Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) are a large group of synthetic chemicals widely used to provide water, stain, and dirt resistance in textiles and other consumer products. Due to their extreme persistence in the environment and potential impacts on human health, PFAS are commonly referred to as “forever chemicals.” This report examines the presence of PFAS in outdoor and sportswear purchased from markets across Europe, North America, Asia, and Africa to assess the extent of their use in consumer clothing.
The study analysed 72 clothing items, including jackets, trousers, swimsuits, and other apparel, using advanced laboratory techniques to detect PFAS and related fluorinated compounds. Results showed that a significant proportion of the tested garments contained PFAS or evidence of PFAS-based treatments. Several products contained chemicals that are restricted or under consideration for global elimination due to concerns about their persistence, bioaccumulation, and potential health effects.
The findings highlight the role of PFAS-treated clothing as a source of environmental contamination and human exposure throughout the product lifecycle, including manufacturing, use, disposal, and recycling. At the same time, the study demonstrates that PFAS-free alternatives are already available and commercially viable. The report therefore calls for stronger regulations, increased transparency in the textile sector, and a global transition to safer, PFAS-free materials to protect human health and the environment.
