In a regulatory update on November 20, 2025, the Washington State Department of Ecology significantly expanded restrictions and reporting requirements for the use of PFAS in consumer products. These changes are part of the “Safer Products” program under WAC 173-337, with the goal of reducing toxic chemicals. While maintaining existing obligations, the new rules add three new product categories to the PFAS restrictions: apparel and accessories (excluding certain PPE), automotive wash products, and cleaning products. The production, sale and distribution of products containing PFASs in these categories will be banned after January 1, 2027. The regulation also expands the reporting scope, requiring annual reporting of intentional PFAS use in nine additional product categories (footwear, kitchenware, recreational equipment, automotive waxes, floor waxes, etc.). The first reports for products manufactured in these categories will be submitted by January 31, 2027. In addition, a new de minimis threshold has been defined, where products with a total fluorine concentration above 50 ppm will be considered as “intentionally PFAS-containing”. Updated definitions and clarifications for cleaning products also clarify the applicability of the rule. This regulation directly affects all manufacturers and retailers in Washington who handle products containing PFAS.
Washington State Expands PFAS Restrictions and Reporting Requirements
Washington State expanded its PFAS restrictions with an update adopted on November 20, 2025, adding clothing, automotive washing, and cleaning products to the ban effective January 1, 2027.
