PFAS-Free Fabrics: Why Boody Avoids Forever Chemicals

There's a category of synthetic chemicals that's been in the news for a few years now. You might have heard them called "forever chemicals." The proper name is PFAS, per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances. And they've turned up somewhere you probably wouldn't expect: underwear.

What Are PFAS?

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been used in products designed to resist water, grease and stains. They're called "forever chemicals" because they don't break down naturally in the environment or in the human body; they persist, accumulate, and build up over time.

In the textile industry, PFAS treatments are most commonly used in technical garments: rainwear, outdoor gear, stain-resistant clothing. For everyday essentials like underwear and bras, they're not typically necessary. But they've been found in some period underwear products, likely used to create the leak-resistant barrier layer.

Why PFAS in Clothing Is a Problem

PFAS don't stay where they're applied. They can migrate through the skin, leach into water supplies during washing, and accumulate in ecosystems and in the body over time. Some studies have linked prolonged exposure to certain PFAS compounds with health concerns including hormonal disruption, thyroid disease and increased cancer risk.

This is particularly significant for period underwear, which is worn close to some of the most absorbent skin on the body, for multiple hours at a time, often repeatedly throughout the month.

Boody's Position: Made Without Intentionally Added PFAS

Boody garments are made without intentionally adding PFAS. Our signature fabric, viscose derived from organically grown bamboo, delivers softness, breathability and moisture-wicking performance naturally, without relying on chemical finishes.

We don't need PFAS treatments because our fabric works the way it does because of what it is, not because of what we've coated it with.

Independent Testing for Our Period Range

For our Period & Leak Proof Underwear range, we've gone a step further. The range has been independently tested by TUV Rheinland in Germany, one of the world's most respected testing organisations, to verify zero traces of PFAS. Not just "we didn't add any." Independently tested and verified absent.

Our fabrics are also certified to OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which includes PFAS as part of its comprehensive harmful substances testing. Two layers of independent verification, one clear result.

What Boody Fabrics Deliver Without Chemical Treatments

Our bamboo viscose is naturally:

• Moisture-wicking, draws moisture away from the skin to keep you feeling fresh

• Temperature-regulating, breathable and comfortable year-round

• Odour-resistant, helps reduce unwanted odours for longer-lasting wear

• Soft and skin-safe, non-toxic, gentle on skin, including sensitive skin

• Hypoallergenic, less likely to trigger skin reactions

These properties come from the fibre itself. No chemical treatment required.

How to Check if Your Clothing Contains PFAS

PFAS aren't always listed on clothing labels, which makes independent certification the most reliable way to get reassurance. Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certification, which requires testing against a comprehensive list of harmful substances including PFAS. If a brand can't point to independent third-party testing, the claim of "PFAS-free" is just that: a claim.

 

SHOP PERIOD & LEAK-PROOF UNDERWEAR

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are PFAS banned in Australia?

Some PFAS chemicals are now restricted or banned in Australia under environmental regulations. However, PFAS refers to a large group of chemicals and not all are prohibited. Regulations continue to evolve as governments work to better manage their environmental impact.

What types of clothing typically contain PFAS?

PFAS are most commonly used in technical garments such as rainwear, outdoor gear and stain-resistant clothing. Some period underwear brands have also been found to use PFAS treatments in their leak-proof barrier layers.

Is Boody's period underwear PFAS-free?

Yes. Boody's Period & Leak Proof Underwear range has been independently tested by TUV Rheinland to verify zero traces of PFAS. All Boody fabrics are also certified to OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which includes PFAS testing.

What makes bamboo viscose a good alternative to chemically treated fabrics?

Bamboo viscose is naturally moisture-wicking, breathable, soft and odour-resistant. These properties come from the fibre itself, not from chemical finishes. This makes it well suited to underwear and skin-contact garments without needing PFAS or other synthetic treatments.