PFAS-Free Station Wear

PFAS-Free Firefighter Station Wear:

Why Merino Wool is the Safer, Smarter and Healthier Choice. Firefighters put their lives on the line every day. What many don’t know is that their station wear uniforms contain toxic chemicals linked to cancer, hormone disruption, infertility, and chronic illnesses.

A recent scientific study found that commonly used fabrics—especially synthetic
ones—often contain PFAS, heavy metals like antimony, chromium, and halogenated
flame retardants.
If you’re looking for non-toxic, PFAS-free firefighter station wear, there’s one clear
standout: Armadillo Woolery Saber Station Wear made with Merino wool.

The Hidden Dangers in Firefighter Station Wear

Most station wear is treated to resist stains, water, or flames. But the additives used come with a price:
 PFAS (forever chemicals): Used for water repellency, these are linked to cancers, liver
damage, thyroid problems, and reproductive issues.
 Halogenated flame retardants: Chlorinated and Brominated chemicals that disrupt
hormones and may cause neurological damage.
 Heavy metals (antimony, chromium, lead): Used in dyes and flame-retardant
formulations, these can cause dermatitis and long-term health effects.

Our researchers used advanced screening methods (PIGE and PIXE) to analyze 57 articles of station wear fabrics. Over 86% showed signs of chemical contamination, especially synthetic blends and “flame-resistant” textiles.

Why Armadillo Woolery Wool Is the Healthier Choice

Merino Wool, especially undyed or minimally processed like ours at Armadillo Woolery is the cleanest and safest fabric to wear.

 
Here’s why wool outperforms:

 ✅ Naturally flame-resistant – no need for added chemicals
 ✅ PFAS-free and non-toxic – safe for long-term skin contact
 ✅ Breathable and temperature-regulating – keeps firefighters cool and dry
 ✅ Biodegradable and sustainable – better for people and the planet

Unlike synthetic station wear, wool doesn't rely on chemical coatings to meet performance
standards—it’s inherently protective and naturally durable.

Wool vs. Treated Synthetics: A Safer Alternative

The study also revealed that some treated aramid fabrics use a zinc borate flame retardant, which is less toxic than antimony. However, even zinc-treated synthetics can't match the chemical-free and PFAS free performance Merino wool. Moreover, cotton and wool garments showed the lowest levels of PFAS and heavy metals, especially when undyed. That makes wool an ideal option for fire departments.  At Armadillo Woolery we make PFAS-free Station Wear for firefighters everywhere.

Conclusion: Firefighter Uniforms Shouldn’t Be a Health Risk

The takeaway? Naturally flame-resistant wool station wear is the smartest, safest and healthiest choice. As more departments learn about the risks of toxic additives in standard uniforms, the demand for chemical-free and PFAS-free station wear will only grow.
If you're ready to protect your crew from the hidden hazards in their current uniforms; consider switching to Merino wool station wear that’s PFAS-free, flame-resistant, and built for real-world performance sold only by Armadillo Woolery.

Shop PFAS-Free Station Wear/Uniforms Made from Merino Wool at ArmadilloWoolery.com

Because protecting firefighters doesn't stop when the fire's out.