C6 Water Repellent
Our C6 water repellent is a short-chain fluorocarbon finish that repels both water and oil, giving fabrics and finished goods durable protection where a fluorine-free finish alone is not enough. It is PFOA-free, wash-durable, and available in water- and solvent-based grades for a wide range of substrates. Request a free sample and a TDS below.
Why choose a C6 water repellent
- Water and oil repellency — sheds both, unlike a fluorine-free C0 which repels water only.
- PFOA-free — short-chain C6 chemistry, the industry’s move away from legacy C8.
- Wash-durable — with a crosslinker and cure, holds up through repeated laundering.
- Water- or solvent-based — a grade to fit your process and shipping needs.
- Multi-substrate — polyester, nylon, cotton, blends, leather and technical fabrics.
- Compliant — OEKO-TEX and ZDHC-compliant options, with a TDS and SDS for every grade.
What is a C6 water repellent?
C6 is a short-chain fluorocarbon chemistry. The fluorine gives it the low surface energy needed to repel oil as well as water, and unlike the older C8 it does not break down into PFOA. It is the choice where a product genuinely needs oil and stain repellency and PFAS is still permitted in the market. For the full comparison, see C6 vs C0 vs C8 water repellents.
C6 water repellent specifications
| Type | Short-chain (C6) fluorocarbon water and oil repellent |
| Repellency | Water and oil / stain |
| PFAS status | PFOA-free (contains fluorine) |
| Carrier | Water-based or solvent-based grades |
| Application | Pad-dry-cure, exhaust, or spray-on |
| Cure | Typically 150–170 °C with a crosslinker (grade-dependent) |
| Substrates | Polyester, nylon, cotton, blends, leather, technical fabrics |
| Compliance | OEKO-TEX and ZDHC-compliant options |
| Documentation | TDS and SDS per grade |
| Dosage & spray rating | Grade-dependent — see the TDS for your substrate |
Applications
A C6 water repellent suits products that must shed oil and stains as well as water:
- Workwear and industrial fabrics.
- Footwear and leather goods.
- Outdoor gear needing oil resistance.
- Automotive and upholstery textiles.
Compliance and documentation
Our C6 grades are available OEKO-TEX and ZDHC-compliant, with a TDS and SDS for your qualification and export records. If you need a PFAS-free alternative instead, see our fluorine-free C0 range.
Request a C6 water repellent sample
Tell us your substrate, application method and whether you need water- or solvent-based, and we will recommend a grade and send a free sample with its TDS. Request a free sample or browse the full range.
Frequently asked questions
What is a C6 water repellent?
A short-chain fluorocarbon finish that repels both water and oil. It is PFOA-free, unlike legacy C8, and is used where oil and stain repellency is needed.
Is a C6 water repellent PFAS-free?
No. C6 is PFOA-free but still contains fluorine, so it is a PFAS. For a PFAS-free finish, use a fluorine-free C0.
Does a C6 water repellent repel oil?
Yes. That is its main advantage over a fluorine-free C0 — it sheds both water and oil or greasy stains.
What substrates can a C6 water repellent be used on?
Polyester, nylon, cotton and blends, leather and technical fabrics, in water- or solvent-based grades.
Is your C6 water repellent OEKO-TEX and ZDHC compliant?
Compliant options are available, with a TDS and SDS supplied for each grade.
Water-based or solvent-based C6 — which should I choose?
Water-based is easier to ship and lower in odor; solvent-based can dry faster and wet difficult surfaces. We will advise based on your process.