The best way to prevent PFAS chemicals from being released into the environment is minimizing use of PFAS containing products, especially when PFAS-free alternatives are available. Below are examples of ways you can minimize your PFAS footprint.

 

Cookware

  • Use stainless steel, cast iron, or glass
  • Avoid non-stick coatings
  • If you do use non-stick coatings, don’t scrub, scrape, overheat or put non-stick coatings in the dishwasher and stack non-stick pans with a napkin or cloth between them to prevent scratches
  • Dispose of old or damaged non-stick pans
  • Purchase quality cookware from reputable companies

Food Packaging

  • Prepare food at home and in advance
  • Don’t reheat food in grease resistant packaging
  • Use uncoated glass, silicone, metal, and bamboo containers to store food, whether at home or dining out
  • Switch from microwave popcorn to stovetop or air popped popcorn
  • Investigate the content of any paper, plastic or aluminum food liner or wrapper you purchase
  • Use silicone baking mats and liners
  • Use beeswax lined cotton fabric pieces as a great alternative for cold food storage

Stain Resistant and Waterproof Fabrics

  • Look for non-fluorinated water-resistant finishes
  • Avoid “waterproof”, “water-resistant”, “stain resistant”, or “wrinkle resistant” clothes, shoes, furniture, and carpeting
  • Don’t assume an industry name is PFAS free because it doesn’t include a fluoro- in its name!  Gore-Tex and Polartec contain PFAS, and are commonly found in outdoor gear, including tents
  • Skip the additional stain-resistant treatments that are offered, including Scotchguard and Stainmaster
  • Opt for washable fabric alternatives instead, including machine washable rugs and slip-covered furniture

Personal Care Products

  • Review the ingredients in your makeup, deodorants, dental floss, toothbrushes, sunscreens, insect repellants, perfumes, hair styling products
  • Avoid ingredients with fluorinated compounds
  • Use products derived from natural ingredients
  • Search the Skin Deep database on the Environmental Working Group’s website to check your personal care products

What else can I do?

  • Contact your favorite household and food companies to inquire about their use of PFAS.
  • Encourage companies to use non-toxic PFAS alternatives and provide additional labeling to indicate their product is PFAS free
  • Contact your state and local representatives to encourage development of laws that phase out PFAS production and use
  • Stay up to date on safety determinations for PFAS chemicals