PFAS in Scrubs and Work Uniforms: Healthcare Worker Safety

PFAS are called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment or in your body. Scrub manufacturers have used PFAS-based coatings for years to make fabric water-resistant, stain-repellent, or wrinkle-free. If you wear scrubs every shift, that’s a lot of skin contact with treated fabric over time. Here’s what to watch for and how to find cleaner alternatives.

For more on PFAS-free living, see our guide to PFAS free camping gear and top PFAS free water filters.

The Health Case for Avoiding PFAS in Medical Scrubs

A 2023 review in eBioMedicine pulled together evidence linking PFAS exposure to thyroid problems, immune system changes, and developmental issues in children. Healthcare workers already face higher chemical exposures on the job than most people. Choosing scrubs without PFAS coatings is one of the simpler ways to lower your overall body burden.

How to Identify PFAS-Free Scrubs and Medical Uniforms

Labels won’t always tell you. Manufacturers aren’t required to disclose PFAS use on consumer products in most U.S. states. Here’s what actually helps:

• Certifications: OEKO-TEX Standard 100, bluesign, and GOTS certification prohibit PFAS in certified products.
• Avoid key terms: “Water-resistant,” “stain-resistant,” “wrinkle-free,” or “antimicrobial” on scrubs often signal DWR or PFAS-based treatments.
• Contact brands directly: Ask whether their products use fluorinated treatments or coatings. Reputable brands will answer clearly.
• Check the PFAS Free Life Database for tested, verified products across hundreds of categories.

Safe Scrubs and Medical Uniform Recommendations

When switching away from PFAS-containing scrubs, look for:

• GOTS-certified organic cotton scrubs that are tested and free from harmful chemicals including PFAS
• Brands with published chemical policies that can confirm fluorine-free treatments
• Uncoated cotton or cotton-blend scrubs that skip the “stain-resistant” marketing altogether

One trusted product to consider: Percent Apparel Organic Cotton Scrub Top, V-Neck, Unisex. Percent Apparel makes the first GOTS-certified organic cotton medical scrub on the market, with zero chemical treatments applied to the fabric.

You can also browse more options on Amazon: PFAS-free organic cotton scrubs.

Additional Tips to Reduce Your PFAS Exposure from Work Uniforms

Beyond what you buy, a few habits help too:

• Wash new scrubs before first use to reduce surface chemical loads
• Choose uncoated cotton or organic cotton scrubs over synthetic blends with “antimicrobial” or “wrinkle-free” finishes
• Ventilate your home since PFAS can off-gas and settle into household dust, which is a bigger exposure route than most people realize
• Filter your drinking water with a reverse osmosis system, which is the most effective household option for PFAS removal

For a broader reduction plan, check out our guide to top PFAS free water filters and the PFAS Free Life Database.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do all scrubs products contain PFAS?

No, not all scrubs products contain PFAS. However, many products that are marketed as water-resistant, stain-resistant, or antimicrobial have historically used PFAS-based treatments. The safest approach is to look for third-party certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or GOTS, or to contact the manufacturer directly to ask about their chemical policy.

How do I know if my scrubs have PFAS?

Without laboratory testing, it can be difficult to know for certain. Watch for marketing terms like “water-repellent,” “stain-guard,” “antimicrobial,” or “wrinkle-free” which often signal PFAS treatments. Look for certifications like OEKO-TEX Standard 100 or bluesign that prohibit PFAS. You can also search the PFAS Free Life Database at database.pfasfreelife.com for verified clean products.

What health risks are linked to PFAS in scrubs?

PFAS exposure from consumer products has been associated with several health concerns, including elevated cholesterol, immune system disruption, hormone interference, and in some cases increased cancer risk. Children and pregnant women are considered especially vulnerable. The good news is that reducing exposure through product swaps can lower your body burden over time, as PFAS do eventually clear from the body when exposure stops.