PFAS: The “Forever Chemicals” Hiding in Everyday Products and How to Live Without Them
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – better known as PFAS, or “forever chemicals” – have quietly infiltrated our daily lives. These man-made chemicals are valued for their ability to repel water, oil and heat, making them incredibly useful in consumer products . Since the 1950s, companies have added PFAS to everything from non-stick frying pans and greaseproof food packaging to cosmetics, waterproof clothing, carpets and even dental floss . The downside? PFAS don’t ever really go away. Their carbon-fluorine chemical bonds are among the strongest in nature, so they do not break downin the environment or our bodies – hence the ominous nickname “forever chemicals” . As a result, PFAS have been found everywhere on the planet, from polar bear blood and Arctic ice to our own drinking water and food. This comprehensive guide dives into what PFAS are, where these toxic chemicals show up in our homes and routines, the health risks they pose, and – most importantly – how we can avoid PFAS with safer alternatives. It’s time to learn to live without these persistent pollutants and push the companies responsible to phase them out for good.
What Are PFAS and Why Are They “Forever Chemicals”?
PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a large family of over 10,000 synthetic chemicals defined by carbon chains fully or partially bonded to fluorine . This carbon–fluorine bond is incredibly stable, which gives PFAS their sought-after properties – but also makes them extraordinarily persistent. Once created, PFAS do not degrade readily in nature or in our bodies . In fact, these chemicals can last decades or even centuries, accumulating over time in soil, water, wildlife, and people . That persistence is how PFAS earned the moniker “forever chemicals.”
Chemists originally stumbled on PFAS in the mid-20th century, and industry quickly capitalized on their unique abilities. PFAS can make materials water-resistant, grease-proof, stain-proof and heat-resistant . Teflon, the non-stick coating famously used on cookware, was one of the first big PFAS applications in the 1940s. Since then, thousands of PFAS variants have been developed and used in a dizzying array of products. Fluoropolymers like PTFE (Teflon) give us non-stick pans; fluorinated surfactants provide oil and water repellency in fabrics, paper packaging and foams; and speciality PFAS additives appear in cosmetics and electronics . In 2020 alone, Europe produced over 39,000 metric tonnes of fluoropolymers for consumer and industrial use – a volume that virtually guarantees continuous environmental buildup.
Why does all this matter? Because the same traits that make PFAS so useful (non-reactive and long-lasting) also make them problematic pollutants. They spread easily and linger indefinitely. Over time, PFAS have contaminated our air, water, and food supply . Scientists have detected PFAS in everyday items like fruits and vegetables – one UK study found PFAS in 95% of sampled strawberries, as well as in tomatoes, cucumbers and other produce . PFAS have even built up in human blood: virtually all of us now have some level of PFAS in our bodies. And because these chemicals resist breaking down, each small exposure accumulates. PFAS can bioaccumulate in human tissues, meaning that any PFAS you absorb stays there for years, gradually building up with each additional exposure . In short, PFAS are all around us and within us – which raises serious concerns about health.
Health and Environmental Risks of PFAS
After decades of unchecked use, scientists are now sounding the alarm: PFAS are not benign. Certain legacy PFAS (like the original Teflon chemical PFOA and stain-resistant PFOS) have been clearly linked to major health problems. The International Agency for Research on Cancer recently classified PFOA as “carcinogenic to humans” and PFOS as “possibly carcinogenic” . In communities with high PFAS exposure (such as around chemical plants), studies have found elevated rates of cancers (kidney and testicular cancer in particular), liver damage, thyroid disorders, fertility issues, birth defects, and developmental delays in children . Even at lower levels, PFAS can interfere with hormones – they are known endocrine disruptors – and suppress the immune system . For example, research shows PFAS exposure may reduce the effectiveness of vaccines by lowering the body’s antibody response . In young children whose immune systems and hormones are still developing, these effects are especially concerning .
Environmentally, PFAS pollution is equally alarming. “Forever chemicals” have permeated ecosystems worldwide. They’ve been detected in rainwater, soil and wildlife far from any factory . PFAS in oceans can even disrupt marine life and the carbon cycle – studies suggest PFAS may harm tiny algae that sequester CO₂, potentially exacerbating climate change . Because PFAS persist and travel, no corner of the globe is truly untouched. Arctic ice core samples contain PFAS deposited via atmospheric circulation . Closer to home, drinking water is a major concern. Testing in England found PFAS present in the source water of 17 out of 18 water companies, and some water samples even exceeded recommended safety limits . (Notably, the UK currently has no legally enforceable limit for PFAS in tap water, unlike the newly strict PFAS limits adopted in the US .) In short, PFAS pollution is both widespread and difficult to reverse. That’s why experts say preventing further use is critical – and why individuals should take steps to reduce their own exposurewhere possible.
The good news is that awareness is growing. Regulators are finally taking action (for example, the EU recently banned a PFAS known as PFHxA in consumer textiles, food packaging, cosmetics and more ). And many companies have begun developing safer alternatives. In the meantime, we as consumers can make informed choices to avoid non-essential PFAS in our daily lives. Let’s look at where PFAS are hiding in a typical home – and how to swap them out of your routine.
PFAS in the Home: Common Sources and Sneaky Surprises
PFAS have a talent for cropping up in unexpected places. You might be using or wearing PFAS-containing products every day without realizing it. Below, we tour the typical home (and a few beyond-the-home scenarios) to expose which everyday items contain PFAS – and highlight PFAS-free alternatives and solutions at every step. From the kitchen to the bathroom, the living room to your wardrobe, here’s where to look out for toxic forever chemicals:
Kitchen: Non-Stick Cookware and Food Packaging
The kitchen is often PFAS ground zero. The culprit? That convenient non-stick cookware many of us rely on. Traditional non-stick pots and pans are usually coated with PTFE (Teflon), which is a PFAS. When heated, scratched, or worn, these coatings can shed microscopic PFAS particles into your food . Over time, cooking with a heavily scratched Teflon pan may dose you with trace amounts of PFAS that build up in your body. In fact, experts say old or damaged non-stick pans are especially risky: “Once something is worn down, more chemicals come off it,” notes one scientist . It’s no need to panic or toss all your cookware this instant – but when a pan’s coating is flaking, it’s time to replace it with a safer option .
PFAS-free cookware options: Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice convenience to avoid PFAS in the kitchen. Look for products explicitly labeled “PFAS-free” (not just “PFOA-free,” which covers only a few banned chemicals) . Cookware made from ceramic, cast iron, stainless steel, or enamel can all provide non-stick performance without forever chemicals . For example, ceramic-coated pans from brands like GreenPan and Caraway use silica-based coatings instead of Teflon, delivering a slick, easy-clean surface with no PFAS at all . Users report that high-quality ceramic pans can fry an egg with minimal oil and wipe clean effortlessly . Other PFAS-free cookware lines (such as Cuisinart’s GreenGourmet range) likewise use innovative coatings free of PTFE/PFOA . The bottom line: you can still flip pancakes without sticking – just choose PFAS-free pans and bakeware. If you need the convenience of non-stick, make the switch next time you replace a worn-out pot.
Food packaging is another hidden kitchen source of PFAS. Those grease-resistant wrappers, baking papers, and takeaway containers that keep food from sticking or leaking are often treated with PFAS-based coatings . Fast-food burger wrappers, pizza boxes, microwave popcorn bags, bakery pastry papers – all have been found to contain PFAS to stop oil soaking through. One investigation in the UK showed PFAS in a wide range of disposable food packaging that people use every day . The PFAS can migrate into the food you eat, especially if the food is hot or greasy. Over years, regularly eating packaged or takeaway food can contribute to your cumulative PFAS exposure.
How to reduce PFAS from food packaging: Limit your use of disposable packaging when possible. For example, choose home cooking or fresh foods over takeout to avoid those PFAS-laden wrappers, and use your own reusable containers for leftovers or lunches (many brands now offer PFAS-free reusable food storage). If you do order takeout, be aware that pizza boxes, bakery bags, and fast-food wrappers are among the worst PFAS offenders . You can transfer food out of them sooner rather than letting it sit. For baking, opt for uncoated parchment or use a silicone baking mat in place of PFAS-treated greaseproof paper. Supermarkets are also stepping up: in the UK, chains like Asda and Sainsbury’s now sell disposable plates made from sugarcane fiber (bagasse) that are naturally grease-resistant and free of PFAS . These plant-based alternatives work just as well for that slice of cake or barbecue burger, without the chemical aftertaste. In short, by being mindful of food packaging – and choosing PFAS-free products when available – you can make your kitchen a lot less welcoming to forever chemicals.
Living Room: Stain-Proof Carpets and Upholstery
Moving into the living room, consider your sofa, armchairs, and carpets. If you’ve ever purchased furnishings advertised as “stain-resistant” or “easy-clean,” there’s a good chance PFAS were involved. PFAS chemicals have long been used to treat upholstery and textile fibers, creating an invisible coating that causes spilled liquids to bead up instead of soaking in . That stain-guard spray applied to a new couch or the factory finish on a “performance” fabric likely deposited PFAS into your furniture. Over time, those chemicals don’t stay put – they shed into household dust, where you can unknowingly ingest or inhale them . Carpets are another major site of PFAS treatment, especially carpet marketed as stain-proof for busy homes or offices. Simply walking, vacuuming, or kids playing on treated carpet can stir up PFAS-laced dust. Even car interiors (seats and carpeting) often have stain-resistant PFAS coatings , contributing to dust inside vehicles.
The problem is so pervasive that when we clean our homes, we may actually be exposing ourselves to PFAS in dust that settled from treated furnishings . One study found that frequent hand-to-mouth contact (common in toddlers crawling on the carpet) is a route of PFAS exposure via dust particles . Clearly, the convenience of a stain-proof sofa comes at a hidden cost.
How to avoid PFAS in furnishings: Whenever possible, opt for untreated fabrics or those explicitly labeled PFAS-freewhen buying furniture or carpets. Many companies now understand consumers’ concern and will specify if a product is free of fluorinated stain repellents. As a rule of thumb, skip the optional stain-resistant add-on treatments when purchasing new sofas or rugs unless you can confirm a PFAS-free technology is used . The good news is that safer alternatives are emerging. For instance, some furniture makers use FibreGuard or Aquaclean fabrics – these offer stain resistance through innovative weaving and non-PFAS coatings, rather than fluorochemicals . Several UK furniture retailers (like Long Eaton Sofas and New England Home Interiors) now upholster with FibreGuard-certified fabrics that are PFA-free . You can also find carpets made from natural fibers (wool, cotton, jute) that forego PFAS treatments and instead rely on the fiber’s tight weave or a bio-based protector.
If replacing big items isn’t feasible, don’t worry. You can still reduce exposure by cleaning regularly with a HEPA-filter vacuum to capture PFAS-laden dust, and by washing your hands (especially before eating) to remove any residue. Over time, aim to replace older stain-proofed furnishings with PFAS-free pieces. Remember: a little spilled wine on an untreated couch cushion is easier to live with than a persistent chemical in your home and body. And spill-friendly options like washable slipcovers or stain-resistant fabrics that use green chemistry mean you don’t have to sacrifice practicality to avoid PFAS.
Wardrobe: Waterproof Clothing and Outdoor Gear
PFAS have also woven their way into our closets. Many of the high-performance outdoor clothing and even everyday apparel advertised as “waterproof”, “water-resistant” or “quick-dry” have historically used PFAS-based coatings. Think rain jackets, winter coats, hiking pants, umbrellas, and even stain-resistant school uniforms – all likely candidates for PFAS treatment so they can repel rain and mud. The durable water repellent (DWR) finish on a raincoat is often a fluorinated compound that keeps water beading off. Similarly, “no-stain” shirts or ties may have a PFAS finish. And it’s not just outerwear: some sportswear and athleisure items are treated to be moisture-wicking or antimicrobial, which can involve PFAS. Unfortunately, these chemicals don’t stay in the clothes forever. Research shows PFAS coatings leach out gradually with wear and washing . They can end up on your skin, in laundered wastewater, and as dust in your home.
The tide, however, is starting to turn. As consumers and regulators grow wary of PFAS, many major clothing brands are phasing out PFAS treatments. In fact, several global apparel companies have publicly committed to eliminating PFAS from their supply chains. Notably, outdoor gear brands like Patagonia, The North Face, Columbia, and Canada Goose have introduced PFAS-free product lines or DWR alternatives . On the high street, fashion retailers including H&M, Zara, Uniqlo, Levi’s, Adidas, Reebok, and Marks & Spencer (M&S) have all taken steps to remove PFAS from their clothing and footwear . Even budget-friendly labels like Primark and supermarket clothing lines (e.g. Tesco’s F&F) in the UK have declared their items PFAS-free for shoppers’ peace of mind .
How to avoid PFAS in clothing and gear: When shopping, check labels and brand websites for information on PFAS or PFCs (another term for fluorochemicals) in their products. Look for terms like “PFAS-free” or “PFC-free” on rainwear, gloves, boots, and backpacks. Many outdoor brands now proudly advertise if they’ve achieved a fluorocarbon-free waterproofing. For example, newer Gore-Tex products are available with an alternative membrane: in 2022, Gore-Tex introduced an expanded polyethylene (ePE) membrane that provides the same waterproof-breathable performance without any PFAS . By the end of 2025, gear maker Arc’teryx plans to use exclusively non-PFAS materials in all its jackets – a sign of the rapid industry shift. If you need to re-waterproof an older jacket, you can even buy aftermarket spray treatments that are PFAS-free (for instance, Nikwax TX Direct or Grangers Performance Repel are two PFAS-free options for restoring water repellency) .
For everyday clothing, favor items made of natural fibers or those that achieve water/stain resistance through mechanical means (tight weaves) or non-fluorinated coatings like waxes or silicones. A classic example is waxed cotton jackets – stylish, waterproof, and no forever chemicals needed. And if you really need synthetic weather gear, rest assured that many brands now offer PFC-free outdoor apparel; just double-check the product details. Over time, as you replace worn-out coats, shoes, or backpacks, make a point to upgrade to PFAS-free versions. Each swap means fewer toxic chemicals on your body and eventually in the environment. Best of all, most people report that the new generation of PFAS-free gear performs just as well as the old stuff – proof that we can live without these chemicals without compromising our comfort or style .
Bathroom: Cosmetics, Skincare and Personal Care Products
Your bathroom cabinet may hide some stealth PFAS sources. Surprisingly, a wide variety of cosmetics and personal care products contain PFAS ingredients. These chemicals are added to makeup and skincare for their smoothing, water-resistant, and long-wearing properties. For example, PFAS are used in foundation, concealer and BB creams to help them spread evenly and bond to the skin . They’re found in waterproof mascaras and eyeliners, enabling those products to resist smudging from tears or sweat . PFAS can also appear in long-lasting lipsticks and lip liners – one 2021 study in the US found that 62% of tested liquid lipsticks contained high fluorine levels, indicating PFAS were likely present . Even certain lotions, hair products, shaving creams, and dental floss have used PFAS. In floss, for instance, PFAS (like Teflon) create a “glide” coating that helps the floss slide between teeth . The catch is that some of these substances can be absorbed through the skin or ingested, and we don’t want forever chemicals in our bloodstream via our beauty routine.
The makeup issue is particularly noteworthy: not only are PFAS found in many brands, but recent research suggests that wearing PFAS-laced cosmetics might actually enhance the skin’s absorption of these chemicals . Given that many of us use cosmetics daily, this could be a significant exposure route. It’s troubling enough that in 2023, the European Union proposed sweeping new regulations to ban PFAS in cosmetics altogether .
Choosing PFAS-free personal care: Thankfully, the push for “clean beauty” means there are now plenty of cosmetics made without PFAS. When shopping for makeup, look for labels that say “PFAS-free” or check ingredient lists for telltale chemical names (common PFAS in cosmetics include words containing “perfluoro” or “PTFE”). Many brands won’t explicitly list “PFAS” on the label, but ingredients like perfluorononyl dimethicone or polyperfluoroethoxymethoxy difluoroethyl PEG are red flags – essentially fluorinated compounds . To make it easier, some retailers tag products as clean or PFAS-free. For example, Sephora and H&M Beauty have begun identifying or formulating products without PFAS . Niche “clean beauty” lines are often PFAS-free by philosophy: brands like ILIA, RMS Beauty, Tower 28, and Benecos offer popular mascaras, lipsticks and foundations that forgo harsh chemicals in favor of natural ingredients . These products prove you can get lush lashes and long-wearing color without a side of fluorochemicals. As for dental floss, you can switch to one that uses natural wax or silk for glide (several eco-friendly flosses proudly advertise “no PFAS” on the box) . In general, prioritizing products with simpler, organic formulas can help – fewer synthetic chemicals often means no PFAS. And keep an eye out for certifications like OEKO-TEX or bluesign on items like toiletries and even shower curtains; these standards prohibit PFAS, so they’re a handy shorthand for safety .
Cleaning and Other Hidden Sources
PFAS even sneak into our cleaning closet. It may seem counterintuitive, but some household cleaning products – especially specialty sprays and polishes that promise a protective coating – contain PFAS. For instance, certain fabric protectors, carpet sprays, and furniture polishes use fluoropolymers to impart that shiny, water-repellent finish on surfaces . If a product’s label boasts about leaving behind a “protective barrier” or “stain shield,” odds are it relies on a PFAS ingredient. Unfortunately, cleaning product labels often aren’t required to list every component, making it hard to know which contain PFAS . One clue: if you spot any ingredient with “fluoro” in its name, that’s a smoking gun for PFAS in the formula .
To err on the side of safety, you can seek out PFAS-free cleaners. A growing number of eco-friendly cleaning brands are ensuring they omit not just the usual suspects like bleach or phthalates, but PFAS as well. For example, UK-based brand Smol produces surface cleaners that are free of “toxic chemicals, including PFAS” . They ship concentrated tablets you dissolve in water – avoiding both hazardous chemicals and excess plastic packaging. Another company, Purdy & Figg, similarly offers natural cleaning concentrates without PFAS . Even without specific brands, you can safely assume that simple cleaners (like basic soap, vinegar solutions, or plant-based detergents) will not use exotic fluorochemicals. In fact, experts advise that for everyday cleaning (wiping kitchen counters or cleaning a spill), a mild soap and water can do the job just fine without any risk of chemical residue .
A few more unexpected PFAS sources to note: shoe and fabric waterproofing sprays (the kind used to re-treat rain boots or outdoor gear) historically contained PFAS – though as mentioned, PFAS-free alternatives now exist . Household paints and sealants sometimes have PFAS-based additives for spreadability or foam reduction. And as mentioned earlier, even our electronics and appliances can contain PFAS in components or wiring insulation, which then contribute to PFAS in indoor dust . There’s not much a consumer can do about PFAS inside a television or smartphone, but it’s another reminder that these chemicals are entwined with modern living.
Lastly, we should talk about drinking water. While not exactly a “household product,” water is a daily consumer good that can carry PFAS from industrial pollution or firefighting foam runoff. If you live in an area with known PFAS contamination, or you’re simply being cautious, one solution is to use a water filter that can remove PFAS. Not all standard filters do this. For instance, a typical Brita pitcher filter may only reduce about 66% of PFAS in water . In contrast, advanced filters using activated carbon blocks or reverse osmosis can capture a much higher percentage – some brands claim over 90% PFAS removal . One example is the ZeroWater filter jug, which in tests removed ~94% of PFAS from tap water . If you’re particularly concerned (for example, if you are pregnant or have young children and live near a PFAS-contaminated area), investing in a whole-home filtration system or a high-quality countertop filter for drinking and cooking water might be worthwhile. And remember, boiling water doesn’t destroy PFAS – these chemicals aren’t biological contaminants, so heat won’t break them down . Filtration or sourcing cleaner water is the key. That said, public health authorities maintain that most tap water has PFAS levels below current safety thresholds – so this is a personal choice and extra peace of mind if you want to minimize exposure further.
Solutions and Alternatives: Living Without PFAS
Confronted with how ubiquitous PFAS are, one could feel overwhelmed – but there’s empowerment in knowledge. By being aware of these hidden chemicals, you can make smarter choices and significantly reduce your PFAS exposure. Here’s the heartening truth: we can live without most PFAS. The proof is in the growing market of PFAS-free products and the companies already committing to change. Let’s summarize some key strategies and solutions for a PFAS-free (or at least PFAS-minimized) life:
Choose PFAS-Free Products: When it’s time to buy new cookware, clothing, furniture, or cosmetics, do a little research and opt for items that proudly state they are PFAS-free. Consumer demand is driving more brands to obtain PFAS-free certifications or labels. From ceramic non-stick pans to PFAS-free raincoats and “clean” makeup brands, alternatives are out there in every category we’ve discussed. Many are highlighted above – and more arrive each year.
Check Labels and Ask Questions: If a product is marketed with words like non-stick, waterproof, stain-resistant, or long-lasting, and it doesn’t explicitly say PFAS-free, reach out or look up whether the brand uses PFAS in that item. Sometimes, a quick check on the company’s FAQ or a customer service email can clarify. Support companies that are transparent and have phased out PFAS, and let others know you’d prefer safer ingredients.
Embrace Traditional Materials: Often, avoiding PFAS simply means going back to tried-and-true materials. Cook with cast iron or stainless steel (properly seasoned cast iron is naturally non-stick). Wear layers or use umbrellas instead of relying on ultra-treated “waterproof/breathable” fabrics for every situation. Choose natural fiber rugs and untreated wood furniture that can be cleaned in old-fashioned ways. Our grandparents got by without PFAS – and so can we, often with surprisingly little inconvenience.
Adopt Simple Habits to Minimize Exposure: Little changes can cut down your contact with PFAS. Ventilate your home and dust frequently to reduce PFAS accumulation from products. Wash new clothes, linens, or dishes before first use (some textile finishes will wash out, and any surface residues can be removed). Avoid storing or microwaving food in the same PFAS-treated wrappers it came in – transfer it to a PFAS-free container or plate. These small steps, combined with product choices, all add up to a meaningful reduction in your daily PFAS intake .
Support Regulation and Corporate Responsibility: On a broader level, policymakers and manufacturers need to hear from consumers that we want PFAS gone. It shouldn’t be solely on shoppers to police chemical ingredients. The fact is, many companies can reformulate products without PFAS – and many already have, once the spotlight turned on these chemicals. For example, in the textile sector, Gore-Tex’s development of a PFAS-free waterproof membrane shows that innovation is possible without sacrificing performance . Major fashion and outdoor brands are proving they can deliver quality goods without PFAS . We should applaud these changes and demand more. Pushing for stricter regulations (like the proposed EU ban on non-essential PFAS ) and holding manufacturers accountable will accelerate the transition to safer alternatives. Ultimately, the goal is to stop PFAS pollution at the source – which means phasing out PFAS in industrial use, except perhaps in truly essential applications (like critical medical devices) where no substitute exists.
A Future Free of Forever Chemicals
PFAS became popular because they solved problems – sticky pans, soggy pizza boxes, stained carpets – that we thought we couldn’t live without. But we now know the trade-off: convenience at the cost of health and environmental harm. The evidence is clear that these “forever chemicals” carry real risks, and that they persist in our bodies and planet far too long . The good news is, we don’t actually need PFAS to live well. Safer materials and smarter product designs can meet our needs without poisoning our water or accumulating in our blood. As consumers, we have more power than ever to choose PFAS-free options and to send a message to industry that toxic chemistry is unacceptable.
Imagine your home in the near future: your kitchen equipped with safe, non-toxic pans; your sofa and carpets cozy and clean without chemical coatings; your raincoat waterproof thanks to ingenious PFAS-free tech; your makeup bag filled with products that give you a glow without any hidden hazards. This vision is entirely attainable – it’s already being built by companies at the vanguard of sustainability and by regulators pushing for change.
In the meantime, we can all take steps to detox our homes from PFAS. Every change, from swapping out an old Teflon skillet to saying no to Scotchgard on a new sofa, is a step toward a healthier environment for ourselves and our families. We owe it to future generations (and even to our present selves) to break the PFAS cycle. These chemicals might be forever, but with awareness and action, their reign in consumer products doesn’t have to be. By learning to live without PFAS now, we pave the way for a cleaner, safer, PFAS-free future. It’s a classic win-win: we protect our health while also telling polluting companies that their time is up. Forever chemicals have no place in our future – or in our homes, starting today.