top of page
Untitled design.png

Your Daily Essentials Packed with PFAs (Forever Chemicals)

  • Writer: Viv
    Viv
  • Sep 15
  • 8 min read

Updated: Sep 30

Have you ever paused to consider what’s lurking in your toothbrush holder, makeup bag, or takeout box? Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a large family of synthetic chemicals prized for their water- and stain-resistant properties. They’re used everywhere—from nonstick cookware and waterproof fabrics to pizza boxes and lipstick—yet they resist natural breakdown and accumulate in people and the environment. Long-term PFAS exposure has been linked to immune dysfunction, thyroid imbalance, elevated cholesterol, and certain cancers (EPA, 2021).

Breaking PFAS dependence starts with knowledge. This guide unpacks the most common PFAS-containing items in your home, explains how these “forever chemicals” enter your body, and delivers clear, actionable steps for reducing your exposure—whether you’re ready to swap, wash, or simply rethink how you use what you already own.


What Are PFAS and Why Should You Care?

PFAS are a class of over 4,700 human-made chemicals built around strong carbon-fluorine bonds. That durability makes them ideal for resisting heat, water, and oil—but it also means they don’t degrade easily in nature or in our bodies. Two of the most studied PFAS, perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctanesulfonic acid (PFOS), are persistent, bioaccumulative, and have been detected in the blood of over 98% of Americans (EPA, 2021). Health authorities classify them as probable carcinogens, and animal studies link PFAS to liver damage, developmental issues in fetuses and infants, and immune suppression (WHO, 2018).


Key points from trusted sources:

  • The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) lists PFAS as emerging contaminants of concern due to their persistence and toxicity (EPA, 2021).

  • The World Health Organization warns that PFAS exposure can impair vaccine response in children and may increase the risk of kidney and testicular cancers (WHO, 2018).

  • The Environmental Working Group (EWG) maintains that removing PFAS from everyday products is essential for safeguarding health and environmental integrity (Smith & Jones, 2020).


Armed with that context, let’s investigate common items that may be quietly loading your body with PFAS—and how to take action.


1. Personal Care Products


Common Culprits

PFAS enhance spreadability, water-resistance, and durability in cosmetics and toiletries. Look out for:

  • Dental Floss (e.g., brands marketed for “easy glide”)

  • Waterproof Mascara and "Long-Wear Foundation"

  • Antifrizz Hair Sprays and Styling Serums

  • Sunscreens with water-resistant claims

  • Shaving Creams labeled “stay-in-place”

  • Lipsticks and Nail Polishes with glossy, smudge-proof finishes


How PFAS Enter Your Body

These products can be absorbed through your skin, lungs (via sprays), or ingested accidentally (lipstick, floss). Over years of daily use, PFAS build up in your bloodstream.


Action Steps for Current Products

  1. Check Labels for Key Terms: Scan ingredients for “PTFE,” “fluoro,” “PFOS,” “PFOA,” or any listing ending in “-fluoro” or “-perfluoro.”

  2. Reduce Frequency: If you own a favorite PFAS-treated mascara or sunscreen, limit daily use and reserve it for special occasions.

  3. Clean Tools Thoroughly: Rinse makeup brushes, flossers, and razors after each use to remove residual chemicals.

  4. Ventilate While Applying: Open a window or use a small fan to disperse airborne particles from sprays and powders.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Choose EWG-verified personal care brands free of PFAS (EWG, 2021).

  • Opt for mineral-based sunscreens in non-spray formats.

  • Use unwaxed/bio-based floss such as silk or plant-based options.

  • Pick hair styling products formulated without “fluoro” chemicals—look for plant-based ingredients.



2. Textiles and Upholstery


Common Culprits

PFAS create water, stain, and wrinkle resistance in fabrics. They’re found in:

  • Stain-Resistant Carpets and Area Rugs

  • Outdoor Gear: Waterproof jackets, tents, backpacks

  • Stain-Resistant Furniture Upholstery

  • Children’s Stain-Proof Clothing and School Uniforms

  • Curtains and Tablecloths with spill-proof coatings


Couple relaxing on a gray sofa; one reads a book, the other sits close. Room with teal curtains, large windows, laptop, and table. Cozy mood.


How PFAS Enter Your Body

Dust from treated fabrics stores PFAS, which you inhale or ingest when dust particles settle on food or skin.


Action Steps for Current Items

  1. Frequent Vacuuming: Use a HEPA-filtered vacuum to trap PFAS-laden dust.

  2. Damp-Mopping Hard Floors nearby to capture particulates.

  3. Gentle Laundering: Wash textiles as per care instructions; each wash reduces surface PFAS by up to 30% (EPA, 2021).

  4. Cover High-Traffic Furniture with removable, machine-washable slipcovers.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Select natural-fiber textiles (cotton, wool, linen) without chemical finishes.

  • Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified upholstery and bedding, which tests for PFAS and other toxins (OEKO-TEX, 2020). Read more about OEKO-TEX here.

  • Invest in lined canvas or wax-cotton outerwear instead of Teflon-coated jackets.



3. Food Packaging


Common Culprits

PFAS prevent grease and moisture from soaking through containers. They’re used in:

  • Fast-Food Wrappers and Takeout Boxes

  • Microwave Popcorn Bags and Pizza Boxes

  • Disposable Paper Plates, Cups, and Food Trays

  • Confectionery and Bakery Liners

  • Canned Foods with nonstick interior coatings


How PFAS Enter Your Body

PFAS migrate from packaging into hot, fatty foods—especially when heated in microwaves or exposed to steam.


Action Steps for Current Packaging

  1. Avoid Microwaving in Paper Wrappers: Transfer snacks (popcorn, fries) to glass or ceramic before heating.

  2. Remove Grease-Resistant Liners from food trays; wash trays in hot, soapy water before reuse.

  3. Hand-Wash Reusable Plates and Cups rather than using disposables.

  4. Check Your Pizza Box: Use serveware to pull slices out; minimize direct contact.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Place sandwiches and fast food in uncoated parchment paper or reusable silicone storage bags.

  • Use glass storage containers instead of single-use paper–plastic combos.

  • Bring your own stainless steel or bamboo reusable utensils and plates when dining out.



4. Cookware and Bakeware


Common Culprits

Almost all Teflon-coated nonstick pans and many air-fryer baskets rely on PFAS for slick surfaces.


How PFAS Enter Your Body

PFAS can release toxic fumes when overheated above 260 °C (500 °F) and leach into food at standard cooking temperatures if the coating degrades (EPA, 2021).


Action Steps for Current Cookware

  1. Inspect Nonstick Surfaces: Discard pans showing scratches, peeling, or flaking.

  2. Cook at Lower Temperatures: Use medium or low heat and avoid preheating an empty pan.

  3. Ventilate the Kitchen: Turn on the range hood or open windows to disperse any fumes.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Transition to cast iron, stainless steel, or ceramic cookware—all PFAS-free.

  • Season cast iron with flaxseed oil for a naturally nonstick surface.

  • Choose enameled cast iron bakeware for roasting and baking.



5. Household Cleaning Products


Common Culprits

PFAS stabilize foam and improve spread in certain detergents, polishes, and waxes. Watch for:

  • Furniture Polish and Wood Waxes

  • Floor Cleaners labeled “professional strength”

  • All-Purpose Sprays promoting “streak-free” shine


How PFAS Enter Your Body

PFAS in sprays aerosolize into droplets you can inhale, and residues remain on surfaces you touch daily.


Woman on stairs holding cleaning supplies and a broom in a bright room. Wall decor includes a painting and tools on hooks. Casual mood.

Action Steps for Current Cleaners

  1. Wipe, Don’t Spray: Apply cleaner to a cloth first, then wipe surfaces.

  2. Rinse Surfaces: Follow up with plain water to remove any chemical film.

  3. Store Safely: Keep containers shut tight and in a ventilated closet.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Make your own natural cleaner with vinegar (1:1 water-white vinegar) and essential oils for scent.

  • Use baking soda paste on tough spots—no surfactants needed.

  • Look for EWG Verified or EPA’s Safer Choice label, which vets products for reduced toxicity (EPA, 2021).



6. Upholstery Protectors and Sprays


Common Culprits

Sprays designed to repel water and stains on car seats, upholstery, and carpets often conceal PFAS in their formulations.


How PFAS Enter Your Body

Spraying indoors releases fine aerosols that settle on fabrics and later become airborne dust.


Action Steps for Current Sprays

  1. Avoid Indoor Application: If you must refresh a protector, do it outdoors.

  2. Ventilate Thoroughly: Leave windows open for at least one hour after spraying.

  3. Spot Test and Wipe: Before full-coverage sprays, test a hidden area and immediately wipe away excess.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Choose fabric protectors labeled PFAS-free or plant-based.

  • Skip spray boosters—reliance on routine cleaning and quick stain treatment is safer.



7. Fire-Fighting Foams and Industrial Products


Common Culprits

Aqueous film-forming foams (AFFFs) used at airports, military bases, and fire training sites are among the largest PFAS sources.


How PFAS Enter Your Body

Contaminated water supplies near training sites can lead to ingestion through drinking and cooking.


Action Steps for Homeowners

  1. Test Well Water: If you live near an airport or military base, have your water screened for PFAS (EPA, 2021).

  2. Install Certified Filters: Use reverse osmosis or activated carbon filters tested for PFAS removal.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Advocate for PFAS-free firefighting foams in community fire departments.

  • Support legislation limiting PFAS use in industrial applications.



8. Receipt Paper and Packaging Inks


Common Culprits

Thermal receipt paper uses PFAS in its heat-sensitive coating, so every grocery or fast-food slip can transfer chemicals to your skin.


How PFAS Enter Your Body

Handling receipts repeatedly allows PFAS to move from paper to fingers, then into your mouth or onto other surfaces.


Action Steps for Current Receipts

  1. Minimize Handling: Opt for digital receipts when available.

  2. Wash Hands: Clean hands after handling paper receipts or thermal ticket stubs.

  3. Store Separately: Keep physical receipts in an envelope or folder—don’t let them mix with food or personal items.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Request email or app-based receipts.

  • Encourage retailers to switch to PFAS-free thermal papers.


9. Children’s Products and Baby Gear


Common Culprits

PFAS appear in stain-resistant baby bibs, car seats, diaper bags, and waterproof mattress covers.


How PFAS Enter Your Body

Infants absorb chemicals more readily through sensitive skin and frequent mouthing of fabrics and toys.


Action Steps for Current Gear

  1. Wash New Fabrics: Launder bibs, covers, and clothing before first use to remove surface PFAS.

  2. Air-Dry Outdoors: Sunlight can help break down some chemical residues.

  3. Cover with Organic Sheets: Use 100% cotton or bamboo covers over PFAS-treated mattress pads.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Shop for GOTS-certified (Global Organic Textile Standard) children’s textiles.

  • Choose waterproofing treatments based on natural waxes or plant oils.



10. Building Materials and Home Renovation


Common Culprits

PFAS are found in low-VOC paints, stain-resistant carpets, vinyl flooring, and certain caulks and sealants.


How PFAS Enter Your Body

Off-gassing from new materials raises indoor PFAS levels for months after installation.


Action Steps for Current Materials

  1. Ventilate Constantly: Keep windows open and run fans during and after renovations.

  2. Wash Dust Thoroughly: Dry and wet mop surfaces weekly for the first six months.

  3. Test Air Quality: Use a certified indoor air monitor to track PFAS and VOCs.


Swaps and Safe Alternatives

  • Select low-VOC or zero-VOC paints without PFAS—verify by reviewing the Safety Data Sheet.

  • Opt for ceramic tile or sealed concrete instead of vinyl flooring.

  • Use silicone-based sealants free of fluorinated additives.



Bringing It All Together: Reducing Your PFAS Load


PFAS are everywhere—but so is your power to cut exposure. Here’s a consolidated action plan:

  1. Audit your home: Identify PFAS-containing items room by room.

  2. Remove or Replace: Prioritize high-contact products (cookware, cosmetics, food packaging) for earliest swaps.

  3. Ventilate and Wash: Open windows daily, run exhaust fans, and launder treated fabrics often.

  4. Filter Water: Install PFAS-capable filters on drinking and cooking taps.

  5. Advocate and Educate: Support PFAS-free policies, informed manufacturers, and share what you learn with friends and family.


Even small steps—like switching out a nonstick pan or choosing a PFAS-free stain protectant for your sofa—add up. Over time, you’ll breathe easier knowing your home is one less source of these persistent, harmful chemicals.


References

bottom of page