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Glen Raven making a major sustainable change to its global fabric portfolio.

2023-05-31

Burlington, N.C. – By the end of this year, something will be missing from all Glen Raven fabrics.As part of its longstanding commitment to transparency and sustainable practices, family-owned company has begun phasing out PFAS chemicals. In addition, all new fabric designs, including for Glen Raven’s flagship Sunbrella brand, will be specified as non-PFAS and will be produced using the company’s new non-PFAS solution.

PFAS-free fabrics are top of mind for many textile suppliers in 2023 as new regulations banning PFAS chemicals from the category roll out in select states this year.Described as a class of chemicals that don’t naturally break down, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroakyl substances) are used in a variety of products including carpets, nonstick cookware and textiles, including some performance fabrics.

The new non-PFAS chemistry meets all regulatory requirements. Sunbrella upholstery fabrics will continue to carry their third-party Greenguard Gold and Oeko-Tex certifications verifying that the fabrics have low chemical emissions, are safe to use next to the skin and are not produced with any harmful substances. “We are confident in the integrity of this decision for our business and look forward to working closely with our partners to navigate this transition as an industry,” said Dave Swers, president and COO of Glen Raven Custom Fabrics.

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