Hydrophilic foamed plastics

A hydrophilic foamed plastics materials, preferably polyurethane foam, incorporates a non-ionic surfactant comprising an ethoxylated fatty acid. The fatty acid preferably contains ethylene oxide in an amount greater than 50% by weight. The ethylene oxide may be used alone or mixed with propylene oxide or butylene oxide. The preferred fatty acid is oleic acid. The polyurethane foam may be produced from a reaction mixture comprising a polyester resin, an aromatic polyisocyanate, a blowing agent, a catalyst and a cell regulating agent or foam stabilizer. The foam stabilizer is preferably non-silicone based, e.g. a sulphated or sulphonated ester of a propylene oxide or ethylene oxide / fatty acid reaction product. Uses:- Household sponges, surgical and household wipes, condensation strips, floor maps and paint rollers.