PFAS Sources

• Non-stick cookware
• Personal products
• Firefighting foams
• Water resistant clothing
• Paint
• Cosmetics
• Fast food packaging
• Stain resistant furniture
• Stain resistant products
• Microwave popcorn bags
• Pesticides
• Photography

Avoid Teflon™ or non-stick cookware

PFAS are commonly applied to cookware to give it an anti-stick surface. Above 260ºC, coatings begin to break down and release toxic fumes. Safer alternatives include stainless steel, cast iron and ceramic cookware. If you can’t replace your non-stick cookware, there are ways you can minimise your exposure:

• Dispose of old or damaged pans and cookware.
• Cook only on low heat and ventilating well.
• Never pre-heat non-stick cookware or us in hot ovens or grills.
• Hand wash cookware using a mild detergent and nonabrasive scrubber.
• Use wooden utensils to minimise damage to surfaces.
• Store cookware correctly to minimise scratching. For example, store with a cloth between pans.

Make your own popcorn

Microwave popcorn bags usually have PFAS coatings inside that can leach into the popcorn. Toxic fumes are released into the air when the bag is opened. Buy loose corn kernel and pop it on the stove.

Avoid stain-resistant coatings

Avoid “performance fabric,” stain proof and waterproofing fabrics in furniture, carpets, and rugs as many of these coatings are made with PFAS chemicals. Do not use finishing treatments on carpet or furniture such as Scotchguard® or Stainmaster®.

Check your drinking water

PFAS are common drinking water contaminants because of their mobility, persistence, and widespread use. Drinking water can be analysed by certified laboratories for commonly occurring PFAS compounds. Reverse osmosis and activated carbon filters can remove some PFAS contaminants. Be sure to select a filter that is certified to remove PFAS to below-drinking water guideline levels.

Choose non-PFAS clothing and sports gear

Where possible, choose clothing that does not carry Gore-Tex or Teflon tags, and be wary of all fabrics labelled stain- or water-repellent. Other products that may be treated include shoes, luggage, and camping and sporting equipment.

Cut back on fast foods

Limit fast foods that come in grease-resistant packaging such as hamburgers, pastries and french fries. Studies have detected PFAS in nearly half of tested wrappers. 

Choose personal care products without “PTFE” or “Fluoro” ingredients

Some dental flosses contain PFAS and can be a significant exposure route. PFAS can be found in a variety of cosmetics and personal care products, including nail polish, facial moisturisers, eye make-up, shampoo, foundation, sunscreen, and hairspray.