Bac-Out Stain and Odor Remover
Lower concern. Liquid cleaner with no known PFAS risk factors.
Biokleen Bac-Out is an enzymatic stain and odor remover with no surface treatments, coatings, or water-repellent finishes that typically contain PFAS. Brand makes no PFAS claims, but the product category poses minimal risk.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Enzymatic formula with plant extracts, no surface coating
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Bac-Out Stain and Odor Remover is made of, ingredients and materials
Bac-Out is formulated as an enzymatic cleaner combining active enzymes and plant-based extracts to break down organic matter in stains and odors. It contains no synthetic surfactants, dyes, or perfumes in the typical sense, relying instead on botanical ingredients and enzymatic action. The liquid formula is designed to be diluted and applied topically to fabrics and surfaces, meaning exposure to the concentrate is limited and the final use dilution further reduces any theoretical risk from individual ingredients.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Fragrance allergens and sensitizers
The product contains plant extracts, some of which (e.g., citrus oils, botanicals) are natural allergens. Individuals with sensitivities to plant-based fragrances may experience contact dermatitis or respiratory irritation; dilution in use reduces this risk.
Acute toxicity from ingestion or eye contact
Concentrated enzymatic formulas can cause irritation if undiluted liquid contacts mucous membranes or eyes. The product carries standard warning labels for this reason; normal use and dilution make serious harm unlikely.
Microbial growth or contamination during storage
Liquid enzymatic cleaners in open or frequently-opened containers may develop bacterial or mold growth over extended storage, especially in warm environments. Keep the cap sealed tightly and discard if discoloration or odor changes occur.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Formaldehyde / VOCs
Biokleen does not list these as ingredients, and enzymatic cleaners do not typically require them as preservatives or surfactants. No historical reports link Bac-Out to these contaminants.
Source, ATSDR ↗Heavy metals
Bac-Out contains no stated colorants, dyes, or mineral pigments that would introduce lead, cadmium, or antimony. No recalls or testing data suggest heavy metal contamination in this product line.
Source, FDA ↗How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Biokleen has positioned itself in the natural and plant-based cleaning market for decades, with a stated commitment to non-toxic formulations. The brand does not prominently disclose third-party certifications (such as EPA Safer Choice or EcocertVerfied) on major retail listings, though ingredient transparency is relatively high compared to conventional cleaners. No significant safety recalls or established controversies specific to Bac-Out are on record in public databases.
How it compares in its category
Enzymatic cleaners like Bac-Out occupy a middle ground between conventional petroleum-based stain removers (which carry higher VOC and skin irritant risks) and simple water or vinegar solutions (which are less effective on protein-based stains). Plant-extract formulas avoid many synthetic fragrance allergens and harsh chemical hazards, though efficacy and shelf stability may lag behind synthetic alternatives. Bac-Out's approach is representative of the safer end of the commercial enzymatic cleaner spectrum.
If you buy it
Use the product as directed on the label; test on inconspicuous fabric areas first, especially on delicate materials. Avoid prolonged skin contact and do not ingest; keep away from eyes. Store in a cool place and rotate stock, enzymatic formulas can lose potency over time as enzymes degrade. Ensure adequate ventilation during application, though off-gassing risk is minimal with plant-based formulas.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 78% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Biokleen has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to Bac-Out Stain and Odor Remover?
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More laundry detergent 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.