State proposes restrictions on toxic ‘forever chemicals’ in common consumer products

The Washington Department of Ecology is proposing a rule to restrict the use of per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances – better known as PFAS – in common consumer products including clothing, cleaning products and car wash soap. The rule would also require manufacturers to report if they use PFAS in nine other product categories.

PFAS are a group of toxic chemicals that resist water, stains, and heat. Although those qualities have made them widely used in a range of products, these chemicals have also been shown to build up in people, animals, and the environment over time. They’re often called “forever chemicals” because they don’t break down in the environment.

People can be exposed to PFAS when they use products with PFAS. Consumer products can also release PFAS into the dust or air. Man