Rule would restrict PFAS “forever chemicals” in apparel, cleaning products, and more—and require reporting in gear, cookware, waxes, and sealers
Toxic-Free Future urges the state to fully use its authority and calls for stronger action to restrict PFAS where safer alternatives exist
Olympia, WA—On June 4, 2025, the Washington Department of Ecology proposed a draft regulation to require restrictions and reporting requirements related to the intentional use of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) in 12 product categories. PFAS “forever chemicals” are linked to cancer, reproductive and developmental harm, and environmental contamination.
This proposed rule is part of implementation of a PFAS law intended to speed up action under Safer Products for Washington—the nation’s strongest law regulating toxic chemicals in everyday products.
Proposed restrictions and reporting requirements
The proposed rule restricts the intentional use of PFAS in the following product categories:
- Apparel and accessories
- Automotive washes
- Cleaning products
It would also require manufacturers to report PFAS use in:
- Cookware and kitchen supplies
- Firefighting PPE (personal protective equipment)
- Floor waxes and polishes
- Hard surface sealers
- Apparel for extreme and extended use
- Footwear
- Gear for recreation and travel
- Automotive waxes
- Ski waxes
These proposed restrictions and reporting requirements would apply to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers of these product categories in Washington state, including products sold online and in stores.
In response to this news, Toxic-Free Future released the following statement by Cheri Peele, director of government and market policy:
“We applaud the new restrictions on PFAS in products. However, with PFAS in the blood of nearly every American, we need bold action—not half measures. It’s disappointing that Ecology failed to restrict PFAS in all categories where safer alternatives are available, such as nonstick cookware. The longer toxic ‘forever chemicals’ remain in use, the worse—and more expensive—the problem becomes.”
In the newly adopted 2025–2027 state budget, the legislature allocated over $20 million for PFAS cleanup and mitigation, but only $750,000 for PFAS prevention related to products.
Four of the product categories that now face reporting mandates—including cookware and kitchen supplies; firefighting PPE; floor waxes and polishes; and hard surface sealers—have also been targeted for continued evaluation of safer alternatives in Cycle 2 of Safer Products for Washington. If safer alternatives are identified, restrictions could be finalized in 2028.
ABOUT SAFER PRODUCTS FOR WASHINGTON
The Safer Products for Washington Act is the nation’s strongest law regulating toxic chemicals in products—a major source of contamination in our homes, food, waterways, and bodies. Passed in 2019, this precedent-setting law helps protect people and the environment from toxic chemical exposure and pollution.
The law directs state agencies to identify products that are significant sources of high-priority chemicals and gives Washington’s Department of Ecology the authority to take action to reduce them. Ecology can ban or require the disclosure of harmful chemicals in a wide range of products—including plastics, personal care products, electronics, and building materials. The law also empowers Ecology to require companies to disclose full ingredient information to support regulatory decisions and protect public health.
TOXIC-FREE FUTURE
Toxic-Free Future is a national leader in environmental health research and advocacy. Through the power of science, education, and activism, Toxic-Free Future drives strong laws and corporate responsibility that protects the health of all people and the planet. www.toxicfreefuture.org
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