JBL · Waterproof Phone Chargers & Cable Cases
Jbl Flip 3 Splashproof Portable Speaker Replacement Usb Charging Cable Lead
Lower concern. Standard USB cable with no known PFAS triggers.
This is a basic USB charging cable for a JBL speaker. Standard cables typically contain rubber, copper, and plastic with no identified PFAS risk factors.
Shop JBL on Amazon →Material
USB cable, likely rubber and copper
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
Why this grade
Safe base material
Made from a material with no inherent PFAS use (ceramic, mineral, or natural fiber).
Category baseline
other is a category where PFAS exposure is more common.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement about PFAS in this product.
The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
This is a standard USB charging cable, typically composed of copper wire conductors, PVC or TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) outer sheathing, and metal connectors (usually nickel-plated brass). USB cables are passive data and power conduits with minimal chemical exposure risk during normal use. The sheathing material's primary function is electrical insulation and mechanical protection, not food or skin contact, which significantly reduces hazard pathways compared to food-contact plastics.
The brand's record and disclosure
JBL (Harman subsidiary, owned by Samsung) does not publish detailed chemical transparency reports for accessory cables. The brand has no known public controversies or recalls specific to USB cable safety. JBL maintains general consumer safety certifications (FCC, CE) for its electronics but does not typically disclose material sourcing or restricted substance testing for simple cable replacements.
How it compares in its category
Replacement USB cables are commodity items with minimal variation in hazard profile across brands. OEM (original equipment manufacturer) cables like this JBL variant carry the advantage of design-matched connectors and documented compatibility, reducing risk of poor contact and overheating compared to off-brand alternatives. Third-party cables occasionally show quality-control issues with insulation thickness or connector durability, but chemical hazards are broadly equivalent.
If you buy it
Keep the cable away from sharp edges and excessive bending stress; repeatedly crimped cables can degrade insulation and create shock or fire risk. Do not leave connected to power in high-temperature environments (above 80C ambient). Replace immediately if outer sheathing cracks, shows bare copper, or connector becomes loose or hot during charging. Store in a cool, dry location; UV exposure and moisture can accelerate rubber/PVC degradation over years.
Beyond PFAS: other things we checked
Established hazard classes for this product type, assessed from public information. These never change the PFAS grade; a Likely flag caps the Verdict at “Buy with care.”
Insulation degradation and electrical hazard
PVC or TPE sheathing can crack or become brittle over 2-5 years of use, depending on storage conditions and mechanical stress. Degraded insulation raises risk of short circuits, sparks, or contact with live conductors during charging.
Metal connector corrosion and poor contact
Nickel-plated connectors can oxidize or corrode if exposed to moisture or salt spray, causing high-resistance connections that generate heat during charging. Corroded contacts increase risk of slow charging, device damage, or localized overheating.
Phthalates in PVC outer sheathing
If the cable uses traditional PVC (polyvinyl chloride) with plasticizers, phthalates may be present, though direct exposure is minimal during normal handling. Phthalates are not a concern for intermittent contact but can leach if cable is stored in heat or direct sunlight for extended periods.
No antimicrobial or flame-retardant additives of concern
USB cables typically do not contain antimicrobial agents, brominated flame retardants, or other restricted additives. Standard cable materials meet UL safety standards without relying on hazardous chemical additives.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 72% confidence. It is not a lab result.
No independent PFAS lab test is on record for this exact product. A lab test could move the score in either direction.
The brand has not made a specific, verifiable PFAS-free statement, so part of this score reflects that missing disclosure rather than a confirmed material.
Formulations and coatings change between production runs. Always check the current label before buying.
Safer alternatives in Waterproof Phone Chargers & Cable Cases
Nomad
Universal Cable
Braided nylon and metal connectors
Lower concern. Nylon cable has minimal PFAS risk.
✓Naturally PFAS-free material
More waterproof phone chargers & cable cases grades
How we score: every product runs through the same public 0–100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.