Is polyurethane toxic to wear?

Polyurethane is not toxic to wear once it is fully cured and is widely used in clothing, shoes, and accessories. In fashion, polyurethane is used to make faux leather, vegan leather, coated fabrics, raincoats, and stretchy coatings, and in this solid form it is considered safe for skin contact and is not known to leach harmful chemicals under normal wearing conditions. It is used in many everyday items like jackets, bags, and upholstery. However, there are some considerations. During manufacturing, liquid polyurethane contains isocyanates which are toxic, but those react and become inert in the final product. Some people may have skin sensitivity or allergy to polyurethane-coated fabrics, especially if they trap sweat, causing irritation or dermatitis, but this is due to lack of breathability rather than chemical toxicity. Cheap polyurethane faux leather can off-gas slightly when new, producing a plastic smell, so airing it out is recommended. Fully cured polyurethane clothing that is labeled as skin-safe and free of harmful dyes is safe to wear. If you have sensitive skin, look for polyurethane that is certified OEKO-TEX or low-VOC. So wearing polyurethane shoes, jackets, or bags is not toxic, but wearing it while it is still wet or uncured, like fresh polyurethane finish, would be irritating.