06/08/2026

Forever Chemicals Levels Drop After State Laws Phase Out PFAS in Textiles (6/8/26)

State laws are working to get PFAS “forever chemicals” out of everything from yoga pants to tablecloths, new testing by NRDC (Natural Resources Defense Council) shows. NRDC tested more than 100 products and found a dramatic drop in the amount of PFAS following restrictions on those chemicals were put in place by New York and California last year. For example, major outdoor brands reduced the level of PFAS in their raincoats by between 97 to 99.99 percent since the new rules went into effect. “Companies complained that they couldn't get PFAS out of our raincoats, kids’ products, and household textiles, but when states forced their hands, most companies made the change - it shows the laggards can too. Thanks to these two states, we are getting safer clothes and housewares,” said Dr. Anna Reade, Director of PFAS Advocacy at NRDC. NRDC tested 115 products purchased in California and New York in 2025, as detailed in the report released today No PFAS No Problem. Levels of PFAS in textile products decreased dramatically from thousands of parts per million (ppm) as reported in previous testing to less than 10 ppm in a matter of years. Progress was particularly notable for athletics pants, swimwear, and even the more demanding technical functions required for shoes, rainwear and outdoor gear. However, the lack of federal requirements for disclosure of PFAS use continues to create uncertainty for consumers looking to buy PFAS-free textiles, especially in states that do not have laws like California and New York. “Industry lobbyists continue to spend millions of dollars opposing legislation to protect public health from toxic chemicals, predicting disaster if product makers are required to manufacture safer products on any timeline. Our analysis debunks industry claims, as we found most categories of textiles made the transition in less than five years. Now we need to take action to stop the unnecessary use of PFAS in other product categories, like cookware,” said Reade. PFAS chemicals have been used for stain and water resistance for decades in products like footwear, outdoor gear, apparel, rainwear, pet beds, tablecloths, and more. Concerns about widespread pollution, including the drinking water of millions of people, and serious health effects from PFAS such as cancer, hormone disruption, developmental and reproductive harm, has led to growing public and scientific concern about the consequences of exposure to these chemicals. Not every product category reduced PFAS levels: pet products, tablecloths, and reusable diapers had concerning levels of PFAS, suggesting that not every industry is in compliance with the laws. Every tablecloth tested was above even the maximum level of PFAS permitted under California law for non- intentional presence of PFAS (100 parts per million or ppm)--any intentional use of PFAS is prohibited. Six of eight pet accessories and five of the nine reusable diapers tested were also above the maximum levels of PFAS allowed for non-intentional presence of PFAS. “Overall, the results from this study are promising–they show that regulations work to protect people and public health. But more action is needed to ensure people and the environment are protected from the harms of PFAS,” said Shannon Goff, research associate with NRDC and report co-author. While consumers can take steps to avoid PFAS, the lack of transparency about whether products contain PFAS is a challenge. And individuals can only do so much; addressing the PFAS crisis requires comprehensive action at all levels of government. The testing shows that government action phasing out unnecessary uses of PFAS works and should be replicated for other products as broadly as possible.