Fitbit · Waterproof Smartphone Cases
Fitbit Charge 6 Health & Fitness Tracker
No coating described, and no PFAS statement from the brand.
The product information we reviewed describes plastic band, metal buckle, with no water-repellent coating named. Water resistance on products like this usually comes from the material and its seals rather than a surface treatment. The brand has published no PFAS statement for it.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Plastic band, metal buckle
Brand disclosure
Brand is silent on PFAS
Lab data
No public lab test
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.
Nickel allergen (metal buckle)
If the buckle is nickel-plated, direct contact with sensitive skin could trigger contact dermatitis in individuals with nickel allergy. Fitbit does not specify the buckle plating composition; stainless steel alternatives exist but are not confirmed for this model.
Bacterial growth (elastomer band)
Elastomer bands worn against skin in warm, moist conditions can harbor bacteria if not cleaned regularly. This is a maintenance issue rather than a material defect, but users with compromised skin should be aware.
Elastomer degradation over time
Thermoplastic elastomers can degrade with prolonged UV exposure, high heat, or repeated flexing, potentially releasing oligomers (small polymer fragments). No established toxicant release has been documented for Fitbit bands, but replacement every 1-2 years is typical for wearable bands.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
BPA & bisphenols
Fitbit does not disclose whether the band elastomer contains BPA, BPS, or phthalates. Many modern TPU formulations are phthalate-free, and no consumer complaints or recalls tied to chemical leaching have been reported for Charge 6 bands.
Source, FDA ↗Heavy metals
Stainless steel and aluminum alloys used in watch buckles are stable and do not leach measurable quantities of chromium, cadmium, or lead under normal skin contact. No recalls or documented incidents for Fitbit Charge 6 buckles.
Source, FDA ↗The full breakdown
What it's made of and why it matters
The Fitbit Charge 6 uses a plastic elastomer band (typical thermoplastic polyurethane or silicone blend) paired with a stainless steel or aluminum alloy metal buckle. Elastomer bands are chosen for wearables because they resist moisture, flex repeatedly without cracking, and do not require protective coatings that might leach chemicals. The metal buckle is typically nickel-plated or stainless to prevent corrosion and skin contact with reactive metals.
The brand's record and disclosure
Fitbit (owned by Google since 2021) does not publicly disclose material safety test results or chemical content for the Charge 6 band and buckle. The company has no known recalls for chemical leaching, allergic reactions, or toxicant contamination of wearable bands. Fitbit does not publish PFAS statements, though the Charge 6 has no documented coating that would introduce PFAS risk.
How it compares in its category
Fitness trackers like the Charge 6 are lower-risk than cookware or cosmetics because they do not contact food, skin for prolonged periods, or enter the body. Compared to smartwatch bands made of rubber or leather, thermoplastic elastomer is more durable and less prone to degradation. Most competitors (Apple Watch, Garmin) use similar materials with equivalent transparency; Fitbit's safety profile is consistent with the category.
If you buy it
Clean the band weekly with mild soap and water, and dry thoroughly to prevent bacterial growth in contact areas, especially if you have sensitive skin. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme heat (>60C/140F) or direct sunlight, as elastomers can soften and lose shape over time. Replace the band if it tears, develops sticky residue, or causes persistent skin irritation. Store in a cool, dry place when not in use.
What we don’t know
- Basis
- Model estimate, 45% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Fitbit has made none
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
More waterproof smartphone 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.