PFAS levels in clothing and textiles drop across US markets following the implementation of state regulations targeting the use of so-called “forever chemicals” in consumer products. A new report has found that approximately 80% of 115 clothing and textile products tested complied with state laws restricting the intentional addition of PFAS, marking a significant step forward for public health and environmental protection. The findings suggest that regulations introduced by states such as California and New York are already driving measurable changes across the apparel industry, encouraging brands to replace potentially harmful chemicals with safer alternatives.

PFAS, or per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a group of more than 16,000 synthetic chemicals commonly used to make products resistant to water, stains, grease, and odors. However, they have been linked to serious health concerns, including cancer, immune system suppression, birth defects, kidney disease, and elevated cholesterol levels. Because they can persist in the environment for thousands of years, they are often referred to as “forever chemicals.”

New Testing Shows Significant Progress

The report analyzed products purchased from both online and physical retailers in California and New York, two states that enacted PFAS restrictions in 2022 and began enforcing them in January 2025.

Encouragingly, many well-known brands previously associated with PFAS use showed dramatically lower levels of the chemicals. Products such as Columbia raincoats, Lululemon pants, and Moab shoes were found to contain only trace amounts of PFAS markers.

According to researchers, roughly:

• 80% of the tested products complied with state PFAS regulations.
• Around 70% contained only low levels consistent with unintentional contamination.
• Approximately 10% fell into a gray area where intentional use could not be ruled out.
• A smaller group of products exceeded regulatory thresholds.

Key Findings from the Report

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Industry Adapts Faster Than Expected

Public health advocates say the results demonstrate that strong regulations can successfully drive industry-wide change.

Many major companies, including Levi’s, Patagonia, LL Bean, and Old Navy, have largely phased out intentionally added PFAS by the end of 2024, just before the regulations took effect. Even manufacturers known for waterproof technologies have introduced alternatives. For example, Gore-Tex now offers PFAS-free waterproofing solutions, although some products still contain the chemicals.

The rapid shift challenges long-standing industry claims that PFAS-free alternatives were either unavailable or too costly to implement.

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Some Products Still Raise Concerns

Despite the progress, the report found that some companies continue to sell products containing elevated PFAS levels. Violations were most commonly associated with products such as:

• Diapers and childcare products
• Outdoor furniture
• Pet products
• Certain specialty textiles

Researchers note that not all detected PFAS necessarily indicate intentional use. Because these chemicals are widespread throughout manufacturing supply chains, contamination can occur through factory equipment, lubricants, packaging materials, and industrial processes.

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Why This Matters for Consumers

The fact that PFAS levels in clothing and textiles drop across the US shows that regulations are making a real difference. By pushing companies to move away from these chemicals, states are helping create safer products for consumers.

The findings also prove that businesses can successfully adopt safer alternatives. As more states introduce similar rules, the shift away from PFAS is expected to continue, benefiting both people and the environment.

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