From 10 October 2026, an EU REACH restriction applies to perfluorohexanoic acid (PFHxA), its salts and PFHxA-related substances in clothing, related accessories and footwear intended for the general public. These substances may be used in water- and stain-repellent treatments.
Products must not be placed on the EU market where concentrations reach or exceed 25 ppb in total for PFHxA and its salts, or 1,000 ppb in total for PFHxA-related substances, measured in any homogeneous material. The restriction extends beyond PFHxA itself to substances that can degrade or transform into PFHxA.
Exemptions include specified Category III personal protective equipment, medical devices, in vitro diagnostic medical devices and textiles used as construction textiles. Products already placed on the market before 10 October 2026 are outside the restriction.
A separate restriction for other consumer textiles, leather, fur and hide products, including carpets, upholstery and bed linen, applies from 10 October 2027. The limits are calculated for homogeneous materials rather than averaged across an entire product, so thin coatings and finishing layers cannot be diluted by thicker substrates.
Businesses placing products on the EU market should review material specifications and supplier information, particularly for products using PFAS-based finishes. Supplier declarations and, where appropriate, analytical testing can help demonstrate compliance. The restriction applies under EU REACH and should not be assumed to apply automatically in Great Britain under UK REACH.
