PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, have quietly crept into our closets disguised as convenient and high-performing essentials. 

Dubbed 'forever chemicals' due to their stubborn persistence and potential health risks, PFAS are rampant in clothing – particularly activewear.

What you wear against your skin can make a big difference to your health, performance, and the planet. 

In this guide, we’ll dive into the essentials of PFAS in clothing, explain their impact, and share simple, actionable steps to help you avoid them. 

From choosing safer fabrics to finding trusted certifications, we’ve got you covered.

Because you deserve clothing that’s better for you and the world. No compromises.

Let’s dive in!

Table of Contents: 

• PFAS in Clothing and Activewear: Key Takeaways 
• What Are PFAS?
• What Fabrics Contain PFAS?
• Why Are PFAS Used in Clothing?
• Are PFAS in Clothing Dangerous?
• The Problem with PFAS and (Ultra) Fast Fashion
• PFAS in Clothing: Regulations and Movements
• The Prevalence of PFAS in Activewear
• How to Avoid PFAS in Clothing and Activewear: Your Practical Checklist
• A Quick Note on Certifications and PFAS in Clothing
• Tripulse's Toxin-Free Approach
• PFAS in Clothing and Activewear: More Helpful FAQS
• Conclusion

PFAS in Clothing: Key Takeaways 

• PFAS are everywhere. They are used in fashion to enhance clothing performance–think durability, moisture-wicking, and stain resistance. Hence why they are commonly used in activewear.
• PFAS are pervasive and very hard to destroy. They’ve spread to the air, water, soil, and even our bodies. These chemicals are linked to serious health and environmental risks.
• PFAS can enter the body in various ways, with skin contact being a significant concern – particularly when sweating in synthetic, chemically-treated activewear.
• The rules are changing around PFAS. New laws in the US and EU, along with stricter textile certifications, are pushing to phase out PFAS in clothing.
• PFAS are complex. Our understanding of these chemicals is still evolving. This means it makes it tricky to completely avoid them.
• But you can take control. Exploring natural performance fabrics with credible certifications like GOTS and OEKO-TEX®, and choosing transparent brands that manufacture in countries with strict regulations for chemical use are powerful ways to avoid PFAS exposure. 
• Start small. Throwing out all your plastic, chemically treated clothing is neither practical nor sustainable. Begin replacing the essentials closest to your skin–such as activewear and underwear–where PFAS exposure is more likely. Better living takes time. It’s about making progress, not perfection!
• Think beyond PFAS. PFAS are just one of many possible toxins in clothing. Even if a garment has been tested for forever chemicals, it could still contain other harmful substances. As mentioned, look for credible certifications to ensure a broader range of toxins are tested and consider where the garment is made. 

Experience the performance, comfort, and peace of mind you deserve with clean activewear powered by nature (not PFAS!)

What Are PFAS?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large, diverse group of thousands of synthetic chemicals. They’ve been around since the 1940s and are widely used in consumer products and industrial processes.

PFAS are so popular because of how effective they are at resisting water, stains and heat. From clothing to cookware, PFAS have long been the ‘secret sauce’ behind high performance and durability.

The problem with PFAS lies in their persistence. In other words, it takes a very long time for them to break down in the environment. Hence why they’re often called ‘forever chemicals’!

PFAS are categorized into two main groups: polymeric PFAS and non-polymeric PFAS. Both are used to treat clothing and textiles:

• Non-polymeric PFAS: Small molecules that are considered extremely mobile types of PFAS. They are harder to break down and can easily be absorbed into the body and environment.
• Polymeric PFAS: Larger molecules made up of repeated units of the same chemical. They tend to be more stable and not as mobile. Although they are less likely to break down, some of these polymers can still degrade over time. In fact, polymeric PFAS can release harmful non-polymeric PFAS into the environment. 

"Until recently, regulatory authorities mostly focused on non-polymeric PFAS since these can be taken up by living organisms. In contrast, polymeric PFAS are generally not easily taken up by living organisms due to their larger molecular sizes. However, the degradation of both polymeric and non-polymeric PFAS into smaller, persistent and bioavailable compounds is an environmental and human health concern." – The European Environment Agency

What Fabrics Contain PFAS?

PFAS can linger in almost any type of clothing, especially those made to perform. That’s why they are often woven into everyday staples like activewear, rain jackets, and underwear. 

PFAS are even used in children’s uniforms because of their ability to resist stains. 

Why Are PFAS Used in Clothing?

Surprised that PFAS might be hiding in your wardrobe? You’re not alone. 

For years, the fast fashion and textile industries have had a particular penchant for PFAS. 

This is because these chemicals give garments the qualities many wearers love. A dose of PFAS helps your clothing resist dirt, moisture, and everyday wear. Side-chain fluorinated polymers (SCFPs) are just one example of the type of PFAS used in textiles. 

While PFAS offer many performance advantages, the hidden dangers far outweigh the perks. Keep reading to find out more! 

Are PFAS in Clothing Dangerous?

Yes, PFAS in clothing can be dangerous. Not just for the environment, but for our health too.

Until relatively recently, the spread and impact of PFAS has been largely overlooked. While efforts to ban them from clothing are gaining momentum (more on this later!), they remain a major cause for concern.

PFAS are incredibly toxic and have crept into just about every corner of the world, including our bodies. Alarmingly, studies show nearly all Americans have PFAS in their blood. 

PFAS are capable of travelling untouched across vast distances, seeping into the air, soil and water. They are even invading some of the most remote places on Earth – far from where they were initially manufactured.

How Do PFAS Enter the Body?

PFAS can be inhaled, ingested through food, or absorbed via contaminated drinking water. New research also reveals one of the most significant pathways for PFAS is through the skin. When we wrap ourselves in PFAS-treated clothing, we unknowingly increase the risk of absorbing these harmful chemicals.

“This study helps us to understand how important exposure to these chemicals via the skin might be and also which chemical structures might be most easily absorbed.” – Professor Stuart Harrad, of the University of Birmingham’s School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences.

Plus, PFAS have a strong chemical structure making them extremely resistant to degradation. Rather than breaking down, they build up in people, wildlife, and the environment, becoming more potent and toxic over time.

Further research is needed to grasp the full impact of these pervasive chemicals. Yet what we currently know is exposure can pose a significant risk to our health. PFAS are linked to a myriad of health problems, including immune disruption, fertility issues, and cancer. 

Different types of PFAS can interact in unpredictable ways. Experts call this the ‘cocktail effect’ and warn that PFAS mixing can increase health risks.

In Europe alone, human exposure to PFAS is estimated to cost a staggering €52-84 billion in annual health expenses!

"I think the biggest thing is [...] that PFAS are forever chemicals. They take a really long time to degrade, and that also means that they can also accumulate in our bodies or in just about any matrix that's present." –  Imari Walker-Franklin, Research Chemist.

PFAS in Clothing and Microplastics: A Toxic Duo 

PFAS and microplastics have become an unavoidable part of our daily lives. From the clothes we wear to the environment around us, exposure to these pollutants is constant. Most modern clothing–especially activewear–is made from synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, which not only contain PFAS but also shed microplastics.

Even more concerning, recent research reveals that PFAS and microplastics can bind together, creating an even more toxic and volatile combination. 

The Problem with PFAS and (Ultra) Fast Fashion

The fast fashion industry is one of the worst offenders of the unchecked proliferation of PFAS in clothing. 

The textile sector accounts for around 35% of PFAS demand globally. In fact, one-third of all PFAS in the EU are used in the textile sector, making it one of the largest sources of pollution on the continent. Dhaka, Bangladesh, is also a major hub for textile production. Studies uncovered dangerously high levels of PFAS in the surface and tap water near textile manufacturing facilities.

Fast and ultra-fast fashion brands are notorious for using PFAS to treat their garments. A recent investigation by Arnika, IPEN, and 14 partner organizations, including CHEM Trust, analyzed clothing from 13 countries spanning Asia, Africa, Europe, and North America. Of the 72 items tested, 46 (64%) were found to contain PFAS.

Ultra-fast fashion giant Shein stands out as a huge PFAS perpetrator, with toxic chemicals frequently found in its fabrics. A CBC investigation uncovered alarming quantities of toxic chemicals, including PFAS, in Shein clothing. A study by Greenpeace Germany also revealed many Shein garments containing PFAS and other hazardous chemicals far exceeded EU regulatory limits. 

PFAS in Clothing: Regulations and Movements

There’s hope on the horizon when it comes to tackling PFAS in clothing!

Here are some of the latest PFAS legislation and movements that are gaining momentum:

• As of January 2025, New York has banned the sale of intentionally added PFAS in most new clothing. In January 2028, the ban will also be applied to apparel for severe wet conditions.  
• California introduced a new legislation in January 2025. The state has banned the manufacture and distribution of products intentionally containing PFAS. This includes activewear, footwear, bags, and other textiles. Additionally, outdoor gear designed for severe wet conditions must be explicitly labeled as ‘Made with PFAS chemicals’. A complete PFAS in clothing ban will be enforced in 2028.
• The EU is also ramping up efforts to tackle PFAS. In 2023, five European countries submitted a landmark proposal, calling for major restrictions on all PFAS under REACH, the EU’s chemicals regulation. A decision is expected to be made in 2025. 
• Fashion brands like Patagonia are committing to removing PFAS from their supply chains. 

As you can see, new PFAS regulations are largely based in the US and EU. Many fast fashion brands outsource manufacturing to countries with precarious laws around chemical use. According to the European Environment Agency: 

“The majority of textiles consumed in Europe are imported from countries in Asia, which commonly apply less stringent chemicals legislation than EU manufacturers. This means that there is very little information about the content of PFAS in imported textiles.”

Pro tip: Want to avoid PFAS in clothing? Do a little detective work before you buy! Research where and how the garment is made, check how the brand manages chemical use, and look for credible, third-party certifications.

For example at Tripulse, we prioritize transparency and sustainability. All our suppliers and production partners are based in Europe and conform to REACH and STEP by OEKO-TEX® standards. Plus, we exclusively produce our activewear in a GOTS-certified factory, ensuring the highest health and sustainability standards. 

Learn more about our transparent and ethical supply chain.

The Prevalence of PFAS in Activewear

Did you know that sweating in your activewear could actually increase your risk of PFAS exposure?

Your workout clothes are some of the most intimate staples in your wardrobe. They are worn close to the skin for long periods without a second thought. Although marketed as an essential for a healthy lifestyle, activewear can sometimes harbor hidden toxins depending on the material and how it’s made.

What the Research Says

• A 2022 Mamavation study tested 32 activewear brands for PFAS. It measured organic fluorine levels (an indicator of PFAS) through an EPA-certified lab. The study found PFAS in 25% of the tested garments, with the highest concentrations in the crotch area.
• An NRDC study within the same year assessed 30 major US apparel brands' PFAS policies. Most companies lacked comprehensive plans to remove PFAS from their products. Sportswear brands like Nike and New Balance had especially weak PFAS strategies.

Why This Matters 

Most activewear is made from petroleum-based plastics like polyester. Since these materials lack natural performance, they rely on chemicals like PFAS for sweat resistance and durability.

But PFAS-treated synthetic fabrics have a major flaw: they can release toxins when worn close to the skin. Research shows that sweat acts like a magnet which can draw harmful residues from these fabrics. Plus, during exercise, open pores make it easier for toxins like PFAS to seep into the body.

Dr Julian Koschmieder, Product Manager at OEKO-TEX®, warns, “Especially those who exercise for health should consider not just the activity itself but also the safety of their sportswear.”

Curious to learn more? Explore our comprehensive guide on how to avoid toxins in clothing. 

How to Avoid PFAS in Clothing and Activewear: Your Practical Checklist

Wondering if it’s possible to free your wardrobe from 'forever chemicals'?

As PFAS are so pervasive, avoiding them can feel overwhelming. But here’s the good news: it doesn’t have to be!

With these simple steps, you can start embracing a better way to live–one that’s free from unhealthy materials that hold you back.

1. Examine Labels Carefully

When shopping for clothing and activewear, take a moment to check garment labels. This is often a good indicator of whether PFAS are lingering in the fabric.

Here are some common PFAS-related terms and what they actually mean:

• ‘Water-proof’, ‘stain-resistant’, ‘moisture-wicking’, or ‘sweat-wicking’: The product has likely been treated with PFAS unless it is certified safe by a credible third-party or states it is PFAS-free.   
• PFOA-free or PFOS-free: A product is free from two specific types of PFAS. However thousands of different PFAS chemicals exist so it may contain others. 
• PFC-free: This product is free from some PFAS chemicals, but not necessarily all. According to the NRDC, this term can be misleading to consumers: “PFC and PFCec could refer to only a subset of PFAS chemicals and not the many thousands that have been developed since the term PFC came into use.”
• ‘Made with PFAS chemicals’: You may begin to see this label on certain clothing items sold in California. Starting in January 2025, this indicates the intentional use of PFAS in a product.
• No intentional use of PFAS: No PFAS chemicals were deliberately added to the product. However, trace amounts could still be unintentionally present due to contamination.
• No intentional use of PFAS, and PFAS not detected: This means no PFAS were detected at a specified testing threshold. According to NRDC, “This is the highest standard and implies alternative treatments, proper chemicals management, and control of contamination and residuals.”

Pro tip: PFAS labeling can be unclear and at times deceptive. To ensure a product is truly safe to wear, look for third-party certifications. They rigorously test for PFAS and other toxic substances in line with the latest regulations. Keep reading to learn more about the best certifications for PFAS testing!

2. Replace PFAS-Treated Clothing Gradually 

Rome wasn’t built in a day, and neither is a PFAS-free wardrobe! 

Avoiding PFAS in clothing is about making better choices within your means and timeline. 

The reality is: PFAS are widespread. And when it comes to your wardrobe, most clothing is made from synthetic materials that are often treated with PFAS and other harmful chemicals. While this may feel overwhelming, throwing away all your clothing and starting from scratch is neither practical nor sustainable. 

Instead, take it step-by-step. Begin by replacing everyday essentials you wear most often. Tight-fitting staples that sit closest to your skin, like activewear and underwear, are a great place to start! 

Small, intentional swaps will help you build a safer, more sustainable wardrobe over time.

3. Explore Natural Performance Fabrics 

Choose fabrics that are naturally high-performing without the need for PFAS.

TENCEL™ Lyocell, for example, is one of the safest and most sustainable fabrics for your body. Its premium fibers offer natural durability, moisture management, and odor resistance. For everyday wear, consider other non-toxic fabrics like organic cotton and linen.

Note: Just because a fabric is natural doesn’t mean it’s free from PFAS. Always check a brand’s sustainability credentials and look for third-party certifications such as OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. This ensures the fibers are free from harmful substances, including PFAS.

4. Support Transparent Brands

Choose brands that are 100% transparent about every aspect of their supply chain.

Before you buy, look at their website and company policies. What certifications do they have? Where do they source and produce their clothing?  Do they manufacture in countries with strong labor laws and sustainability standards? How are they committing to eliminating hazardous chemicals from their supply chain?

Hint: Choosing brands that pair naturally high-performing and non-toxic materials with trusted certifications is a powerful step towards avoiding PFAS in clothing. Better still, opt for brands that manufacture in countries with strict chemical usage restrictions such as the EU.

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. Brands that truly care about your well-being and sustainability will have answers.

Curious to see a truly transparent fashion brand in action? Check out Tripulse's holistic approach to sustainability.

5. Consult Trusted Third-Party Platforms

Platforms like Good On You are great resources for discovering non-toxic fashion brands. 

They can help you find companies that are genuinely committed to safer, cleaner alternatives while upholding the highest health and sustainability standards.

Want to see how Tripulse measures up? Check out our “Great” rating on Good On You.

6. Look for Credible Certifications

If you want to avoid PFAS in clothing, choosing garments with trusted certifications can make a big difference. 

The following certifications set some of the strictest and most rigorous standards for PFAS testing in clothing:

OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100

• What it covers: A globally recognized certification which tests products and textiles for harmful substances.
• PFAS protection: OEKO-TEX® prohibits the intentional use of PFAS and tests for these chemicals in two ways. They first screen for harmful PFAS, including PFOA and PFOS. In January 2024, they introduced a Total Fluorine (TF) test to detect a wider range of PFAS, as all PFAS contain fluorine. For clothing to be certified safe by OEKO-TEX®, it must contain no more than 100 mg/kg of total fluorine.

Note: The Total Fluorine test detects all fluorine in a product. This includes both harmful PFAS and harmless fluorine from other sources, like certain dyes. OEKO-TEX® aims to ban intentional PFAS use rather than all fluorine-containing substances.

Bluesign

• What it covers: Partners with suppliers and manufacturers to produce safe and sustainable fabrics.
• PFAS protection: Since July 2023, Bluesign® has eliminated PFAS-containing chemicals from its approved list. From July 2024, PFAS-treated fabrics no longer qualify for certification. Starting January 1, 2025, all Bluesign®-approved products must be manufactured without intentional PFAS use. Additionally, Bluesign® has set a 50 mg/kg Total Fluorine limit. 

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

• What it covers: The leading standard for organic textiles, ensuring strict environmental and social criteria.
• PFAS protection: GOTS Version 7.0 takes a strong stance against PFAS. It enforces a universal ban across the entire textile supply chain. With advanced testing methods, it can now detect a wider range of PFAS–even at extremely low levels, down to 0.025 mg/kg.

REACH Compliant 

• What it covers: The primary European Union (EU) regulation to protect human health and the environment from hazardous chemicals. 
• PFAS protection: REACH currently regulates some PFAS compounds in textiles, such as C9-C14 PFCAs, their salts, and related substances. However, it doesn’t currently cover all types of PFAS. According to the European Environment Agency, “This means we have very limited information for a large number of PFAS compounds used in textiles since they are not covered by the registration obligation under REACH.” Progress is being made all the time, with a total PFAS restriction proposal currently under review. 
  

7. Think Beyond PFAS

PFAS are just one of many hazardous chemicals used in fashion. The industry relies on around 8,000 of them, including BPA, flame retardants, lead, and azo dyes–the list goes on!

Even if a garment is tested for PFAS, it could still contain other toxic substances. Look for credible certifications (as outlined above) to ensure a broader range of toxins are tested, and consider where the garment is made.

Curious to learn more? Check out our must-read guide on toxins in clothing.

A Quick Note on Certifications and PFAS in Clothing 

The fact is: PFAS are everywhere and almost impossible to completely avoid. 

Credible certifications are important. They help prevent the intentional use of PFAS in clothing and significantly reduce your exposure.

However, they can’t always guarantee a product is 100% PFAS-free. Even OEKO-TEX states it doesn't certify products as PFAS-free. Instead, it ensures rigorous and enhanced PFAS testing which meets the highest health and sustainability standards.

Here’s why testing for PFAS in clothing can be complex:

• PFAS discovery is constantly evolving. New PFAS compounds are being discovered regularly. To keep up, certifications like OEKO-TEX® use a Total Fluorine test since fluorine is a key element in all PFAS chemicals. 
• Testing has its limits. Standards like OEKO-TEX® and Bluesign set strict thresholds for Total Fluorine content. Rather than guarantee total absence, these limits are designed to ban the intentional use of PFAS in line with current regulations.
• Unintentional contamination can happen. PFAS are so persistent in the environment and highly mobile. As a result, there is a risk that trace amounts can enter supply chains through water systems or other environmental factors. However, stringent measures from certifications like OEKO-TEX® significantly reduce the likelihood of PFAS contamination.

As journalist and sustainable fashion expert Alden Wicker notes: 

“I do recommend the OEKO-TEX® certification for shoppers and brands. At the same time, I’m advocating for stronger regulations, including allergy warnings and complete ingredient lists on apparel and shoes so that sensitive shoppers can make the right choice for themselves and their families.”

In the meantime, leading certifications like OEKO-TEX® and GOTS remain among the best tools available for PFAS testing. Wearing certified clothing is one of the safest ways to limit PFAS exposure. 

Pro tip: Combine credible certifications with naturally high-performing materials like TENCEL™ Lyocell. With its natural durability, antibacterial, odor-resistant, and moisture-wicking properties, TENCEL™ doesn't need PFAS to perform. Even better, choose clothing made in regions like the EU and certain states in the US, such as California, where regulations around chemical use are stricter.

Tripulse's Toxin-Free Approach 

At Tripulse, we believe high-performance activewear should never compromise your health or the planet.

While PFAS-laden activewear has become the industry norm, we refuse to accept this toxic standard. You deserve cleaner, safer activewear that’s comfortable and high-performing–without harmful chemicals.

Our toxin-free approach starts with three key commitments:

1. Only Safe and Natural Materials 

We use only certified safe fabrics that meet the highest health and environmental standards in all our products. Our signature fabric, TENCEL™ Lyocell, is made from wood fiber and is one of the cleanest and most sustainable options available.

Even the small amount of stretch in select products, such as leggings and bras, is not conventional elastane but a more sustainable, healthier alternative. We use Roica® V550, a biodegradable, Cradle to Cradle-Certified™ stretch yarn with a Material Health Gold Level Certificate, or Roica® EF385, a recycled elastane. Plus, all of our fabrics are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified. 

Read more about our certifications below! 

2. Harnessing Natural Performance

We carefully select fabrics that naturally provide powerful benefits–like moisture management, breathability and odor resistance–without relying on toxic coatings or treatments. Our goal is to use the cleanest, least processed materials possible while ensuring every essential treatment (including dyes) is certified safe.

Learn more about our signature natural performance fabric, TENCEL™ Lyocell, in our ultimate guide.

3. Stringent Certifications and Ethical Production

All our fabrics are OEKO-TEX® Standard 100 certified and REACH compliant. This means they’ve been rigorously tested for harmful substances. Every piece is produced in a GOTS-certified factory in Europe, ensuring higher safety, social, and environmental standards throughout production.

Trusted by Our Customers

Our toxin-free activewear is a game-changer for those who wear it. See what our customers have to say:

• “Best PFAS free leggings! I’ve tried out many leggings that don’t have PFAS and these are the first ones that have it all- nice stretch, comfortable and not see through!” – Tova R.
• “The only workout clothes I wear! It's so nice to feel safe in your clothes. Tripulse has the highest standards. For a while I stopped exercising when I found out just how toxic exercise clothes are. I am so grateful for this company, their mission, and their superb product execution.” – Kristen.
• “I love my new leggings - the material feels very high quality and they are a great length. I did so much research before buying these and Tripulse really are the best of the best when it comes to avoiding toxic materials.” – Maud C.
• “As a Pilates instructor, I wear tights all day. I’m happy to have found a pair free from toxins that are extremely comfortable..” – Melissa H.
  

PFAS in Clothing and Activewear: More Helpful FAQS

Does Lululemon Have PFAS in Their Clothing?

Yes – Lululemon clothing has been found to contain PFAS, according to a 2022 study by Mamavation and Environmental Health Sciences.

Since then, the company has added PFAS to its Restricted Substances List (RSL) and claims to be phasing them out. However, there are a few key things to keep in mind:

• Lululemon follows AFIRM guidelines, which are industry-developed recommendations – not independent certifications.
  
  
• Testing is largely internal, relying on Lululemon-nominated third-party labs and in-house audits.
  
  
• The brand does not hold third-party certifications like OEKO-TEX® or GOTS, which offer stronger, independent verification of PFAS-free claims.
  
  
• Legal action is ongoing, including a lawsuit from the Center for Environmental Health (CEH) over PFAS in Lululemon products.

Looking for a Safer Alternative to Lululemon?

If you're concerned about PFAS in your Lululemon activewear, you're not alone. Here's what to look for in a cleaner, more responsible option:

• Third-party certifications like OEKO-TEX® or GOTS, which help ensure PFAS aren’t intentionally used during production
  
  

• Natural performance fabrics like TENCEL™ Lyocell that don’t rely on chemical coatings to perform
  
  

• Transparent supply chains and brands committed to strict chemical safety and sustainability standards
  
  

More and more people are choosing to move away from big brands and toward natural and non-toxic activewear that puts their health (and the planet) first.

If that sounds like you, Tripulse is made for you. Explore our clean, high-performance activewear.

Do PFAS Wash Out of Clothes?

PFAS can wash out of clothing, but washing can also make the problem worse.

A 2022 study examined how ageing, washing, and tumble drying affect PFAS-treated polyester and nylon fabrics. While some PFAS rinsed away, the process actually increased the concentration of these stubborn chemicals over time. In other words, the more you wear and wash PFAS-treated clothing, the deeper these harmful substances can embed into the fabric.

How Do I Check My Clothes For PFAS?

Since PFAS are so widespread, most conventional clothing does likely contain them. But don’t worry, there are a few telltale signs that can help you spot potential PFAS lurking in your wardrobe:

• Check your clothing labels for key terms like ‘moisture-wicking’, ‘stain-resistant,’ or ‘water-repellent’. Unless the product explicitly states that it is PFAS-free or has been independently tested, these features could indicate the presence of PFAS.
• Be mindful of plastic-based fabrics. Materials like polyester, nylon, and acrylic often require chemical treatments,including PFAS, to perform. 
• Look at the brand’s website to see what certifications they hold. If the fabric is certified by OEKO-TEX®, Bluesign, and GOTS, that’s a good sign it’s been tested for harmful substances like PFAS.

For more practical tips on how to avoid PFAS in clothing, go to our handy checklist above!

Conclusion 

PFAS have long been hidden in our wardrobes, but that doesn’t have to be the case anymore.

We know avoiding these chemicals entirely isn’t easy. In a fast fashion world dominated by plastic, making healthier choices can feel overwhelming. Since PFAS are so widespread, it’s nearly impossible to guarantee that any product is 100% PFAS-free. But PFAS are just one part of the picture. Many other harmful chemicals, like formaldehyde, phthalates, and heavy metals, can also be present in clothing. (Don’t forget to read our guide to toxins in clothing to learn more!)

But there’s a lot you can do to minimize exposure and eliminate health risks. Opt for clothing that: 

• pairs credible certifications like OEKO-TEX® and Bluesign® with natural, non-toxic materials such as TENCEL™ Lyocell and certified organic cotton.
• is manufactured in regions with strict chemical regulations, such as the EU or California, where PFAS and other toxins are more tightly controlled.

At the same time, it’s important to take a balanced approach. Most wardrobes contain synthetic clothing treated with chemicals–an unavoidable reality that shouldn’t cause stress. Plus, throwing out all your plastic clothing at once isn’t practical or sustainable! 

Consider starting with everyday essentials closest to your skin, like activewear and underwear, where PFAS exposure is more likely. When it’s time to replace items, choose better quality options that will last longer.

Ultimately, making more informed choices is a journey that’s about progress, not perfection!

This article was written in collaboration with Christie Johnson (B.A. Hons), an experienced and dedicated sustainability and wellness writer.