Do Outdoor Product Sealers Contain PFAS?

If you’re like me—a mom on a mission to keep my family healthy and protect the planet—you’ve probably wondered about what’s lurking in outdoor gear and sealers. Well, spoiler alert: many outdoor product sealers, from waterproofing sprays for your jacket to sealers for wood and stone, have historically contained PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These are the infamous “forever chemicals,” named so because they stubbornly stick around in our bodies and the environment for ages. Why? Because they repel water, oil, and stains like superheroes, making them the go-to in durable water repellent (DWR) coatings for all things outdoorsy.

Here’s the scoop:

• Stone, tile, grout, and concrete sealers often rely on PFAS to keep surfaces resistant to water, oil, and even snow buildup. (Yes, snow! Who knew?) Check out more about PFAS in building materials here.
• Waterproofing sprays and DWR treatments for jackets and gear have traditionally counted on PFAS for that water-beading magic. For a deeper dive into how these forever chemicals sneak into outdoor gear, take a peek at this overview.

Are There PFAS-Free Outdoor Gear Sealers?

Good news for us health-conscious folks: PFAS-free DWR options are now a reality! Thanks to growing awareness about how forever chemicals can mess with our health and the environment, many brands have stepped up with safer, effective alternatives that don’t compromise performance.

Meet the PFAS-Free DWR Champions

• Nikwax: A fave among us nature-loving parents! Nikwax offers PFAS-free waterproofing products for clothing, footwear, and gear that are non-toxic and biodegradable—no forever chemicals here. Favorites include their Down DuoPack, Waterproofing Wax for Leather, and Softshell Proof Spray-On. You can explore more PFAS-free DWR products here.
• Patagonia: Known for their environmental commitment, Patagonia announced that as of Spring 2025, all new membranes and water-repellent finishes come without intentionally added PFAS. That’s some serious dedication! Learn more here.
• Fjällräven: These outdoors pros have been PFAS-free for over a decade! They use fluorocarbon-free impregnation for backpacks and jackets—proving you don’t need forever chemicals to perform. Check out their sustainable journey here.
• VAUDE: Already PFAS-free in their clothing fabrics, sleeping bags, backpacks, and shoes—and they’re transitioning tents to PFAS-free by 2025. More details here.
• Party Foul Sealer: A multi-purpose, water-based sealer that’s PFAS free—perfect for indoor/outdoor surfaces like wood, stone, and cement. Check it out here.
• Eco-Friendly Wood Sealers: These modern sealers waterproof and protect against UV damage without any PFAS or harmful nasties—safe enough for your garden hangouts! Learn more here.

How to Spot PFAS-Free DWR Without Microplastics

Knowing what to look for is half the battle! Here’s your mini checklist:

• Look for labels that say “PFAS-free,” “PFC-free,” or “fluorocarbon-free.”
• Certifications like bluesign®, Oeko-Tex®, or Green Shape often mean no PFAS in textiles.
• Be wary of products that only say “PFOA-free”—that just means one type of forever chemical is out, but others might still be lurking.

Tips from a Savvy Mom Scientist

• Keep up regular maintenance: PFAS-free waterproof coatings might need a bit more TLC with frequent reapplications to stay water-repellent. For tips on caring for your PFAS-free DWR gear, check this Backpacker article.
• Consider natural alternatives: Some brands use naturally water-repellent materials like wool, hemp, or waxed cotton—or rely on wax-based treatments instead of synthetic chemicals.

The Takeaway: Keeping It Clean Without Sacrificing Performance

So here’s the bottom line from one mom who’s been down the rabbit hole of forever chemicals:

• Traditional outdoor sealers often contain those pesky PFAS forever chemicals—but don’t worry!
• There are plenty of effective pfas free DWR options that protect your gear without exposing your family to toxins.
• Look closely for trusted brands and certifications—and don’t be shy about asking questions.
• While DWR without microplastics might require a bit more upkeep than chemical-laden versions, it’s a small price to pay to keep our families safe and our planet happy.

For a deeper dive into PFAS-free products and how to avoid forever chemicals in your outdoor gear routine, swing by PFAS Free DWR.

Stay safe out there—and keep those forever chemicals out of your family’s story!