The ‘Forever Chemicals’ Hiding Around Your Home (+ Low-Tox Swaps)
If you’ve heard the term “forever chemicals” floating around lately, there’s a good chance people are talking about PFAS.
But what exactly are they? And more importantly, where are they?
Now, before we get into it, it’s important to note: This isn’t about panicking or throwing out half your house.
This is about how knowledge is power – the more you know, the better equipped you are to make informed decisions for you and your family.
First thing's first: What are Forever Chemicals?
“Forever chemicals”, or PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are synthetic chemicals used to make products resistant to water, oil, grease and stains.
The problem? They don’t easily break down in the environment, some can build up in our bodies, and certain PFAS have been linked to harmful health effects such as kidney and testicular cancer, thyroid hormone disruption, immune system effects, and developmental issues in infants. [Source]
Avoiding them completely isn’t realistic, but making small choices to reduce your exposure absolutely is. So, let’s take a wander around the house…
01. PFAS in the bathroom
What to look out for: Waterproof or long-wear makeup, some skincare products and certain types of dental floss.
What to try instead: Look for beauty and personal care products that explicitly state they are PFA-free, particularly when replacing waterproof or long-wear products. For floss, look for options made “without PTFE”
Recommended alternatives: Two options that avoid PFEs/PFTEs are the Ere Perez Avocado Waterproof Mascara and Dr Tung’s Smart Floss
(WildBody has no affiliation with these products/brands. Check if they’re right for you.)
02. PFAS in the wardrobe
What to look out for: Waterproof, water-resistant clothing, shoes & gear; Moisture-wicking, odor-resistant synthetic activewear; Stain-resistant textiles and fabrics.
What to try instead: Look for brands that state their waterproof, moisture-wicking, or stain-resistant fabrics are PFAS-free.
(And no, this does not mean you need to throw out your current wardrobe. Use what you already own and keep the information in mind when it eventually needs replacing.)
Recommended alternatives: Of course I have to recommend WildBody! We proudly produce organic cotton based activewear that are completely PFAS-free.
03. PFAS in the living room
What to look out for: Stain-resistant couches, rugs, carpets and upholstery. That coating designed to make spills bead right off your couch? Water-, oil- and stain-resistant treatments have historically been another common use for PFAS.
What to try instead: When you’re buying new furniture or textiles, look for products specifically labelled PFAS-free or ask whether a stain-resistant treatment has been applied.
Recommended alternatives: There’s an increasing number of furniture brands creating PFA-free (or no PFAS added) furniture staples such as Banana Home, Koala, and NooK.
(WildBody has no affiliation with these products/brands. Check if they’re right for you.)
04. PFAS in the kitchen
What to look out for: Non-stick cookware and grease-resistant food packaging.
What to try instead: When your cookware eventually needs replacing, consider stainless steel, cast iron, carbon steel or cookware explicitly labelled PFAS-free.
Keep an eye out for natural grease-proof paper, and bio-based wax for leftover storage!
Recommended alternatives: Glad have a range of kitchen essentials called Glad to be Green – available at Woolies/Coles. I like that they’re unbleached, natural, PFA free, and compostable!
(WildBody has no affiliation with these products/brands. Check if they’re right for you.)
And remember: You don’t need to change everything at once
Learning about things like PFAS can sometimes leave you feeling like you need to replace your cookware, couch, carpet and half your wardrobe RIGHT NOW.
You really don't.
Use what you have. Ask more questions. Read beyond the marketing claims. And when something genuinely needs replacing, you now have one more piece of information to help you choose what comes next.
Small, informed choices over time > trying to create a perfectly “toxin-free” life overnight!
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