Since the mid-20th century, PFAS chemistry transformed fashion: Teflon was patented in the late 1940s, and in subsequent decades, thousands of variants were introduced into technical textiles. These substances made clothing water and oil repellent, but their extreme stability prevents them from breaking down, accumulating in the human body and the environment with potential harmful effects. At ClotsyBrand, we are concerned about these risks, designing PFAS-free collections and prioritizing healthier materials. Discover in this article how to choose clothes that care for you and the planet.

What are PFAS and why are they known as “forever chemicals”?

Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, known as PFAS, are a large group of synthetic compounds created in the 1940s. They are widely used in consumer and industrial products to provide water, oil, stain, and heat resistance. These products include non-stick cookware, waterproof clothing, stain-resistant fabrics and carpets, cosmetics, firefighting foams, and grease, water, and oil-resistant materials.

PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because the chemical bond between carbon and fluorine is extremely strong. This strong bond makes PFAS highly stable and persistent in the environment: most do not degrade naturally. As a result, they accumulate in soil, water, and living tissues. In fact, PFAS have been found in the blood of people and animals worldwide, as well as in remote locations like Mount Everest and the Arctic.

These characteristics—their durability, water/oil repellency, and chemical stability—make PFAS very useful additives for the textile industry. However, they also pose environmental and health problems. Because they do not break down easily, PFAS remain in our environment and can accumulate in our bodies over time. Studies have linked PFAS exposure to various health conditions (liver damage, thyroid disease, immune suppression, cancer, developmental problems, etc.). The ability of PFAS to persist indefinitely in nature is what earns them the name “forever chemicals.”

Main properties

PFAS have unique chemical properties that make them very attractive for textile applications:

• Water, oil, and stain repellency. Most PFAS are extremely hydrophobic and oleophobic due to their molecular structure (fully fluorinated carbon tails). This means they create waterproof or dirt-resistant fabrics.
• High thermal and chemical stability. Thanks to the strong carbon-fluorine bond, PFAS withstand high temperatures and resist chemical degradation. For example, some PFAS-treated fabrics can remain waterproof even at temperatures up to 300°C.
• Durability. These substances improve the lifespan of garments, as chemical finishes remain on fabrics even after repeated use and washing.

These properties make PFAS excellent water and stain retardants for outdoor, sports, or work wear. However, their usefulness comes with the serious drawback that they do not degrade easily. When they come into contact with water, soap, or wear down, PFAS tend to detach from fabrics, releasing into the environment. That is why they are considered highly persistent.

Which are the most common ones?

Within the broad family of PFAS (which includes over 14,000 known molecules), the most studied compounds are:

• PFOA (perfluorooctanoic acid). Formerly widely used in non-stick coatings.
• PFOS (perfluorooctanesulfonate). Another common PFAS, previously used in repellent treatments.
• PFHxS (perfluorohexanesulfonate). Similar to PFOS but with a six-carbon chain.
• PFNA (perfluorononanoic acid). With 9 carbons, also common in exposure studies.

The production and use of PFOA and PFOS have been reduced or gradually eliminated in several countries (e.g., the United States), although they can still be found in imported or old products. In addition, new-generation PFAS (short-chain) have appeared to replace them, but generally share the same basic structure of carbons replaced with fluorine.

Why don't they degrade easily?

The main reason is the stability of the carbon-fluorine bond, one of the strongest bonds in organic chemistry. This molecular strength prevents microbes or environmental reactions from breaking the carbon chain of PFAS. In practice, PFAS do not biodegrade naturally and can persist in the environment for decades or centuries.

For example, the U.S. Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) notes that most PFAS (including PFOA and PFOS) remain unaltered in soil, water, and living organisms. This means that once released (in industrial discharges, wastewater, textile erosion, etc.), these substances will remain there, contaminating ecosystems in the long term.

What products contain PFAS?

Many everyday products include PFAS in their materials or finishes. The most relevant are:

• Waterproof clothing and accessories. Jackets, pants, and footwear that repel water or are designed for outdoor use often feature PFAS finishes.
• Stain-resistant textiles. Carpets, upholstery, and napkins resistant to wine, grease, or water (e.g., restaurant fabrics) are often treated with PFAS.
• Non-stick cookware. Pans and pots with Teflon (PTFE) coatings contain PFAS compounds in their formulation.
• Food packaging. Baking paper, takeout boxes, and microwave popcorn wrappers often use PFAS to repel grease.
• Firefighting foams. Foam brooms (especially "Class B" for hydrocarbons) employ PFAS for their flame-suppressing capabilities.
• Cosmetics and personal care products. Some makeup, sunscreens, and personal care products include PFAS to provide texture or waterproofing.
• Technical underwear. Products such as reusable menstrual underwear (e.g., certain brands of absorbent underwear) have been found to contain PFAS.
• Professional equipment. Firefighter suits, medical uniforms, paddleboards, thermal jackets, and other specialized equipment may contain PFAS in their membranes or fabrics.

Whenever you see words like “water/oil resistant” or “DWR” (durable water repellent) on the label, it's likely that the garment has some type of PFAS in its finish. In fact, PFAS have been found in garments from popular sports and outdoor brands (waterproof jackets, hiking pants, t-shirts, yoga wear).

PFAS in textiles and clothing: how they got into our closets

PFAS enter the textile industry as chemical treatments applied to fabrics. Since the mid-20th century, manufacturers began using these compounds to improve the properties of clothing and textiles. They are typically applied as surface coatings or incorporated into synthetic membranes. For example, fluorinated finishes (side-chain PFAS) are applied to fabric using continuous finishing techniques (padding and stenter) to make it waterproof and stain-resistant. There are also PTFE membranes (like GORE-TEX) that contain PFAS in their formulation and are used in jackets, boots, and gloves to ensure waterproofing and breathability.

Although PFAS allow for the creation of high-performance garments, their use is increasingly being questioned. Several studies have shown that PFAS-treated garments release these chemicals into the environment over time. When washing waterproof or outdoor clothing, the chemicals detach into wastewater. Even when the garment is not in use, simple wear and tear can release volatile compounds into the air. Therefore, each wash or wear adds PFAS to the environment, closing a cycle of contamination.

Why are they used in the textile industry?

The textile industry primarily uses PFAS for their functional effects on fabrics. Key reasons include:

• Waterproofing and repellency: Adding PFAS makes a fabric impervious to water, oil, stains, and dirt. This is essential for outdoor garments (jackets, capes, sportswear), workwear, uniforms, and carpets.
• Durability: PFAS treatments are very durable; they withstand several washing cycles without losing their functionality, which improves the garment's lifespan.
• Performance and versatility: Garments finished with PFAS offer high performance (e.g., jackets that repel light rain and snow). They also facilitate processes such as the manufacturing of high-performance technical and sports clothing.

In summary, PFAS enable the manufacture of high-performance and clean-looking clothing, values highly appreciated by fashion brands and consumers. However, as we will see, these temporary benefits come with an environmental and health cost that is increasingly concerning consumers and legislators.

Types of garments where they are commonly found

In practice, PFAS have been detected in a wide variety of garments and textile products. Among the most common are:

• Raincoats and outdoor clothing: Jackets, coats, ponchos, pants, and gloves designed for rain or wet weather often feature PFAS-based DWR finishes.
• Sportswear and activewear: Technical t-shirts, leggings, sports bras, and cycling shorts. For example, PFAS have been found in leggings and tops from brands like Lululemon and Athleta.
• Uniforms and workwear: Stain-resistant school uniforms, work clothes (such as those for restaurants or hospitals), and protective suits contain PFAS in their repellent fabrics.
• Special underwear: Some reusable intimate garments (such as menstrual clothing) have tested positive for PFAS.
• Technical footwear: Boots and shoes with waterproof membranes (e.g., Gore-Tex) incorporate PFAS in their manufacturing.
• Outdoor accessories: Tents, backpacks, bags, and umbrellas with repellent properties often contain PFAS.

On the other hand, common fabrics without special coatings (such as unfinished cotton) rarely contain PFAS deliberately. However, cross-contamination during manufacturing or in the supply chain can lead to unwanted traces even in “white” materials.

What fabrics and finishes commonly contain PFAS?

PFAS are mainly incorporated into finishes and membranes. The most common are:

• Fluorinated repellent finishes (DWR): Applied to fabrics (polyester, nylon, or other synthetic fibers) to make them water/oil repellent. These finishes last for several washes. In textile jargon, a product labeled as “PFAS-free” may be called C0, while one with traditional finishes uses fluorinated DWR technology.
• Fluoropolymer membranes: Materials interleaved or laminated into the base fabric to ensure waterproofing. Examples include PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) used in brands like GORE-TEX. Although these membranes often do not release PFAS into the final product, their manufacturing process does involve fluorinated compounds.
• High-performance synthetic fabrics: Materials like polyester, polyurethane, and nylon with “hard-shell” finishes sometimes integrate PFAS into their coating. For example, technical ski jackets or mountaineering clothing often use polyester or nylon with PFAS-based moisture-repellent coatings.
• Treated cotton and natural fibers: Less common, but sometimes cotton is impregnated with PFAS chemicals to impart waterproofing. In these cases, the label usually warns “treated to repel water.”

In practice, any garment that promises to be waterproof, stain-proof, or quick-drying should raise suspicion. These high-performance finishes are usually based on fluorinated chemistry, i.e., PFAS. Conversely, untreated fabrics (e.g., organic cotton without coating or natural linen) are generally PFAS-free.

Regulations regarding PFAS

In recent years, regulations have begun to restrict PFAS in textiles due to their risks. At both international and national levels, there are several examples:

• European Union. REACH legislation (Regulation 1907/2006) already restricts certain specific PFAS. More recently, the Regulation on Persistent Organic Pollutants (EU 2019/1021) includes prohibitions for PFOA and related compounds. Additionally, the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) is working on a proposal that would restrict all PFAS uniformly, including limits on total fluorine in textiles.
• United States. Although there is no total federal ban yet, several states have acted: California passed SB 652 and AB 1817, laws that will prohibit the intentional use of PFAS in textiles starting in 2025. For example, AB 1817 requires waterproof clothing to be labeled if it contains PFAS and reduces the allowed fluorine threshold. New York also enacted S.1322/A.994 to ban intentionally added PFAS in garments from 2025.
• Other countries. Several governments are considering similar laws. For example, Scandinavian countries and Japan have progressively restricted PFOS and PFOA. The Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) has urged treating PFAS as a chemical class, not one by one.

In practice, regulation first focuses on long-chain PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, etc.), but the trend points to broader controls that include the thousands of existing PFAS. International brands and manufacturers (like Patagonia and Inditex) have developed strict internal guidelines to eliminate PFAS in their supply chains, anticipating these regulations. For example, Inditex has banned the intentional use of PFAS in its garments and encourages measuring total fluorine in raw materials as a control method.

How do PFAS enter the human body through clothing?

PFAS can reach our bodies through the everyday use of treated textiles.

Direct dermal contact

When wearing PFAS-treated garments, these chemicals can transfer to the skin through friction or sweating, especially in clothing with prolonged contact such as underwear, leggings, or socks. Although skin absorption is relatively low, it is not negligible.

Inhalation of particles and dust

Washed fibers release household dust into the environment that may contain PFAS. By inhaling this dust or inadvertently ingesting it (e.g., when eating with contaminated hands), the body can absorb small amounts.

Indirect ingestion.

This can occur by eating contaminated food after touching surfaces or food with PFAS from clothing. For example, by washing hands with garments impregnated in pockets.

Aquatic pathway

Although not directly from clothing, PFAS released when washing clothes contaminate water supplies. In the long term, this can lead to accumulation in the food chain (fish, vegetables) that we then consume.

As the NRDC states, “from production to use, washing, and disposal, PFAS in clothing can lead to harmful exposures.” In other words, every stage of a garment's life cycle is potentially a pathway for exposure to these chemicals.

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Why do consumers seek out PFAS-free clothing?

Growing concerns about health and the environment have motivated many consumers to demand PFAS-free clothing. The main reasons include:

• Personal health. Given evidence that PFAS exposure is associated with risks (cancer, hormonal problems, etc.), buyers prefer to avoid contact with these substances.
• Environmental safety. Consumers committed to environmentalism know that PFAS contaminate key resources (water, ecosystems) and opt for more sustainable products.
• Brand transparency. There is a growing demand for clear information. Many people read labels and prefer companies that avoid toxic chemicals. According to surveys, consumers are increasingly choosing “free of harmful chemicals” garments.
• Regulations and certifications. Reputable brands (e.g., Patagonia, ClotsyBrand) have promoted PFAS-free lines, generating preference among informed customers.

In summary, the demand for conscious fashion is driving the supply of PFAS-free textiles. Users are looking for good quality clothing that does not sacrifice their health or the health of the planet.

What diseases can PFAS cause?

Various scientific studies have linked PFAS exposure to multiple health problems. Among the reported effects (still under investigation) are:

• Cancers. Exposure to PFAS, especially PFOA, has been linked to a higher incidence of kidney and testicular cancer, among other types.
• Thyroid diseases. PFAS can alter thyroid function, causing hypothyroidism or nodules.
• Immune suppression. A reduced response to vaccines and weakening of the immune system is observed when exposed to PFOA, PFOS, and others.
• Metabolic problems. High cholesterol levels and body weight have been associated with exposure to certain PFAS.
• Reproductive problems. It has been linked to reduced fertility, menstrual irregularities, and damage to reproductive development.
• Pregnancy complications. Increased risk of gestational hypertension (preeclampsia) and low birth weight.
• Other organ damage. Alterations in liver enzymes and liver damage have appeared in animal studies and some human cohorts.

However, it is important to clarify that not all studies show direct causality. Many findings come from epidemiological observations or animal studies that suggest risks (for example, increased cholesterol, changes in birth weight, and immune damage). Health institutions recommend further research to better understand the exact effects in humans.

What do scientific studies say?

The scientific community has extensively documented the presence and effects of PFAS in textiles and health:

• Massive presence in garments. Recent investigations found PFAS in a high percentage of “water/stain resistant” products. For example, a study by the NGO Toxic-Free Future found PFAS in 72% of garments labeled as water or stain repellent.
• Children's clothing. A study by the American Chemical Society found high concentrations of PFAS in children's stain-resistant school uniforms. This finding alarmed experts due to the risk to children, who spend long hours in these clothes.
• Body contact. PFAS have been detected even in technical underwear (reusable menstrual underwear), which shows that these substances can end up in garments with high skin contact.
• Contamination throughout the chain. PFAS have been found in riverbeds, soils, and groundwater near textile factories, suggesting that their use in clothing causes chronic environmental pollution.
• Health reports. A report by the National Academies of Sciences (USA) concluded that chronic exposure to PFAS is linked to cancer, thyroid dysfunction, variations in birth weight, and high cholesterol, among other problems.
• Breast milk tests. Recent studies showed that virtually all breast milk samples analyzed contain PFAS, indicating widespread exposure in the population.

In general, the accumulated evidence leads many experts to recommend minimizing contact with these “forever chemicals.” Brands and scientists advocate accelerating the transition to PFAS-free alternatives.

The environmental impact of these substances in the textile industry

The use of PFAS in fashion has far-reaching environmental consequences. Since PFAS do not disappear, treated garments become continuous sources of contamination:

• Water and soil contamination. Effluents from textile factories and wastewater from washing release PFAS into rivers and aquifers. According to the NRDC, PFAS have already contaminated the drinking water of more than 200 million Americans. Worldwide, PFAS have been detected in water bodies, fish, and sediments.
• Accumulation in the food chain. Being persistent, PFAS pass into plants and animals. They have been found in fish, shellfish, livestock, and humans (including in blood and breast milk). This means there is bioaccumulation: compounds concentrate in living tissues along the food chain.
• Global pollution. Studies show the presence of PFAS in very remote environments (glaciers, mountains, Antarctica), demonstrating their global dispersion via air or ocean currents.
• Textile waste. When clothing with PFAS is discarded or incinerated, the chemicals are not destroyed. They pass into the environment in landfills or can be released into the atmosphere when burned.
• Cleaning and emissions. Garments with PFAS coatings continue to pollute even during use: the anti-water finish "wears off" and releases PFAS into the atmosphere and water with every rub or wash.

In the words of experts, “PFAS contamination begins from manufacturing to the end of the product's life.” The textile industry has thus become one of the main sources of PFAS contamination worldwide.

All of this poses a serious ecological challenge, as these "eternal chemicals" threaten aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems for generations.

How to tell if clothes have PFAS?

It is not always easy to determine at first glance, but there are clues that can indicate the presence of PFAS in a garment. Some practical tips:

• Check labels and descriptions. Words like “water resistant,” “oil repellent,” “waterproof,” or acronyms like “DWR” suggest treatments with PFAS. Similarly, if the label indicates PFOA/PFOS-free, it is likely referring to PFAS (though beware: sometimes they are limited to those two specific compounds).
• Look for ecological certifications. Labels such as Bluesign, OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification (Classes II or higher) or “PFAS-free” certificates from recognized organizations are indications that the brand has verified the absence of PFAS in the garment.
• Consult the manufacturer or brand. Many transparent companies publish their chemical policies. If a brand claims that its products are PFAS-free or “fluorine-free,” it is a good sign. Internal documents (such as Inditex's PFAS-Free guide) also offer definitions: for example, “PFAS-free DWR finish (C0)” means that no fluorinated repellent has been used.
• Perform chemical analysis. For absolute certainty, laboratories that measure total fluoride in the fabric can be used. This test detects the presence of any fluorinated compound (including PFAS). However, it is expensive and is usually applied on an industrial scale rather than to the individual consumer.
• Observe the feel and repellency. Although not infallible, sometimes a waxy or plasticized finish is noticeable in "high-tech" fabrics. Water droplets that slide off (do not absorb) can also indicate a fluorinated repellent coating.

In any case, if a garment is 100% cotton or linen without additional treatment, it is most likely not to contain added PFAS. But any special finish is a reason to inquire.

Tips to avoid them in clothing

To reduce PFAS exposure in clothing, several practices are recommended:

1. Choose natural and chemical-free materials. Opt for organic cotton, wool, or linen without coatings. These fabrics usually do not contain added PFAS. Avoid synthetics or blends if not necessary for the garment.
2. Avoid unnecessary "repellent" products. If you do not need a garment to be waterproof or stain-resistant (for example, a casual t-shirt), choose a version without treatment. Read the descriptions carefully before buying.
3. Research the brand. Prefer companies that guarantee PFAS-free processes and have environmental certifications. Many ethical brands publish reports detailing their progress and strict chemical standards.
4. Wash new clothes before wearing them. Washing new garments removes some residual chemicals. In the case of PFAS, it helps reduce the amount of free chemicals in the fabric and any loose compounds.
5. Air dry. Using dryers can release more particles and PFAS into the home environment. Air drying, when possible, disperses fewer compounds into the indoor environment.
6. Filter wash water. If you are concerned about environmental impact, install microfilter traps or products that retain chemical compounds in washing machine water. This prevents both microplastics and PFAS from reaching wastewater.
7. Follow new alternatives. The industry is advancing rapidly in fluorocarbon-free treatments (for example, "fluorine-free" DWR finishes based on silicone or dendrimers). Stay informed about these innovations and look for garments with these technologies.

In short, it is about awareness and informed choice. By combining good purchasing practices with appropriate usage habits, it is possible to significantly minimize the presence of PFAS in our daily clothing.

ClotsyBrand's commitment to PFAS-free fashion

At ClotsyBrand, we are firmly committed to fashion free of hazardous substances. We believe that the textile industry has a responsibility to protect the health of people and the planet. That's why all our collections are designed with a conscious and transparent vision:

• Safe and sustainable fabrics. We select natural fibers of responsible origin and certified recycled fabrics. We always choose physical finishes (e.g., beeswax or non-fluorinated silicone treatments) for water repellency instead of PFAS chemicals.
• Responsible processes. In our factories, we work closely with suppliers who have eliminated PFAS from their processes. We carry out total fluorine analysis of raw materials and thoroughly control the chemicals used at each stage of manufacturing.
• Versatile and durable garments. We opt for timeless, quality designs, made to last beyond fleeting trends. This way we reduce resource consumption and the need for additional chemical substances.
• Transparency and education. We clearly state on each label if a garment is PFAS-free and explain what safe alternatives have been used. We invite our customers to learn about the topic, share their doubts, and demand cleaner fashion.

ClotsyBrand thus promotes an authentic and conscious style. People who value the impact of their clothing can trust that our garments combine style and responsibility. We firmly believe that fashion can evolve towards a more transparent and sustainable model, and we are committed to leading that change by eliminating "forever chemicals" from our wardrobe.

Conscious fashion and safer materials at ClotsyBrand

At ClotsyBrand, sustainable clothing store, we work every day to align our practices with the well-being of the planet. Our collections of sustainable women's clothing, sustainable jeans, sustainable sportswear, sustainable underwear, barefoot footwear are developed under the premise of "less is more": fewer toxic substances, more quality and durable functionality. Prioritizing organic fabrics, ecological dyeing processes, and physical finishes allows us to offer PFAS-free garments that meet high performance standards.

Our holistic approach promotes versatile, durable, and timeless pieces. We design each garment with its complete life cycle in mind, from responsible materials to a clean production process and prolonged use by the consumer. In this way, we cater to those who value both style and the environmental impact of what they wear.

We invite you to learn more about our conscious fashion proposals: Follow us on social networks and discover how we innovate with safe materials and PFAS-free alternatives. Together we can dress authentically, without sacrificing health or the environment, and move towards a truly sustainable textile future.

Conclusion

PFAS are a complex group of substances that, due to their unique properties, have become ubiquitous in modern textiles. Their ability to repel water and oil made them desirable in clothing, but their persistence makes them a latent risk to human health and the environment. This article has reviewed what PFAS are, their uses in fashion, the associated risks, and how the industry and consumers are responding to this challenge.

It is crucial to understand that the solution lies in prevention. Consumers have power: by choosing consciously and demanding information, they pressure brands to leave behind "forever chemicals." At the same time, stronger legislation is needed to regulate all PFAS and promote safe alternatives. Conscious fashion—like the one we promote at ClotsyBrand—demonstrates that it is possible to create high-quality garments without compromising health or the planet.

In short, knowing the reality of PFAS in clothing gives us the tools to make informed decisions. Whether by looking for "PFAS-free" labels, supporting responsible companies, or adopting simple habits in caring for our garments, every step counts to reduce exposure to these substances. The goal is clear: a more sustainable, transparent, and life-respecting textile industry.