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PFAS: What They Are, Why You Should Care, and How to Avoid Them



You might not have heard of them, but PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are quietly lurking in everyday items, from your waterproof jacket to your non-stick frying pan and they’re raising serious concerns for both our health and the environment.
In this post, we’ll explain what PFAS are, why they’ve earned the nickname “forever chemicals,” and most importantly, how you can reduce your exposure.



Photo by Cooker King on Unsplash

What Are PFAS?

PFAS are a group of over 12,000 synthetic chemicals used since the 1940s to make products resistant to water, grease, oil, and heat.

You’ll find them in:

  • Non-stick cookware (e.g. Teflon frying pans)

  • Waterproof or water-repellent clothing

  • Food packaging (especially fast food wrappers and takeaway containers)

  • Stain-resistant fabrics and carpets

  • Some cosmetics and personal care products

They’re known as “forever chemicals” because they don’t naturally break down in the environment or in our bodies. Once they’re here, they tend to stay.


Why Should We Care?

Research has linked PFAS exposure to serious health issues, including:

  • Hormone disruption

  • Weakened immune response

  • Raised cholesterol levels

  • Liver damage

  • Developmental issues in children

  • Higher risk of certain cancers (such as kidney and testicular)

PFAS have been found in tap water, household dust, soil, rainwater—and even in human bloodstreams. Their widespread presence is now a growing public health and environmental concern.


Where Are PFAS Found?

PFAS can be present in:

  • Cookware: Non-stick pans and utensils

  • Food packaging: Greaseproof paper, pizza boxes, microwave popcorn bags

  • Clothing: Waterproof jackets, stain-resistant school uniforms, trainers

  • Cosmetics: Long-wear lipstick, waterproof mascara, certain foundations

  • Household items: Stain-resistant carpets, upholstery sprays, cleaning products

  • Water supplies: Especially in areas with known contamination

PFAS in Clothing: The Hidden Hazard in Your Wardrobe

PFAS are commonly found in clothing marketed as:

  • Waterproof

  • Stain-resistant

  • Wrinkle-free

  • Odour-resistant

  • Quick-dry or performance wear

These chemical treatments don’t stay on the fabric. They can wash out during laundry and eventually make their way into rivers, oceans, and our bodies.


Items to Watch Out For:

  • Outdoor gear such as raincoats and walking trousers

  • School uniforms and workwear

  • Gym wear and activewear (e.g. leggings, sports bras)

  • Treated denim and “non-iron” shirts

  • Shoes and accessories marketed as water- or stain-repellent

How to Avoid PFAS in Clothing

  • Look for clothing labelled “PFAS-free,” “PFC-free,” or “fluorine-free”

  • Be cautious of vague performance claims unless the brand provides clear information

  • Choose natural fibres such as organic cotton, wool, hemp, or linen

  • Shop from brands committed to safer alternatives: Patagonia, Pangaia, Fjällräven (which uses wax instead of PFAS), Organic Basics, and Outerknown

  • Be mindful when buying second-hand technical clothing that may still contain older PFAS treatments

How to Avoid PFAS in Everyday Life

While it’s hard to eliminate PFAS completely, you can reduce your exposure:

  • Replace non-stick cookware with cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic

  • Filter your drinking water with a certified carbon filter or reverse osmosis system (check with your local council if your area has known issues)

  • Simplify your skincare routine and avoid long-wear or waterproof cosmetics unless clearly labelled PFAS-free

  • Skip stain-resistant sprays and use natural cleaners like vinegar and bicarbonate of soda

  • Minimise takeaway food, as greaseproof packaging often contains PFAS—transfer to ceramic or glass containers before heating

The Bigger Picture

PFAS are more than a personal health risk, they’re a long-term environmental issue. Because they don’t degrade, they accumulate in ecosystems, wildlife, and people. Even small amounts build up over time and may cause lasting harm.

By staying informed and making conscious choices, you help protect your health, your family, and the environment. Your purchasing habits can also encourage brands and policymakers to adopt safer alternatives and better regulations.

PFAS may be everywhere, but we’re not powerless. Awareness is the first step toward a cleaner, safer future. Choose carefully, live consciously, and share knowledge to help others do the same.


Thank you for reading!
Sustainable Reads Team
Follow us on Instagram: @SustainableReads
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Location: London, UK

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