What Are “Forever Chemicals” and How Common Are They in Apparel?

From raincoats to food packaging, PFAS in clothing and other products are nearly everywhere. These human-made chemicals, often called “forever chemicals,” don’t break down easily in nature or the body. Their knack for repelling water, grease and stains makes them popular in many industries, especially textiles.

PFAS in clothing brands show up in all sorts of apparel. A study by several groups found that 64% of tested coats, swimsuits and t-shirts had PFAS. Some clothing types are more likely to contain them than others. Spotty labeling makes it tough for shoppers to know which items are safe.

Why Are PFAS Common in Clothing Production?

Water and Stain Resistance Features

In clothing, these long-lasting chemicals keep water and stains at bay. That’s why they’re often used in rainwear, outerwear and performance gear. PFAS in clothing create a strong water-repellent finish, making garments more practical for outdoor or active use.

Durability and Performance Perks

Besides repelling water, PFAS in clothing brands also make fabrics tougher. Their chemical makeup helps clothes resist wear and tear, so they last longer in rough conditions. Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are prized for pushing away water, oil and dirt.

Why Are Governments Banning PFAS in Textiles?

PFAS in clothing cause recycling issues due to contamination. Their staying power harms both people and the environment. Most uses of PFAS in textiles aren’t critical, as other options exist. That’s why countries are pushing for bans.

As of January 1, 2025, New York has stopped the sale of most apparel with intentionally added PFAS. California started a similar ban in January 2025. States like Colorado are doing the same. These rules protect people and nature from long-term risks.

What Health Risks Come with PFAS Exposure?

How Do PFAS Build Up in the Body?

Persistent Chemicals in Blood

“Most folks have PFAS in their blood,” says Dr. Deziel. These chemicals stick around in the body. They pile up over time instead of breaking down or leaving easily.

What Health Problems Are Tied to PFAS Exposure?

Cancer, Hormone Issues and Fertility Concerns

Dr. Deziel and past EPA reports point to health risks like:

• Higher cholesterol
• Weaker vaccine response
• Thyroid hormone changes
• Possible cancers
• Reduced fertility
• High blood pressure in pregnancy
• Delays in child development

These risks raise big worries about long-term contact through everyday items like PFAS in clothing.

Why Is Studying PFAS Health Effects Tricky?

Tracking PFAS is hard. There are thousands of PFAS types, but studies have only looked at a handful. People’s exposure varies by age, surroundings and habits, making research tougher.

Which Clothing Items Often Have PFAS?

What Apparel Is Most Likely to Contain PFAS?

Outdoor Gear, Rainwear, Uniforms and Athletic Wear

This includes things like:

• Raincoats
• Hats
• Mittens
• Ski outfits
• Hiking clothes

“Clothes with water- or stain-resistant finishes might have PFAS in clothing,” says Emma Seymour. This covers uniforms and athletic gear sold as sweat-proof or quick-drying.

Can You Spot PFAS on Clothing Labels?

“If a label mentions ‘fluoro’ or ‘perfluoro’ chemicals, that’s a hint — but they’re not always listed,” says Dr. Deziel. Some brands use fuzzy terms like “water-repellent tech,” which might still mean PFAS in clothing brands.

How Are Governments Controlling PFAS in Clothing?

Which U.S. States Have Banned or Plan to Ban PFAS in Apparel?

New York, California, Colorado and More

Starting in 2026, states like Maine, Vermont, Rhode Island and Connecticut will ban PFAS in textiles and clothing. Illinois, Massachusetts, Washington and Tennessee are working on similar laws.

What’s the EPA Doing About PFAS Production?

This year, the EPA set a rule to stop companies from making or processing 329 unused PFAS types without a full EPA review and risk check.

How Is the Clothing Industry Handling Regulatory Push?

The EU wants to phase out non-vital PFAS uses. Many brands worldwide are rethinking supply chains as shoppers demand PFAS free clothing. But PFAS linger in textile lifecycles, so fully removing them is tough without big changes.

What Should You Do With Clothing That Has PFAS?

Should You Stop Wearing Items That Might Have PFAS?

Balancing Personal Risk and Environmental Harm

“The bigger PFAS exposure risk comes from water or food, not skin contact with an old raincoat,” says Seymour. Throwing out such clothes adds to landfill waste and spreads PFAS.

Does Washing Cut Exposure or Add Pollution Risks?

Microfiber Shedding into Water

“Some studies show washing lowers PFAS levels in fabrics,” says Dr. Deziel. This cuts skin contact but sends PFAS into wastewater.

Practical Tips for Managing Current Clothing

Keep using your current clothes wisely. For future buys, focus on PFAS-free clothing brands. When replacing items, ask brands about buy-back or recycling programs.

How Can Shoppers Buy PFAS Free Clothing?

Can You Trust “PFAS-Free” Brand Claims?

Value of Third-Party Certifications

PFAS can sneak into clothing through cross-contamination. Look for brands promising “no intentionally added” PFAS, backed by third-party certifications for PFAS free workout clothes or outerwear.

What to Check on Labels for Safer Choices?

Key Terms: Fluorinated Compounds, DWR, C6/C8 Chemistry

Look for “fluoro” or “perfluoro” on labels. Skip C6/C8 DWR finishes unless they’re clearly fluorine-free. Better tracking and sorting are needed in manufacturing.

Should You Contact Brands or Recycle Old Clothes?

Yes — asking brands directly can reveal more than marketing materials. Imported textiles often have unknown PFAS levels due to looser rules outside the EU.

Does Gore-Tex Have PFAS? Introducing INVIDIA Textile’s Approach

Does Gore-Tex Use Fluorinated Chemicals in Its Membranes?

Many older waterproof techs, like Gore-Tex, use fluorinated compounds in special formulas. Shoppers wanting PFAS free clothing should check out newer options.

How Does INVIDIA Textile Offer Safer Outdoor Fabrics?

Fluorine-Free Waterproof Innovations

At INVIDIA Textile, we make top-notch technical jackets with fluorine-free coatings. These match performance while keeping health and sustainability first. We offer custom Down/Puffy Jackets, Trench Coats/Blazers, Rainwear, Sporty Coats and etc. They pass tough quality tests with BSCI, GRS, OEKO-TEX and WRAP certifications. OEM & ODM services are available.

Product Categories: Jackets, Activewear and Technical Fabrics

Our lineup includes quilted jackets with seamless welding and sporty coats built with advanced tests like water pressure resistance. Our jackets pass tough fabric strength checks. The materials ensure great warmth and durability.

We help global brands seeking PFAS free workout clothes with smart material sourcing and quality mass production. With a low MOQ of 300 pieces, reach out today.

Why Is INVIDIA Textile Committed to a Fully PFAS-Free Supply Chain?

Sustainability starts with design. Our skilled team delivers precise craftsmanship. Our QA team runs strict checks during production. By cutting out harmful substances, we help partners meet growing regulations while offering premium clothes with no PFAS.

FAQ

Q: How Can I Avoid Buying Clothing with PFAS?

A: Choose third-party certified PFAS-free clothing brands. Avoid vague terms like “durable water repellent” unless they’re clearly non-fluorinated.

Q: Does Nylon Contain PFAS?

A: Nylon itself doesn’t have PFAS, but nylon clothes often get surface treatments with fluorinated compounds unless the maker says otherwise.

Q: Is There a Safe Way to Wash Clothes That Might Have PFAS?

A: Wash sparingly with cool water. Use microplastic-capturing filters if possible to cut pollution from fibers and chemical runoff.