Are PFAS in school uniforms a concern for children?
Yes. Research shows that PFAS exposure is linked to developmental and health issues in children, making the use of these chemicals in clothing a serious concern.
What's actually in it
School uniforms are often treated with PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These are synthetic chemicals used to make fabrics water-resistant and stain-proof. They don't just stay on the fabric: they can shed, rub off onto skin, or be inhaled as dust.
These chemicals are known as forever chemicals because they don't break down in the environment or the human body. When your child wears a uniform treated with these substances, they are in direct, daily contact with materials that have been linked to developmental problems.
What the research says
The science on how these chemicals impact children is clear and concerning. A 2026 study in Environ Res found that prenatal exposure to both long-chain and short-chain PFAS is linked to changes in cognitive development in young children.
Other peer-reviewed research highlights the long-term impact of these substances. A 2026 study in J Hazard Mater identified an association between PFAS exposure and growth patterns in children born with adverse outcomes. Furthermore, a 2026 study in Environ Pollut examined how these chemicals interact with birth outcomes, reinforcing the need to limit exposure to these persistent substances during critical stages of development.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
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