PFAS, or "forever chemicals", are found in many water-repellent coatings but pose serious health and environmental risks. Here’s a quick guide to spot them:
- No "PFAS-Free" Label: Products without clear PFAS-free claims might contain these harmful chemicals.
- Fluorinated Ingredients: Look for terms like "perfluor-", "polyfluor-", or "PTFE" on labels.
- Extreme Water Beading: Perfect water droplets that roll off effortlessly often signal PFAS use.
- Dual Water & Oil Repellency: If a product repels both water and oil, it’s likely PFAS-based.
- Durability After Washing: Long-lasting water resistance, even after multiple washes, may indicate PFAS.
- Made Before 2025: Older products are more likely to contain PFAS due to fewer regulations.
- Low Price, High Performance: Cheap products with exceptional repellency often rely on PFAS.
- No Environmental Certifications: Lack of certifications like Green Seal or OEKO-TEX can be a red flag.
- Health Warning Labels: Terms like "stain-proof" or "waterproof" may hint at PFAS use.
- Fluorine Test Results: Professional testing can confirm the presence of PFAS.
Quick Comparison Table
| Sign | PFAS-Based Coating | PFAS-Free Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Labeling | No "PFAS-Free" label | Clearly marked "PFAS-Free" |
| Ingredients | Fluorinated compounds | Hydrocarbon, silicone, etc. |
| Water Beading | Perfect spheres | Slightly irregular droplets |
| Oil Repellency | Excellent | Limited or none |
| Durability | Long-lasting after washes | May require reapplication |
| Manufacturing Date | Pre-2025 | Post-2025 |
| Price | Low | Higher upfront cost |
| Certifications | Lacking | Green Seal, OEKO-TEX approved |
| Health Warnings | Common | Rare |
| Testing | High fluorine levels | Low or none |
Switch to PFAS-free products to protect your health and the environment. Look for certifications and labels that guarantee safer alternatives.
PFAS-Free Protective Coatings - WHY They're Better For You
1. Missing PFAS-Free Claims on Labels
If a product's label doesn't say "PFAS-free", it might mean the water-repellent coating contains PFAS. Since federal regulations don’t require companies to disclose PFAS content [4], many products avoid mentioning these chemicals altogether.
Even labels claiming "PFOA-free" can be misleading, as they might still include other types of PFAS [3]. Keep an eye out for these terms on labels, as they could signal the presence of PFAS:
- "Perfluor-" compounds
- "Polyfluor-" ingredients
- "PTFE" (polytetrafluoroethylene)
- "Fluorinated" materials
For added assurance, look for third-party certifications like the MADE SAFE® seal. This certification ensures that a product’s ingredients are thoroughly vetted for both human and environmental safety.
"MADE SAFE® is the only human health and ecosystem-focused product certification program. We do not compromise on ingredient safety - this also sets us apart. We help connect shoppers with goods that reflect their values for a healthier life and planet." [6]
Some companies are taking steps to eliminate PFAS. For instance, Krimson Klover began phasing out PFAS in Fall 2024, with plans for their products to be completely PFAS-free by Spring 2025 [5].
You can also explore alternative treatment options that avoid PFAS altogether, such as:
- Hydrocarbon-based treatments
- Silicone finishes
- Melamine coatings
- Dendrimer-based treatments [7]
2. Fluorinated Compounds in Ingredients List
When reviewing labels, keep an eye out for fluorinated chemicals that suggest the presence of PFAS. While this data is based on cosmetic formulations, similar patterns are found in water-repellent coatings. According to FDA data from March 2022, around 35 types of PFAS were identified in 578 cosmetic products [9]. Beyond marketing claims, the ingredient list often provides a more reliable indication of PFAS usage.
For water-repellent coatings, look for these PFAS-related chemicals:
| Chemical Name | Common Applications |
|---|---|
| Perfluorohexylethyl triethoxysilane | Water-resistant coatings |
| Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) | Fabric treatments |
| Trifluoropropyl cyclotetrasiloxane | Surface coatings |
| Trifluoropropyl cyclopentasiloxane | Water repellents |
The EPA's CompTox database includes nearly 15,000 PFAS chemicals [1]. Common prefixes like Perfluoro–, Polyfluoro–, Fluoro–, and Trifluoro– often indicate fluorination.
It's also worth noting that PFAS can sometimes be present unintentionally, either due to impurities in raw materials or the breakdown of certain ingredients [9]. When shopping for water-repellent products, opt for those labeled as PFAS-free or PFC-free [8]. Many manufacturers are now shifting toward safer alternatives to avoid these compounds.
3. Extreme Water Beading Effects
The way a surface handles water can reveal the presence of PFAS. When you see water forming nearly perfect, high-contact-angle droplets that roll off effortlessly, it often points to PFAS use. This effect comes from the strong carbon-fluorine bonds in PFAS molecules, which create a highly durable water-repellent layer.
According to research by Toxic-Free Future, 72% of stain- and water-resistant products contain PFAS, identified by their flawless, roll-off droplets. However, some PFAS-free treatments - like those used in Clek car seats and certain wool blends - can achieve similar effects through alternative methods[10].
Here’s a quick comparison of water beading characteristics between PFAS-based and PFAS-free coatings:
| Beading Characteristic | PFAS-Based Coating | PFAS-Free Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| Water Droplet Shape | Nearly perfect spheres with high angles | Slightly irregular spheres |
| Surface Interaction | Droplets roll off effortlessly | May stick slightly to the surface |
| Residue | Leaves no trace | Could leave faint moisture marks |
| Durability | Maintains effect after many washes | Effect may wear off faster |
There are alternatives out there - like silicon-based, bio-inspired, or plant-derived coatings - that offer effective water repellency without PFAS[11]. While the water beading might not be as dramatic, choosing PFAS-free products is a safer and more responsible option.
4. Combined Water and Oil Protection
PFAS's ability to repel both water and oil has made it a standout in many applications. This dual repellency is due to its unique molecular structure, which has been hard to replicate with other materials.
"Fluorinated materials offer unique performance and protective benefits for outdoor apparel... Replicating these benefits without fluorinated materials was challenging until now."
– Matt Decker, Global Technical and Innovation Leader for Gore [12]
However, the push for safer alternatives has led to new breakthroughs. One such material is PDMS, a non-toxic and biocompatible option that provides excellent water and oil resistance. Tests show PDMS-treated fabrics achieve water contact angles over 150°, with a much lower toxicity rating (~4.5) compared to PFAS-based coatings, which often exceed 8 [13].
A notable example is Iosso Premium Water Repellent. In January 2025, the company transitioned to PFAS-free technology while maintaining strong oil resistance. This shows that effective dual protection can be achieved without the health and environmental hazards associated with PFAS. This is especially important for products like canvas and laminated or coated solution-dyed acrylics.
When shopping, be cautious of labels claiming both "stain-proof" or "grease-resistant" along with water repellency - these often suggest the use of PFAS.
5. Long-Lasting Effects After Washing
PFAS-based water-repellent coatings are known for their durability, thanks to the strong carbon–fluorine bonds that resist breaking down, even during washing [1]. After five washes, PFAS finishes typically drop to a Grade 3 water resistance. In contrast, PFAS-free alternatives tend to lose their effectiveness more quickly [14].
Here's a quick comparison of how different DWR coatings hold up after washing:
| Coating Type | Initial Water Repellency | Performance After 5 Washes | Oil Resistance |
|---|---|---|---|
| PFAS-Based | Excellent | Moderate to Good | Maintains |
| Hydrocarbon | Good | Poor | Limited |
| Silicone-Based | Very Good | Fair | Minimal |
The long-lasting water repellency of PFAS-treated fabrics comes with environmental trade-offs. A 2022 study conducted in Sydney, Australia, revealed that weathering, abrasion, and repeated washing led to a 20–71% reduction in total fluorine levels in PFAS-treated textiles. This shows that PFAS compounds gradually leach out of the fabric over time [15].
When shopping for water-repellent products, watch out for claims like "permanent" or "lifetime" water resistance. These descriptions often indicate the use of PFAS-based technology. Instead, consider products that require occasional reapplication, as they're more likely to use safer, PFAS-free alternatives.
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6. Products Made Before 2025
Understanding manufacturing dates is crucial when assessing PFAS risks. Products made before 2025 are more likely to contain PFAS due to the absence of strict regulations before that time. Starting January 1, 2025, new rules aim to address this issue. Several U.S. states have already taken action:
- New York State: Bans the sale of new apparel with intentionally added PFAS [17].
- Minnesota: Limits PFAS in items like fabric treatments and textile furnishings [18].
- California: Prohibits the production and sale of textiles with regulated PFAS [18].
These changes clearly separate pre-2025 products from those made under the new guidelines. Here's a quick look at the timeline:
| Timeline | Regulation | Impact on Products |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-2025 | Few restrictions | Higher risk of PFAS content |
| Jan 1, 2025 | State bans take effect | New products must exclude PFAS |
| Jan 1, 2028 | Stricter NY rules kick in | Impacts outdoor gear for extreme wet conditions [17] |
This shift highlights that products made before 2025 are far more likely to contain PFAS. For example, major retailers like REI sold PFAS-based items up until these regulations took hold [10].
"The global PFAS regulatory landscape is rapidly evolving, and each regulation references different PFAS lists, which adds to the challenges of compliance." - Source Intelligence [18]
If you're dealing with pre-2025 products, check their manufacturing dates, reach out to manufacturers for PFAS details, and look for earlier certifications for PFAS-free materials. For instance, Patagonia aimed for its materials to be bluesign® approved by 2015, but only 56% met the standard [16]. This highlights how common PFAS was in water-repellent products before the new rules.
7. Low Prices Despite High Performance
PFAS-based coatings often stand out for their low cost and high performance, but the true expense goes far beyond the initial price tag. These coatings, which range from $50 to $1,000 per pound [21], may seem like a bargain compared to PFAS-free alternatives. However, their long-term costs - financial, environmental, and societal - paint a very different picture.
Here’s a side-by-side comparison to highlight the hidden costs:
| Cost Factor | PFAS-Based Products | PFAS-Free Alternatives |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | $50–$1,000 per pound [21] | Higher upfront cost |
| PFAS Removal Cost | $2.7–$18 million per pound [21] | Minimal remediation expenses |
| Environmental Impact | Extensive contamination | Reduced impact |
| Long-term Health Costs | $57–$92 billion (EU estimate) [22] | Negligible |
Real-world examples demonstrate the hidden financial burden. In Brunswick County, North Carolina, taxpayers are footing a $167.3 million bill for a reverse osmosis plant to clean up PFAS contamination. Similarly, the Cape Fear Public Utility Authority has spent $46 million on filtration systems, with an additional $2.9 million in annual maintenance costs [24].
These examples highlight the economic risks tied to PFAS-based products. Watch for these red flags when evaluating costs:
- Prices far below PFAS-free alternatives
- Unusually low costs for high-performance products
- Stable pricing despite market shifts toward safer options
PFAS-free solutions, like SilcoTek's coatings, offer effective water repellency without relying on PFAS, even though their initial costs are higher [20]. While ceramic coatings may wear out faster than PTFE [19], their overall societal costs - factoring in environmental and health impacts - are much lower.
Industry experts underscore the urgency of addressing these risks:
"Maine is paying the price for a 'broken national system that continues to allow these untested chemicals to be put in the marketplace,'... 'It's dramatically more expensive from a financial and health and environmental perspective than if these substances had been caught on the front end.'" [23]
8. No Environmental Safety Certifications
A lack of certifications focused on environmental safety can often indicate the presence of PFAS in products. Certifications like Green Seal and OEKO-TEX set clear benchmarks for identifying PFAS-free items.
For instance, Green Seal's GS-11 standard, updated on March 11, 2025, ensures products are PFAS-free through third-party testing. Here's a quick breakdown of key certifications:
| Certification | Implementation Date | PFAS Restrictions | Verification Method |
|---|---|---|---|
| Green Seal GS-11 | March 11, 2025 | Complete ban | Third-party testing |
| OEKO-TEX (baby products) | March 31, 2024 | <10 ppm | Certificate verification |
| OEKO-TEX (other products) | March 31, 2025 | <10 ppm | Certificate verification |
Doug Gatlin, CEO of Green Seal, highlights the importance of these certifications:
"Both producers and buyers know the hazards of PFAS but lack reliable ways to ensure products are free of these toxic chemicals" [25][26]
How to Verify Certifications
To confirm a product's certification, take these steps:
- Check the certificate number on the certification organization's website.
- Verify the testing institute credentials listed on the product label.
- Scan QR codes that link to official certification databases.
This process works hand-in-hand with label checks covered earlier.
Recent research shows that around 50% of tested paint products contain PFAS, typically used for water resistance [25][26]. While earlier sections explained how to spot PFAS through ingredient and performance clues, certifications add an extra layer of confidence.
One caveat: Some standards are still evolving. For example, OEKO-TEX certificates don’t always specify which version of the standard a product meets [27]. Always double-check for current compliance.
9. Health Warning Labels
Health warning labels can indicate the presence of PFAS through specific wording and symbols. These labels provide important details about potential PFAS risks beyond the usual performance claims. Research from Toxic-Free Future highlights that stain- and water-resistant products often contain high levels of PFAS[10].
Warning Label Clues
Products with trademarked water- or stain-resistant claims are often linked to PFAS. Studies reveal that items with these claims, such as trademarked water/stain resistance (WS-T), had a 77% detection rate for total fluorine. Additionally, targeted PFAS were found in 64% of these products, compared to lower rates in standard water-resistant items[2].
| Label Type | PFAS Detection Rate | Common Indicators |
|---|---|---|
| Trademarked Water/Stain Resistant | 64% | Teflon, Scotchgard |
| Standard Water/Stain Resistant | 33% | "Stain-proof", "Waterproof" |
| Green Assurance Products | 21% | "Eco-friendly" with water resistance |
These indicators not only point to potential PFAS contamination but also align with growing regulatory efforts.
New Legislative Rules
Starting January 1, 2025, New York State will ban the sale of new apparel with intentionally added PFAS[17]. To meet this requirement, look for products with compliance certifications (like ECL 37-0121) and contact manufacturers to confirm that PFAS haven’t been intentionally added.
"The products where the concentrations were the highest, you could see some sort of fluorinated ingredient."[29]
This shift in regulations highlights the importance of carefully examining product labels.
What to Watch For
Be cautious of products showing these signs:
- Terms like "long-wear" or "long-lasting" paired with water resistance claims
- Ingredient lists containing words like "fluoro" or "PTFE"
- Lack of "PFAS-free" certifications
Keep in mind that terms such as "PFOA-free" or "PFOS-free" only indicate the absence of two specific PFAS chemicals out of thousands[29]. Meanwhile, the International Sleep Products Association is advocating for stronger warning labels. Michigan's SB 735, for example, proposes mandatory warnings about the potential health risks of PFAS exposure[28].
10. Fluorine Test Results
Laboratory testing is a reliable way to detect fluorine content, which helps identify PFAS in water-repellent coatings.
Professional Testing Methods
Scientists use various techniques to analyze fluorine and detect PFAS in materials. Here are some common methods:
| Testing Method | Detection Capability | Typical Use Case |
|---|---|---|
| Total Organic Fluorine (TOF) | >400 ppb | General screening |
| Adsorbable Organic Fluorine (AOF) | 1.5 ppb | Detailed analysis |
| GC-PARCI-MS | Signal-to-noise >50 | Fiber-specific testing |
One study tested twelve stain-resistant clothing items using gas chromatography paired with plasma-assisted reaction chemical ionization mass spectrometry (GC-PARCI-MS). Fluorinated coatings were found in nine items, which demonstrated both oil- and water-repellent properties [30]. These advanced methods are paving the way for both professional and consumer-level testing.
Consumer Testing Options
For those without access to professional labs, there are simpler ways to check for PFAS:
- Water Droplet Test: Place a droplet of water on the fabric. If the droplet beads up and rolls around without soaking in, the fabric may have been treated with PFAS [10].
- Third-Party Testing: Services like Intertek can analyze products for the presence of fluorinated compounds and assess their potential degradation over time [33].
Understanding Test Results
Interpreting the numbers is crucial. Research from Toxic-Free Future indicates that products with over 100 ppm of total fluorine are likely to contain PFAS. Alarmingly, 72% of stain- and water-resistant items tested exceeded this threshold [34].
"PFAS treatments cause the fabric to strongly repel water. If you drop a water droplet onto a PFAS-treated fabric, it will bead up, roll around, and typically leave no residue. In contrast, a droplet dropped onto an untreated fabric will soak in." - Ecology Center [10]
Testing Limitations
Different tests have varying capabilities. Some can identify about 40 specific PFAS compounds, while others measure total fluorine content [32]. The EPA's Method 1621, for example, can detect thousands of PFAS compounds at part-per-billion levels, making it a powerful tool for thorough analysis [31].
The widespread presence of PFAS is alarming. Studies show these chemicals are found in the blood of 97% of Americans [1]. Their resistance to natural degradation stems from the exceptionally strong carbon–fluorine bond, highlighting why PFAS persistence is a growing concern [1].
Conclusion
PFAS in water-repellent coatings pose risks to both health and the environment. As mentioned earlier, opting for PFAS-free options is a safer and more responsible choice.
Switching to PFAS-Free Options
Today’s PFAS-free coatings offer reliable performance without the harmful side effects. Thanks to advancements like nanotechnology and sol-gel systems, these alternatives now rival the durability of PFAS-based coatings.
| Feature | Traditional PFAS Coating | Modern PFAS-Free Option |
|---|---|---|
| Water Repellency | High performance | Comparable performance |
| Environmental Impact | Harmful, persistent | Biodegradable, non-toxic |
| Durability | Long-lasting | Similar longevity with sol-gel systems |
| Cost | Often lower upfront cost | Higher initial investment |
Steps You Can Take
- Look for products labeled as PFAS-free.
- Check for certifications confirming environmental safety.
- Prioritize items produced after 2025 for stricter compliance with updated regulations.
For more guidance, visit sustainabledwr.com. They offer detailed information on PFAS-free water repellents for everything from clothing to automotive applications.
"Modern PFAS-free coatings use advanced technology to provide durable and eco-friendly water and oil resistance, comparable to traditional coatings." – Sustainable DWR Research
Choosing PFAS-free solutions helps protect your well-being and supports eco-friendly production practices.
