Understanding PFAS in Textiles

Many textile products use PFAS for water, oil, and stain resistance. These properties make them useful for outdoor apparel, protective equipment, and other technical applications. However, concerns about their persistence in the environment have led to increased attention from manufacturers, buyers, and regulators.

To make informed decisions when choosing materials, businesses should understand why they use PFAS, what alternatives exist, and how regulations affect the textile industry.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS stands for per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, a group of human-made chemicals used in industrial and consumer products. Their strong chemical bonds make many of them resistant to water, oil, and stains.

Often called "forever chemicals," many PFAS break down very slowly in the environment. Some can accumulate in people and wildlife, and exposure to certain PFAS has been linked to health concerns. However, their properties and effects vary by chemical.

In textiles, PFAS may be used in coatings and finishes to provide specific performance characteristics. Their persistence also creates challenges when products reach the end of their useful life.

Why Are PFAS Used in Textiles?

Textiles use PFAS because they provide properties that are difficult to achieve with other treatments. They can help fabrics resist:

•    Water: To stop moisture from soaking into the material.

•    Oil and stains: Reducing the penetration of grease and other substances.

•    Wear and exposure: Keeping certain protective properties during use.

These characteristics make PFAS useful in outdoor clothing, workwear, and specialized technical textiles. However, their performance benefits must be weighed against environmental concerns associated with their production, use, and disposal.

PFAS Regulations and the Textile Industry

Governments are introducing and updating PFAS restrictions in response to concerns about environmental persistence and potential health effects. Requirements vary by location, chemicals, and product type.

In the United States, several states have adopted restrictions on intentionally added PFAS in certain products, including some textiles and clothing. In Europe, existing chemical restrictions apply to certain PFAS, and broader restrictions have been under consideration.

These changes can affect material sourcing, product development, and sales in different markets. Manufacturers and buyers should review the requirements that apply to their products and request up-to-date information from suppliers.

What Alternatives Are Available?

PFAS-free alternatives are available for many textile applications, particularly water-repellent finishes. Options include silicone-based treatments, polyurethane-based finishes, wax-based treatments, and other fluorine-free coatings.

However, alternatives do not all offer the same performance. A finish suitable for everyday clothing may not meet the requirements of industrial fabrics or specialized protective equipment.

C0 DWR and EMPEL® finshes, provide alternatives for customers looking to reduce their reliance on traditional PFAS-based treatments. The right choice depends on the fabric, its intended application, and the required performance level.

Before switching materials, manufacturers should evaluate durability, water resistance, compatibility with the base fabric, and performance under actual use conditions. Testing helps confirm whether an alternative meets the finished product's needs.

What Should Textile Buyers Consider?

When choosing fabrics, buyers should consider both performance requirements and chemical content. Asking the right questions can help clarify whether a material suits a particular application.

Key considerations include:

•    Performance: Does the fabric meet the required standards for durability, moisture resistance, and other properties?

•    Chemical content: Does the material contain intentionally added PFAS, and is documentation available?

•    Compliance: Does the fabric meet the regulations for the intended product and market?

•    Alternatives: Can a PFAS-free material provide the required performance?

•    Testing: Are test results or other documentation available to support supplier claims?

Buyers should also clarify what a "PFAS-free" claim means, since definitions and testing methods can vary.

Making Informed Textile Choices

PFAS have provided useful performance characteristics in textiles, but their persistence in the environment has raised important questions about their use. As regulations and material options change, manufacturers and buyers must weigh performance needs against chemical requirements and environmental considerations.

Understanding the available alternatives, reviewing supplier documentation, and testing materials for their intended applications can help businesses select fabrics that meet evolving requirements.