
How to Reduce PFAS at Home
In this article, WLLW explores simple ways to protect your home and health from PFAS, often called ‘forever chemicals.’
WORDS Lisa Sternfeld
In this article, WLLW explores simple ways to protect your home and health from PFAS, often called ‘forever chemicals.’
WORDS Lisa Sternfeld
Many of the materials and everyday items in our homes contain hidden chemicals that can affect our indoor air quality and overall wellbeing. That’s why choosing safer, non-toxic alternatives is so important. We’re here to help you understand Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances (PFAS) and the risks they pose, as these chemicals are more common in our homes than we might think. Here’s a helpful guide to what you need to know.
Commonly known as ‘forever chemicals’, PFAS are synthetic compounds that are prized for their water- and grease-resistant properties and are found in a wide range of everyday products like non-stick cookware, food storage items, carpets and cosmetics. Their persistence in the environment and human body makes them difficult to eliminate, raising serious concerns about their long-term effects on health and ecosystems.
PFAS have been linked to an increased risk of cancers, such as kidney and testicular cancer, as well as hormonal disruption, particularly affecting thyroid function. Additionally, PFAS can weaken the immune system, making individuals more susceptible to infections and reducing the effectiveness of vaccines. These compounds have also been associated with liver damage, developmental issues in children and elevated cholesterol levels.
The most common way to test for PFAS is through water testing. You can either hire a professional service to test your tap water or purchase at-home testing kits designed to detect PFAS levels. Specialized labs offer services to test for PFAS in indoor air and dust, though this process is more complex and often requires sending samples to a lab for analysis.
Photography: Nadianb/Adobe
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