REI · Waterproof Outdoor Gear Storage
REI Co-op Trailgate Gear Bin
Lower concern, but verify material composition before purchase.
REI does not disclose PFAS treatment or material specifics for this gear bin. Standard outdoor fabric containers often use water-repellent coating coatings, which may contain PFAS. Contact REI directly for material and treatment details.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Fabric blend, likely polyester or nylon base
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
The REI Co-op Trailgate Gear Bin is a fabric-based storage container, likely constructed from polyester, nylon, or a blend thereof. These synthetic fibers are stable in normal storage use but may retain residual dyes, sizing agents, and formaldehyde-based finishing resins applied during manufacturing. The non-rigid fabric construction means no coating degradation risk (unlike rigid plastic bins), but the material's chemical treatment history warrants attention, especially if contents will contact skin or food.
The brand's record and disclosure
REI Co-op is known for relatively transparent environmental and safety positioning, though detailed chemical composition disclosures on individual gear bins are not routinely published. The brand has not faced major recalls or documented safety controversies tied to fabric storage products. REI does not prominently advertise chemical certifications (e.g., OEKO-TEX, GOTS) for this category of product, and PFAS stance remains unconfirmed for this specific item.
How it compares in its category
Fabric storage bins are generally lower-risk than plastic clamshell containers because they lack rigid polymer coatings that can leach. REI's version sits in the mid-range for construction quality and material transparency versus branded alternatives; cotton-canvas or certified organic options exist but often cost more. This product is safer than lined vinyl or rubber bins, which carry higher VOC and plasticizer risks.
If you buy it
Wash or air-out the bin in sunlight for 24-48 hours before first use to off-gas residual dyes and finishing chemicals. Store dry items, textiles, and gear only; avoid prolonged contact with food or cosmetics. Inspect regularly for mold or mildew, especially in humid climates, and air-dry fully after cleaning. Replace if seams degrade or fabric shows discoloration that suggests mold colonization.
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.”
Formaldehyde-based finishing resins
Polyester and nylon fabrics are commonly treated with formaldehyde-releasing resins for wrinkle resistance and sizing. REI does not disclose treatment specifics; off-gassing is typically mild for storage items but may be noticeable on first opening.
Azo dyes and residual dye chemicals
Synthetic fabric bins use synthetic dyes; no evidence of azo-dye bans at REI, but residual dye and color-setting chemicals may persist on untreated fabric. Pre-wash protocols reduce exposure.
Mold and mildew growth if moisture trapped
Fabric bins can trap humidity if sealed or stored in damp conditions, creating habitat for mold and microbial growth. This is not a material defect but a use-context risk.
Microplastic shedding during washing
No documented shedding issues reported for REI fabric bins. Synthetic textiles do shed fibers, but for a storage container, this is not a direct consumer contact hazard unless contents are food-adjacent.
Heavy metals in pigments
No recalls or reports link REI fabric bins to cadmium, lead, or antimony contamination. Standard fabric dyes are regulated under consumer safety laws; undisclosed presence is unlikely.
What we don’t know
This grade is a model-based estimate from public materials, coatings, and brand disclosure at 60% 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 Outdoor Gear Storage
REI
Humangear Stax
polypropylene plastic
Lower concern. Polypropylene stacking containers lack PFAS triggers.
✓Naturally PFAS-free material
More waterproof outdoor gear storage 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.