A 2022 peer-reviewed study detected PFAS in every anti-fog spray and cloth it tested, with reported concentrations reaching 25,000 micrograms per milliliter in sprays and 185,000 micrograms per gram in cloths. Those are maxima from a small set of samples—not market-wide averages—and the study did not show that using these products causes illness in people.
What the researchers tested
Herkert and colleagues analyzed four commercial anti-fog sprays, five anti-fog cloth products, and two commercial fluorosurfactant formulations suspected of being used to make anti-fog products. The study, published in Environmental Science & Technology in 2022, examined targeted non-ionic and ionic PFAS, added analysis for fluorotelomer ethoxylates (FTEOs), and measured total organic fluorine (TOF). Read the peer-reviewed study.
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Fluorotelomer alcohols (FTOHs) and FTEOs were detected in all tested products and formulations. The 6:2 FTOH and 6:2 FTEO polymeric series predominated; one cloth and one formulation also contained longer-chain fluorotelomer series.
How much PFAS did the study find?
The study reported these ranges and maxima for its tested samples:
#1 Best Overall
- Highly Effective on All Lenses and AR Coatings: The FOG FREE+ anti-fog spray lens cleaner was developed for safe use on all lenses including those with Anti-Reflective (AR) coatings. FOG FREE+ is great on eyeglasses, sunglasses, sport glasses, helmet shields, dive masks, safety glasses, virtual reality headsets, camera lenses, goggles and more.
- Easy to Use: Spray once on both sides of the lens; rub the solution with your fingers to cover the entire surface of the lens; wait 30 seconds then gently wipe with a soft paper towel or cloth. Reapply when fogging begins to occur.
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| Measurement | Anti-fog sprays | Anti-fog cloths |
|---|---|---|
| Reported PFAS concentration | Up to 25,000 μg/mL | Up to 185,000 μg/g of cloth |
| Total organic fluorine (TOF) | 190–20,700 μg/mL | 44,200–131,500 μg/g of cloth |
These figures are from Herkert et al. (2022), not representative-market averages. The units differ between sprays and cloths, so the raw figures should not be compared as if they measured the same amount of product. The PFAS maxima are also distinct from TOF: TOF is a broader measure of organic fluorine, not a concentration for one specific PFAS.
Quantified FTOHs and FTEOs accounted for 1–99% of TOF mass across the tested samples. That wide range means the identified compounds did not explain all measured organic fluorine in every sample.
Rank #2
- Ultra-Smooth Protective Barrier: Designed as a protective coating rather than a traditional cleaner, our advanced LESS technology creates a crystal-clear protective layer on shower glass, mirrors, and windows. It repels soap scum and hard water stains, while reducing streaks. Surfaces stay shinier for longer, cutting down deep cleaning frequency and giving your bathroom a polished, professional look without harsh scrubbing or repeated chemical use
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- Safe PFAS-Free Formula – Unlike harsh chemical cleaners, this spray-on coating is non-toxic, silicone-based, and engineered without PFAS or PFOA. Safe for daily home use, it delivers strong professional-grade stain resistance while reducing chemical exposure, giving you peace of mind knowing your bathroom surfaces are protected without hidden contaminants
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What the cell tests do—and do not—show
In laboratory tests using murine 3T3-L1 cells, all four sprays and both commercial formulations showed significant cytotoxicity and adipogenic activity. The latter included triglyceride accumulation and/or pre-adipocyte proliferation. The researchers suggested FTEOs contributed substantially to the adipogenic activity observed with the sprays.
This is an in vitro hazard signal, not evidence that ordinary use exposes a person to a particular dose or causes illness. The study did not measure consumer exposure, establish clinical health effects, or determine the risk to users. The authors said further research is needed to understand potential health risks.
Rank #3
- Instant Anti-Fog, Clear Vision: Instant-acting anti fog formula quickly eliminates fog on eyeglasses, swim goggles, dive masks, ski goggles, and more—keeping your vision clear whether you're training, competing, or going about your day.
- Long-Lasting Clear Vision: Forms a durable protective layer that effectively resists fog caused by temperature changes, humidity, and sweat, preventing condensation for hours and significantly reducing the need for frequent reapplication.
- Easy Streak-Free Application: Equipped with a precision fine-mist nozzle, it delivers a delicate, uniform spray that covers the entire lens surface evenly; after spraying, wait a moment for it to dry naturally and form an anti-fog film, then gently wipe with a microfiber cloth for a streak-free, non-greasy, crystal-clear finish.
- Wide Compatibility, Lens-Safe: Packaged in a compact 30 mL (1 fl oz) bottle, it is compatible with a wide range of lens materials and gentle on lenses, delivering approximately 200 sprays per bottle for long-lasting value and reliable everyday use.
- Portable & Versatile: The compact bottle slips easily into any bag or pocket, making it the perfect companion for sports, work, and travel—keeping your vision clear anytime, anywhere, so you're always ready for whatever comes next.
Does this mean all anti-fog products contain PFAS?
No. The findings apply to the four sprays, five cloths, and two formulations analyzed in this 2022 study. They do not establish the composition of every product then on sale, or of products sold in 2026. Nor does this study verify any current product as PFAS-free. A claim about a particular product would require reliable, product-specific evidence, and no current product-to-product comparison follows from these results alone.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FOG-FREE PERFORMANCE: Our optical-grade spray is streak-free, non-toxic, and safe on plastic and treated lenses, stopping fog on hockey visors, football shields, goggles, and more—to keep you staying sharp every shift.
- MULTI-SPORT USE: Works for hockey, football, airsoft, ski goggles, snorkeling masks, motorcycle helmets, and more.
- INSTRUCTIONS: Shake well and spray onto a lint-free soft fiber cloth. Generously wipe evenly to the surface of the visor. After allowing the visor to air dry, lightly polish until clean. Repeat if necessary.
- MADE IN THE USA: Includes 4 fl. oz. bottle with premium anti-fog formula—trusted by pros and weekend warriors alike.
- INGREDIENTS: Deionized water, Isopropyl alcohol, Surfactant
Rank #4
- ZEISS Fog Defender System is an easy to use spray that keeps your lenses from fogging for up, even while wearing a mask - Packaging May Vary
- Fog-free vision for up to 72 hours
- Easy to use: Spray both sides of the lenses with the ZEISS Fog Defender System and wipe with the included microfiber cloth until dry
- Ideal for: glasses, sunglasses, binoculars, camera lenses, swim goggles, ski goggles, and face shields
What to take away
- PFAS were detected in every anti-fog product and formulation examined in the study.
- The reported highest concentrations are sample-specific maxima, not typical values for the market.
- Cell activity in a lab does not establish exposure or harm to people from using the products.
- The study does not settle the composition or safety of products currently available.
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