What Are PFAS?

PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances) are a group of synthetic chemicals — human generated chemicals which are not biodegradable — developed in the mid-20th century for their unique ability to resist heat, water, oil, and stains. These substances have been used widely in industrial applications and consumer products — from firefighting foams and non-stick cookware to cosmetics and food packaging.

PFAS are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment or the human body. They can travel long distances through air and water, contaminating soil, rivers, and drinking water supplies across the globe. Hence, these chemicals contribute to widespread pollution across the biosphere. Studies have found PFAS in the blood of nearly every human tested, as well as in wildlife, even in remote regions like the Arctic.

Health Impacts

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to a growing number of health concerns, including:

  • Hormonal (endocrine) disruption
  • Immune system dysfunction
  • Thyroid disease
  • Elevated cholesterol
  • Reproductive and developmental problems
  • Certain types of cancer (especially kidney and testicular)

For individuals living with Multiple Chemical Sensitivity (MCS), PFAS exposure may trigger severe symptoms such as headaches, fatigue, respiratory distress, and neurological effects. While everyone benefits from reducing exposure, people with multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) may experience significant improvements in well-being when their environment is free of these persistent pollutants.

Why It Matters for All of Us

Because PFAS are used in so many common products — clothing, cookware, cosmetics, and more — awareness and prevention are key. Limiting PFAS exposure supports not only human health but also biodiversity and environmental protection. The movement toward PFAS-free living is about empowerment, precaution, and collective responsibility — creating homes and communities that nurture rather than harm.

Common Products Containing PFAS

Everyday Sources of PFAS

PFAS are prized for their durability and repellency — but those same traits make them nearly impossible to remove from the environment. Below are some of the most common sources of PFAS in daily life.

Cookware and Food Packaging

  • Non-stick cookware (e.g., Teflon®, PTFE-coated pans) releases PFAS during heating and wear.
  • Food packaging treated to resist grease — like microwave popcorn bags, fast-food wrappers, take-out boxes, and bakery papers — often contains PFAS-based coatings.
  • Reusable containers and baking papers may also include non-stick coatings unless labeled PFAS-free.
  • Papers and liners used to line kitchen cupboards and shelves can be hidden sources of PFAS, as many are treated with grease- or water-resistant coatings to prevent staining and moisture damage.

Choose stainless steel, glass, or ceramic cookware, and store food in glass jars or stainless-steel containers instead of coated paper or plastic. Though some companies may change the names of their product and advertise it as safe, be sure to check the composition of the material.

Clothing, Textiles, and Outdoor Gear

PFAS are used in clothing to make fabrics water-, stain-, and dirt-repellent. Common items include:

  • Raincoats, hiking gear, and boots labeled “waterproof”
  • Upholstery and carpets treated for stain resistance
  • Tents, backpacks, and outdoor gear with durable water-repellent (DWR) coatings

Look for “fluorine-free” or “PFAS-free” gear. Several reputable Canadian and European brands now offer PFAS-free performance lines, including Norden, Vaude, Fjällräven, and Didriksons.

Cosmetics and Personal Care

Many long-lasting, waterproof, or “smudge-proof” cosmetics rely on PFAS for durability and texture. Examples include:

  • Mascara, foundation, lipstick, eyeshadow, and pressed powders
  • Lotions, shaving creams, and sunscreens
  • Dental floss and oral care products

Check ingredient lists for “PTFE,” “perfluoro,” or “polyfluoro.” Use tools like the EWG Skin Deep Database to find PFAS-free alternatives.

Cleaning and Household Products

Some household cleaners and protectants use PFAS to repel water and stains:

  • Furniture and carpet sprays
  • Floor waxes and polishes
  • Specialty cleaning agents and air fresheners

Use biodegradable cleaning products made from natural ingredients — vinegar, baking soda, or eco-certified brands like Ecover or Attitude Living.

Other Exposure Sources

  • Drinking water contaminated by industrial discharge, firefighting foam, or landfill runoff
  • Dust particles in homes with PFAS-treated carpets or fabrics

How to Avoid PFAS

Reducing PFAS exposure may seem challenging, but simple, consistent actions can make a major difference over time.

1. In the Kitchen

  • Replace non-stick cookware with cast iron, ceramic, or stainless steel.
  • Use unbleached parchment paper labeled PFAS-free, such as the “If You Care” brand.
  • Avoid take-out food in grease-resistant packaging; bring your own containers.
  • Filter drinking water using activated carbon or reverse osmosis systems designed to remove PFAS. Trusted Canadian and European brands include Santevia, Aquaovo, ZeroWater, and TAPP Water.

2. In Clothing and Textiles

  • Seek out fluorine-free outdoor gear from companies committed to eliminating PFAS. Trusted Canadian and European brands include Fjällräven, Vaude, Norrøna, and MEC – Mountain Equipment Company, all of which offer PFAS-free performance collections.
  • Buy organic cotton, hemp, or bamboo clothing and bedding.
  • Skip stain-resistant sprays for furniture and carpets.

3. In Personal Care

  • Use PFAS-free cosmetics from Beautycounter, Ilia Beauty, or 100% Pure.
  • Prefer fragrance-free, natural personal care brands, especially for people with multiple chemical sensitivity (MCS) and other conditions, including dermatitis, asthma, migraines and autism.
  • Switch to biodegradable dental floss and natural sunscreen without fluorinated compounds.

4. In Cleaning and Home Maintenance

  • Replace chemical-based cleaning sprays with natural alternatives — vinegar, lemon juice, baking soda.
  • Vacuum regularly with a HEPA filter vacuum to reduce dust exposure.
  • Avoid Teflon-coated appliances (e.g., irons, waffle makers, hair straighteners).

5. As a Consumer

  • Support companies with public PFAS phase-out commitments.
  • Look for eco-certifications:
    • OEKO-TEX Standard 100 (textiles)
    • GreenScreen Certified
    • EWG Verified
    • Nordic Swan Ecolabel

Resources and Further Reading

Here are reliable resources to deepen your understanding of PFAS and access guidance for PFAS-free living:

Government & Scientific Resources

Research and Advocacy

Databases & Tools

PFAS-Free and Organic Alternatives

1. Cookware and Kitchen

Includes information on how to prepare and maintain cast iron cookware for optimal use


2. Clothing and Outdoor Gear


3. Cosmetics and Personal Care


4. Home Cleaning & Maintenance


5. Babies

Babies are especially vulnerable to chemical exposure, making PFAS-free and organic alternatives crucial.

  • Diapers & Wipes: Look for biodegradable, chlorine-free, and PFAS-free options.
    Brands: Naty, Aleva Naturals, Eco Pea Co.
  • Baby Bottles & Tableware: Choose stainless steel, silicone, or glass bottles and feeding sets that are free of PFAS and BPA. Brands: Hevea, Lifefactory, Minika.
  • Baby Clothing & Bedding: Opt for organic cotton, bamboo, or wool fabrics certified by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard). Brands: Petit Lem, Sense Organics, L’ovedbaby.


6. Children

Children’s products—from clothing to toys—can also contain PFAS, flame retardants, and other toxins. Choose safer alternatives for a healthier environment.

  • Clothing: Look for PFAS-free and organic fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, or linen. Brands: Frugi, Mini Mioche, Lana Organic.
  • School Gear: Select backpacks, lunchboxes, and rain gear labeled PFAS-free or made with natural fibers. Brands: Fjällräven Kånken, SoYoung, Vaude.
  • Toys: Choose toys made from untreated wood, organic fabrics, or food-grade silicone. Brands: PlanToys, Grimm’s, Ocamora.


7. PFAS-Free Tents

Traditional tents often use PFAS coatings to make fabrics water-repellent. Fortunately, many outdoor brands now offer eco-friendly, fluorine-free alternatives.

  • Brands:
    • Vaude – Offers fluorocarbon-free waterproofing across its tent and outdoor lines.
    • Fjällräven – Produces PFAS-free tents and G-1000 fabric treated with natural wax.
    • Nordisk – Known for eco-conscious tents using organic cotton and technical PFAS-free fabrics.


8. PFAS-Free Sleeping Bags

Sleeping bags may contain PFAS-based coatings for water and stain resistance. Look for alternatives with organic or recycled materials and natural finishes.

  • Brands:
    • Vaude – PFAS-free sleeping bags made with recycled materials and eco-friendly waterproof coatings.
    • Deuter – Offers PFAS-free sleeping bags with bluesign® certified fabrics.
    • MEC – Carries a selection of PFAS-free sleeping bags and liners.


9. PFAS-Free Camping Gear

Camping gear such as backpacks, jackets, and cooking tools can also be treated with PFAS to repel water and stains. Choose gear that prioritizes sustainable design and safe materials.

  • Brands:
    • Fjällräven uses Greenland Wax as a natural, PFAS-free alternative to DWR coatings.
    • Norrøna – Offers high-performance PFAS-free outdoor gear for all weather conditions.
    • Tentree – Creates sustainable gear and clothing using organic and recycled materials.


10. PFAS-Free Clothing

Waterproof and stain-resistant clothing is a major source of PFAS exposure. Thankfully, many ethical brands are transitioning to safer coatings or natural fabrics.

  • Brands:
    • Vaude – Fully PFAS-free outdoor clothing line with bluesign® certification.
    • Fjällräven – PFAS-free garments using their eco-friendly G-1000 fabric.
    • MEC – Offers PFAS-free rain jackets and outdoor apparel.
    • Nudie Jeans – Organic, PFAS-free denim and clothing made with sustainable, transparent supply chains.

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