Design/methodology/approach PPTFE was first prepared by using citric acid (CA) as an efficient pore-making agent. Subsequently, PVA and chitosan solution was introduced into the pores and experienced a freezing-thawing process, forming PVA-based gels inside the pores. Then, the PPTFE/PVA composite was impregnated with polyethylene glycol 200 (PEG200), yielding an oil-impregnated PPTFE/PVA/PEG200 composite. Findings It was found that the oil-impregnated PPTFE/PVA/PEG200 composite exhibited advanced tribological properties than neat PTFE with reductions of 53% and 70% in coefficient of friction and wear rate, respectively. Originality/value This study shows an efficient strategy to regulate the tribological property of PTFE using a PVA-based oil-containing gel. Peer review The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-11-2024-0432/