PFAS: The "Forever Chemicals"
Hidden in Your Clothes
Published December 26, 2024
Reading time: 6 minutes
When we think of our favorite outdoor jacket or waterproof hiking boots, we often marvel at their durability and performance. But did you know that many of these garments might contain chemicals with lasting impacts on our health and the environment? Meet PFAS—perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances—commonly referred to as "forever chemicals."
What Are PFAS and Where Do They Hide?
PFAS are a group of synthetic compounds used since the 1950s to make materials water-repellent, stain-resistant, and non-stick [1]. These compounds have been widely adopted in industries ranging from cookware and food packaging to textiles, where they are commonly found in outdoor gear, sportswear, and waterproof clothing [2].
PFAS are notorious for their persistence in the environment—and unfortunately, in our bodies. They have an incredibly strong chemical structure that makes them resistant to breakdown [1]. Once released, they can linger in the environment for decades or even centuries, leading to bioaccumulation in living organisms and contamination in water and soil [3,4,5,6]. In humans, PFAS have a half-life of over five years, meaning it takes that long for just half of the substance to be eliminated from the body [7].
Pathways of direct human per- and polyfluoroalkyl substance (PFAS) exposure and its potential health effects [2]
The Health Risks of PFAS
The bioaccumulation of PFAS in our bodies is a growing concern. These chemicals can enter through skin contact, inhalation, or ingestion—think contaminated drinking water or food [1,8]. Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to PFAS may lead to:
- Higher cholesterol levels [9]
- Increased blood pressure [10]
- Risk of kidney disease [11]
- Birth defects and developmental delays [12,13,14]
- Preeclampsia in pregnant women [15,16]
- Potential links to cancer (though more research is needed) [17,18,19]
The scary part? Almost everyone on the planet has some level of PFAS in their blood. Shockingly, studies have shown that up to 99% of analyzed human blood samples contain detectable levels of PFAS, raising significant health concerns [20,21].
At Arms of Andes we use the finest Royal Alpaca Wool sourced in the Peruvian Andes. The Andean alpacas naturally developed over thousands of years in harsh conditions in high altitudes, creating the perfect fiber for outdoor gear that helps you stay protected in all conditions.
Discover our outdoor apparel.
PFAS in Your Clothes: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Fashion is one of the main culprits when it comes to PFAS exposure. Outdoor clothing, sportswear, and even some upholstery are treated with PFAS to enhance durability and resistance. But as these garments age or are exposed to washing, sunlight, or heat, PFAS leach out, contaminating our environment [22,23].
Even more concerning is the indirect use of PFAS in textile production. Some dyes and finishing processes unintentionally introduce these chemicals into supposedly PFAS-free products. For instance:
- Reactive dyes:
Often use polyamide, a material known to contain PFAS, to protect fabrics during the dyeing process [24]. - Finishing treatments:
Flame retardants, water repellents, and stain-resistant coatings frequently involve PFAS [1].
Fighting Back: Global Legislation and Regulations
Recognizing the dangers of PFAS, governments and organizations worldwide are stepping in. Here’s a quick look at some key initiatives:
- European Union:
In 2007, the REACH program began regulating toxic substances, including PFAS. The EU is now considering a total ban on PFAS by 2026 [25,26,27,28]. - United States:
Recent measures include the Clean Drinking Water Act (2022) and a proposed nationwide PFAS limit in water by the EPA [29,30]. - Asia:
Countries such as China and Japan have implemented partial bans, but their enforcement remains inconsistent and below what is expected of world powers [31,32].
Despite these efforts, the fight is far from over. Many textile-producing countries still lack stringent regulations, allowing PFAS contamination to persist.
At Arms of Andes we make our gear from 100% Royal Alpaca Wool of 18-18.5 microns.
At Arms of Andes we make our gear from 100% Royal Alpaca Wool of 18-18.5 microns.
A Brighter Future: Alternatives to PFAS
The good news is that innovative alternatives are emerging to replace PFAS in textiles:
- Silicone-based finishes:
Offer water resistance without harmful chemicals [33]. - Paraffin waxes and polylactic acid (PLA):
Provide environmentally conscious options for water-repellent treatments [34]. - Gore-Tex membranes:
While not perfect, these PFAS-free materials block water and are being adopted by forward-thinking brands [35,36]. - Sustainable pioneers
Companies like Archroma and Solvay are developing cutting-edge, PFAS-free technologies for textiles [37,38]
What Can You Do?
As a conscious consumer, you have the power to make a difference. Here’s how:
- Check labels:
Look for brands that explicitly state their products are PFAS-free. - Support sustainable brands:
Companies investing in safer alternatives deserve your support. - Spread awareness:
Share this knowledge with friends and family to encourage informed choices.
PFAS may be invisible, but their impact is anything but. From polluting our environment to endangering our health, these chemicals remind us that sustainability isn’t just about reducing waste—it’s about rethinking how and why we produce.
At Arms of Andes, we take sustainability seriously. Our outdoor apparel is crafted from 100% alpaca wool, a natural fiber that’s naturally water-resistant, breathable, and durable—delivering performance without harmful chemicals. We also use natural dyes, ensuring every step of our production process aligns with our commitment to the planet.
By choosing alpaca wool, you reduce exposure to harmful chemicals while supporting a cleaner, healthier environment.
Are you ready to rethink what’s in your closet? Explore the difference with Arms of Andes—because the future of sustainable fashion starts with you.
Relatedcontent
Bioaccumulation:
The gradual build-up of substances, like PFAS, in the tissues of living organisms over time due to prolonged exposure.
EPA (Environmental Protection Agency):
A U.S. government agency responsible for protecting human health and the environment. Implements regulations to limit PFAS in drinking water and consumer products.
Finishing Treatments:
Chemical treatments applied to textiles to enhance properties like water repellency, stain resistance, or flame retardancy. Often involve the use of PFAS.
Flame Retardants:
Chemical treatments used in textiles to reduce flammability. Often associated with PFAS in durable finishes.
Half-Life:
The time it takes for half of a substance, such as PFAS, to be eliminated from the body. For PFAS, the half-life in humans can exceed five years.
Paraffin Waxes:
A natural alternative to PFAS used in textile treatments to provide water repellency.
Polylactic Acid (PLA):
A biodegradable polymer derived from renewable resources like corn starch or sugarcane, used as an alternative in water-repellent textile finishes.
Polyamide:
A synthetic polymer used in textile dyeing processes to protect fabrics. Known to sometimes contain PFAS, raising concerns about indirect exposure.
REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and Restriction of Chemicals):
A regulatory framework established by the European Union in 2007 to ensure the safe use of chemicals in manufacturing and protect human health and the environment.
Reactive Dyes:
A type of dye used in textiles that chemically reacts with fibers to create a permanent bond. Sometimes associated with PFAS due to the use of polyamide during the dyeing process.
Silicone-Based Finishes:
A PFAS-free option used in textiles to provide water resistance and durability without harmful environmental or health effects.
At Arms of Andes we use the finest Royal Alpaca Wool sourced in the Peruvian Andes. The Andean alpacas naturally developed over thousands of years in harsh conditions in high altitudes, creating the perfect fiber for outdoor gear that helps you stay protected in all conditions. Discover our outdoor apparel.
In the textile industry, companies that produce garments made entirely from Merino wool typically use fibers that are 17.5 microns or finer to minimize any itchiness or roughness, [4] ensuring comfort for their customers. A study conducted by the Division of Dermatology at the University of Louisville in 2019 evaluated the effects of wearing these garments on individuals with skin sensitivities, such as atopic dermatitis or eczema. In the study, 25 participants wore only Merino wool garments of 17.5 microns for six weeks and cotton garments of 21 microns for six weeks more, while another group of 25 followed the reverse order. Participants reported significant changes when switching from cotton to Merino wool, with those who started in Merino wool experiencing a decrease in their eczema during the first weeks. [4]
| Properties | Royal Alpaca Wool | Cashmere | Merino Wool |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | Lightest | Light | Heavier |
| Fiber Structure | Semi-Hollow | Solid | Solid |
| Thermal Capacity | 5 x Warmer | 3 x Warmer | Warm |
| Water Retention | Absorbs 10% of weight | Shrinks in water | Absorbs 10%
of weight |
| UV Protection | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Fiber Scales | Smoothest | Softest | Prickly |
| Microns (average) | 17.5 | 14 | 18 |
| Tensile Strength | Highest | Weak | High |
| Odor Resistance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wrinkle Resistance | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Hypoallergenic (Lanolin free) | Yes | Yes | No |
The Final Verdict: And the Winner Is...
After a comprehensive analysis of alpaca, merino, and cashmere, it's clear that cashmere, while undeniably luxurious, lacks the durability required for outdoor garments. However, it excels as a high-end fiber for special occasions and elegant attire.
In the head-to-head battle between alpaca and merino, alpaca emerges as the undisputed champion! Alpaca wool surpasses merino in warmth, lightness, softness, and strength. It's the ultimate choice for those seeking performance, comfort, and sustainability.
Alpaca wool (particularly the royal and baby alpaca fiber grades) is warm, and performs better than merino and other types of sheep's wool. This makes alpaca wool perfect for your outdoor clothing, slipper socks, and even underwear.
Alpaca wool (particularly the royal and baby alpaca fiber grades) is non-itchy, warm, and performs better than merino and other types of sheep's wool. This makes alpaca wool perfect for your outdoor clothing, slipper socks, and even underwear.
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