Fabric Protector Spray (PFAS)

Aftermarket stain-repellent sprays for furniture, shoes and carpet.

37High burden · out of 100

Cleaner swapSkip the spray; choose untreated natural-fibre textiles and blot spills promptly

How this score is built

100Start
67.8Chemical hazard 7 × 4.6−32.2
57.6Everyday exposure 3 × 3.4−10.2
37Persistence 8 × 2.6−20.8, then rounded to 37
HighThe band37 sits in 20–39.

What each input rests on

The three ratings behind the score, and the studies each rests on
Input	Rating	Evidence
Chemical hazard	7/10	unsourced input
Everyday exposure	3/10	Spraying a fluorinated-polymer stain-repellent resin gave significant near-field exposure to overspray mist; the authors relate the sprayers' acute respiratory illness to the fluorinated polymer itself. Characterizing emission and breathing-zone concentrations following exposure cases to fluororesin-based waterproofing spray mists · J Occup Environ Hyg 2004 DOI 10.1080/15459620490490084 · PMID 15559330 · Abstract, Results and conclusion · read 2026-10-02
Persistence	8/10	unsourced input

Ratings are editorial. A study listed here supports the rating; it did not compute it. How the index is built

What this means for you

The chemical-hazard rating is what drives the score down. Many stain and water repellents rely on PFAS, the persistent fluorinated compounds that build up in the body and environment. Aerosol application also means you inhale the mist.

Evidence strength: strong

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Lower-exposure choices

Vinegar & Baking Soda CleaningMinimal · Home

All 36 home entries, highest burden first →