FAQ
Fabric, Safety & Materials
What material is CUFT® made from?
Our underwear is made from 100% TENCEL™, a wood-based, plant-derived fiber known for its breathability and softness. Unlike most underwear, which is made with synthetic materials (aka plastic), CUFT® is designed to be a lower-tox alternative that’s gentle on your body.
What certifications does CUFT® underwear have?
CUFT® underwear meets some of the highest global safety and sustainability standards, including:
• OEKO-TEX® Standard 100
• bluesign® approved
• GOTS-aligned material standards
These certifications ensure the product is tested for harmful substances and produced with responsible environmental practices.
Are there any harmful chemicals in CUFT® underwear?
No. CUFT® is designed to be non-toxic and free from harmful substances like PFAS, phthalates, heavy metals, formaldehyde, and azo dyes. All materials are tested under OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and bluesign® standards to ensure safety for sensitive skin.
What chemicals are actually present in the fabric?
Rather than focusing on what’s added, we focus on what’s not present. CUFT® underwear is verified through third-party certifications to be free from known harmful substances. Any materials used are carefully controlled, tested, and approved to meet strict safety standards for skin contact.
Do you use chlorine or chlorine-based treatments in your fabric?
No. There are no chlorine-based treatments used in the fabric or garment production. Any processing of wood pulp happens at the fiber level before production, and the final fabric is certified safe and non-toxic under OEKO-TEX® and bluesign® standards.
What solvents are used in the manufacturing process to get the wood pulp to produce the fibers?
The fibers used in our products (TENCEL™) are produced using a closed-loop solvent spinning process that uses a non-toxic organic solvent (NMMO – N-methylmorpholine N-oxide). This solvent is recovered and reused at a rate of over 99%, meaning it doesn’t remain in the final fiber.
Dyes & Color Safety
Are your dyes free from harmful substances like heavy metals and azo dyes?
Yes. Our dyes are OEKO-TEX® certified and bluesign® approved, meaning they are tested and verified to be free from harmful substances such as:
• Azo dyes
• Heavy metals (lead, cadmium, chromium)
• Formaldehyde
• Phthalates
They are safe for sensitive skin and meet strict global safety standards.
Are your dyes third-party tested for safety?
Yes. Our dyes are verified through OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 and bluesign® certifications, which include rigorous third-party testing for chemical safety, environmental impact, and skin compatibility.
Product Design & Performance
Why doesn’t CUFT® underwear have the same stretch as traditional underwear
CUFT® is made without synthetic fibers like elastane or polyester, which are commonly used to create stretch in traditional underwear. Instead, we use plant-based TENCEL™ and biodegradable materials to keep the product completely non-toxic and plastic-free. Because of this, the feel is more natural and less elastic but significantly cleaner and safer for your body.
How long does CUFT® underwear last?
CUFT® is designed differently than traditional underwear. Most long-lasting garments rely on synthetic blends and polyester threads for durability. Because CUFT® is fully compostable and made from natural materials, it may not last as long as synthetic alternatives but this is intentional and aligned with our commitment to sustainability and non-toxic design.
Will CUFT® underwear lose its shape after washing?
CUFT® underwear is designed to retain its shape with proper care. While it doesn’t contain synthetic stretch fibers, the structure of plant-based TENCEL™ allows it to maintain its form while staying soft and breathable.
Production & Standards
Where do you produce your products?
As of 2026, all CUFT® products are produced locally in Los Angeles, California. This allows us to stay closely involved in every step of the process, reduce our environmental footprint, and better meet the needs of our customers.
What are the benefits of producing in California?
California has some of the most rigorous environmental and manufacturing standards in the world, which was a key reason for our decision to move production locally.
- Stronger environmental protections: California requires businesses to meet strict regulations around air, water, and waste to minimize environmental impact
- Water quality safeguards: Manufacturing facilities must comply with state water protection laws and obtain permits to ensure they do not pollute local water systems
- Cleaner, safer production practices: Regulations limit harmful emissions, chemical exposure, and improper waste disposal, helping protect both people and the planet
For us, producing in California means greater transparency, higher standards, and a continued commitment to creating products that are better for you and better for the planet.
Care Instructions
How should I wash and care for my CUFT® underwear?
To extend the life of your CUFT® underwear:
• Wash cold with like colors
• Use a gentle, non-toxic detergent
• Avoid bleach and harsh chemicals
• Air dry when possible
This helps preserve the integrity of the plant-based fibers and keeps your underwear feeling soft and breathable.
Sustainability & Purpose
Why is CUFT® designed to be compostable instead of long-lasting?
Most underwear is designed for durability using synthetic, plastic-based materials that never break down. CUFT® takes a different approach prioritizing non-toxic, plant-based materials that are safe for your body and can return to the earth at the end of their life. It’s a conscious shift from “long-lasting plastic” to “safe, biodegradable essentials.”
Is CUFT® really plastic-free?
Yes. CUFT® is made without synthetic fibers, elastane, or traditional plastic-based elastic. Even the waistband is made from a biodegradable TPU designed to break down over time, making the entire garment aligned with our plastic-free mission.
Brand & Impact
Is CUFT® a sustainable or mission-driven company?
Yes. CUFT® is a Public Benefit Corporation, meaning we are legally committed to balancing profit with positive impact.
We focus on:
• Women’s health and non-toxic products
• Sustainable, compostable materials
• Ethical sourcing and production
Do you give back?
Yes. For every 3 pairs sold, we donate 1 pair to a woman in need. Giving back is built into our business model — not as an afterthought, but as part of who we are.
Is CUFT® women-owned?
Yes. CUFT® is proudly 100% women-owned and built to support women’s health, confidence, and everyday comfort. We are certified women-owned by WBENC.