Our Scoring Framework
Every product in the PFR directory is evaluated against five independent criteria. Each criterion is scored from 1 to 10, and the overall PFR Score is a weighted average. Here is exactly how we do it — and why each criterion matters.
We publish our methodology in full because we believe accountability requires transparency. If you disagree with a score, you can see exactly why we gave it — and contact us with evidence that would change our assessment.
What the PFR Score Means
The PFR Score is a number from 1.0 to 10.0. It is a weighted average of four sub-scores. A score of 9.0 or above earns the PFR Approved designation. A score of 7.5–8.9 earns PFR Recommended. Scores below 7.5 receive a PFR Reviewed listing only.
The Four Criteria
Materials
This is the most heavily weighted criterion because it directly determines whether a product exposes you to plastic or plastic-derived chemicals.
- Primary material composition (glass, stainless steel, wood, natural rubber, etc.)
- Absence of BPA, BPS, phthalates, PVC, and other plastic-derived chemicals
- Third-party material certifications (GOTS, GOLS, NSF, etc.)
- Hidden plastic components (coatings, liners, adhesives)
Packaging
A product can be plastic-free itself but ship in layers of plastic packaging. We evaluate the entire packaging system, including inner wrapping, void fill, and shipping materials.
- Outer packaging material (cardboard, paper, compostable film)
- Inner packaging and void fill
- Tape and adhesives used in shipping
- Whether packaging is recyclable, compostable, or reusable
Transparency
We believe that brands with nothing to hide, hide nothing. Transparency scores reward brands that publicly disclose their full ingredient and material lists, supply chain information, and third-party certifications.
- Full ingredient or material disclosure on the brand's website
- Third-party certifications (B Corp, USDA Organic, Fair Trade, etc.)
- Supply chain transparency and sourcing disclosure
- Clear and honest marketing claims (no greenwashing)
Durability
A truly plastic-free product must last. A glass bottle that breaks after three months is not a meaningful replacement for a plastic one. We assess how long a product realistically replaces single-use plastic before needing replacement.
- Expected product lifespan under normal use
- Repairability and availability of replacement parts
- Warranty and brand support
- User review data on longevity
A Note on Independence
Brands can pay to be listed in our directory and featured in our newsletter. They cannot pay for a higher score. Our editorial team determines all scores independently, and no score has ever been changed as a result of a commercial relationship.
Sponsored products are always clearly labeled with a "Sponsored" tag. Affiliate links are disclosed on every page. If you believe a score is inaccurate, you can contact us at [email protected] with supporting evidence and we will review it.