PFAS-free water and oil repellents are textile finishing technologies designed to resist liquid penetration such as rain, spills, and stains without the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). These technologies create a protective surface that limits wetting and absorption while maintaining fabric breathability, hand feel, and wear comfort.

Unlike traditional fluorinated repellents, PFAS-free solutions rely on carefully engineered polymer and bio-based surface chemistry to achieve functional repellency without introducing persistent or bio-accumulative substances. The result is performance-driven protection aligned with evolving environmental, regulatory, and brand requirements.

The Differentiation Factor

While PFAS-free chemistries differ fundamentally from fluorinated systems, modern formulations are designed to deliver reliable, repeatable repellency suitable for apparel, outdoor, and lifestyle textiles. Performance is optimized through formulation balance, application control, and curing conditions rather than reliance on persistent fluorine chemistry. Durability is achieved through chemical bonding, film integrity, and proper process alignment that ensures repellency that lasts across multiple wash cycles while preserving fabric aesthetics and comfort.

PFAS-free repellents modify the textile surface energy to reduce and mitigate the spreading and penetration of liquids. Through precise molecular design, these finishes orient hydrophobic and oleophobic components at the fabric surface, causing water and oils to bead and roll off rather than wet out. Advanced systems are engineered to anchor effectively to fiber surfaces to provide durability even after laundering and frequent use. The application of such technologies is typically compatible with standard textile finishing equipment and processes, allowing for mills to transition without major process changes or productivity loss.

The Added Value

Regulatory pressure, consumer awareness, and brand responsibility have fundamentally shifted expectations around water-repellent finishes. PFAS compounds are increasingly restricted due to their environmental persistence and long-term health concerns, creating an urgent need for safer alternatives that do not compromise functionality.

For brands and mills, PFAS-free repellents are no longer optional—they are a strategic requirement. Solutions must balance performance, durability, process compatibility, and compliance, while supporting long-term product stewardship and responsible material design.

Available Technologies