How can you tell if clothing contains PFAS?

Identifying PFAS in clothing is difficult because manufacturers are not required to disclose their use on labels. However, there are reliable indicators. Any garment marketed as water-repellent, stain-resistant, wrinkle-free, or featuring DWR (durable water repellent) coatings is very likely to contain PFAS. Research has found that 72% of clothing items marketed with water or stain resistance tested positive for PFAS.

Look out for marketing terms like Scotchgard, Teflon fabric protector, Gore-Tex (though they are transitioning away from PFAS), and any claims about permanent stain or water resistance. School uniforms, outdoor jackets, yoga pants, and period underwear have all been found to contain elevated PFAS levels in independent testing.

The most reliable way to avoid PFAS is to choose garments made from untreated natural fibers with third-party certifications. OEKO-TEX Standard 100 and GOTS-certified fabrics are tested for PFAS compounds. Brands on ONDU prioritize transparency and avoid PFAS treatments entirely, relying instead on the natural properties of fibers like merino wool and organic cotton.