (and how to measure)

Most bras on sale are made from cheap polyester and nylon (plastic). These are not just bad for the planet (and leach microplastics from washing machines into the sea). But also don’t let your skin breathe.

Some have uncomfortable wiring and plastic catches, and are sold in plastic packaging.

Eczema Clothing offers 100% organic cotton bras (no elastane). These are best for the planet, but only in plain colours at present.

For these and others, invest in a microfiber filter (which you can to launder all synthetics, then you catch the microplastics to be sent off for recycling, and get empty cartridges in return). 

Having said that, wouldn’t it be a better country if people switched to more sustainable brands? It would send a strong message on the kind of clothing industry we want. All the following brands are also made ethically and sent in plastic-free packaging.

Also read our post on organic cotton and bamboo underwear.

How to measure your bra size

• Place a tape measure under your breast, and take the reading on a gentle exhale. This is your band size.
• Measure the fullest part of your bust (if you have big boobs, bend forward for a more accurate measurement). You can even take a measure laying on your back, if preferred. This is your bust size.
• Then use an online chart to do the maths (removing one figure from the other, will give you the cup size).

Then it’s a case of trying on different bras, as different stores have different fits:

• If the band rides up, try a smaller band.
• If it digs in, go up a band.
• If your cup spilleth over (!), go up a cup size.

Then remeasure if you gain or lose weight or are pregnant/breastfeeding.

Where to recycle your old bras

You can old bras (even torn or worn) into textile banks. From there, the fabric gets shredded and turned into industrial products like carpet insulation.

Earth Wardrobe (sustainable sports bras)

Earth Wardrobe offers organic affordable undies from Scotland, in pretty colours. Including bralettes.

Nudea Organic Bras (sold in John Lewis stores)

Nudea bras are sold in several styles, all in a range of neutral colours (white, black, fawn etc). You can also send back old bras for recycling.

Royce organic bras (for fuller breast sizes)

Royce organic cotton bra is for larger busts. It offers front fastening up to H cup. Mia Blush is a wire-free organic cotton non-padded bra.

Eden has a front fastening zip and straight back.

Bamboo Clothing (bras for all sizes)

Boody offers bamboo bras. Industrial bamboo is not the same as fresh shoots eaten by pandas. It’s not local but the shoots are quick to grow, and it’s comfortable and breathable. This range offers plus-sizing

Sprout Organics (colourful options from Sussex)

Sprout Organic has colourful options for women. From sustainable fabric in India, then made in a workshop in East Sussex by the sea. All scraps are repurposed and items are sent in zero waste packaging. Trim colours depend on the leftover fabric available.

The bras are suitable for breastfeeding as the cups slide to the side. They are made to order, so you can request shorter or longer straps, or even one cup a different sizes to the other.

Boost (a silicone breathable breast form)

Boost is a breast form made in Cornwall from medical silicone, for women who have had mastectomies. It’s breathable and lightweight, in attractive colours and patterns (breast forms don’t have to be beige and boring!) They are designed to fit inside a standard bra, and there is a ‘curve range’ for fuller shapes.

Some indie shops sell them, and some GPS and Breast Care Teams on the NHS offer them for free, so ask before purchase. Ensure your GP says you are read to wear one, after surgery. 

Please allow up to five days to process orders, as this is a small company. You can send it back for replacement if it doesn’t not fit right, or a full refund.

Sent in a reusable cotton bag, the breast forms should last for years, then are easily recycled. Old forms are made into Flekl, a material used to make lampshades and plant pots.

Read our post on tips to help prevent breast cancer.