PFL Methodology
Every product on PlasticFreeLab is scored against the same five-dimension rubric. The rubric is public, versioned like software, and updated when better evidence makes our previous version look incomplete.
Current version
v1.2, in force since April 2026. Adds a PFAS panel using SGS Method 5021A, expands the durability scoring window from 12 to 24 months, and revises the value calculation to account for warranty terms.
Why a public methodology
If we can't show how we picked, the picks aren't worth much. Every score on this site is a number that any reader can replicate from the same evidence. We publish the dimensions, the weights, the sub-tests, and the lab partners. We disclose what we did not test, and why.
Methodology drift is the most common failure mode in product review writing. Our defense against it is the version number. When we change the rubric, we ship a new version, archive the old one, and re-score the affected posts. Readers see exactly what changed.
Change log
- v1.2 (April 2026): Added PFAS panel using SGS Method 5021A. Expanded durability window 12→24 months. Revised value formula to weight warranty terms.
- v1.1 (January 2026): Initial public release. Five-dimension rubric, five reviewer roles, dispute policy.
Dispute resolution
If a brand believes our scoring is wrong, they can submit a dispute with documentation. We re-test on our bench, not theirs. If their data contradicts ours, we publish both. We do not edit live scores under threat of legal action; we update them when better evidence arrives.