PFAS & forever chemicals
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a family of ~14,000 synthetic compounds engineered to resist heat, water, and oil. They are commonly found in non-stick cookware, stain-resistant fabrics, food packaging, waterproof clothing and dental floss.
The carbon–fluorine bond is one of the strongest in chemistry — which is why PFAS persist in soil, water and human blood for decades. The CDC has detected PFAS in the blood of 98% of Americans tested. Population-level associations with kidney cancer, thyroid disease, reduced vaccine response in children, and pre-eclampsia are documented (Sunderland et al. 2019; C8 Science Panel 2012).
Source: Sunderland EM et al. (2019). A review of the pathways of human exposure to PFAS. J Expo Sci Environ Epidemiol 29: 131–147.
Microplastics
Microplastics (<5mm) and nanoplastics (<1µm) enter the home from synthetic textiles, cling film, plastic kitchenware and personal-care products. A 2024 study found a teaspoon of microplastic in the average human brain — more than was present a decade earlier.
The largest controllable indoor source for most people is polyester bedding and clothing — millions of fibres are shed per garment per wash (De Falco et al. 2019). Our recommendation for the highest-impact change: switch sheets, pillows and base layers to GOTS-certified cotton or wool first.
How we vet a product
- Material first. We start with the substrate — wool, linen, stainless steel, borosilicate glass, untreated wood, ceramic. Plastic only when no alternative exists.
- Third-party certification. GOTS, OEKO-TEX 100, NSF/ANSI 53/58/401, OMRI, MADE SAFE — whichever applies to that category. No "self-certified" claims.
- Supplier transparency. The supplier must disclose every component, finish and coating. Where confidentiality is required, we ask for a signed CoA.
- We use it ourselves. For at least 30 days. If we wouldn't put it in our own home, it doesn't go on this site.
Have a question about a specific study, certification or product? Email us.