Microplastics are everywhere. They are tiny plastic particles found in food, water, beauty products, and even the air. Over time, these plastics build up in our bodies and can harm our health. But the good news? You can avoid them by choosing better products.
In this article, we’ll uncover common products that contain microplastics and share safer alternatives. Plus, we’ll recommend top products that can help you reduce your exposure.
Table of Contents
What Are Microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic pieces, usually smaller than 5mm. They come from larger plastic items that break down over time. Some microplastics are intentionally added to products like cosmetics, toothpaste, and detergents. Others come from synthetic clothes, plastic packaging, and even bottled water.
Research suggests that microplastics can enter our bloodstream, tissues, and organs. Scientists are still studying their full impact, but early findings link them to inflammation, hormone disruption, and even potential long-term health risks.
Everyday Products That Contain Microplastics (And Better Alternatives):
1. Bottled Water
Plastic water bottles contain high levels of microplastics. These tiny particles leach into the water, especially when bottles are exposed to heat or stored for long periods. A study found that bottled water contains nearly twice as many microplastics as tap water, with common contaminants like polypropylene, nylon, and polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
Safer Alternative: Stainless Steel or Glass Bottles
- Hydro Flask Stainless Steel Water Bottle – This bottle is vacuum-insulated, keeping drinks hot for up to 12 hours and cold for 24 hours. Made of food-grade stainless steel, it’s durable, BPA-free, and resistant to bacterial buildup.
- Lifefactory Glass Water Bottle – Made with high-quality glass and a silicone sleeve for extra grip, this bottle offers a completely plastic-free way to hydrate while ensuring no harmful chemicals leach into your drink.
2. Tea Bags
Many tea bags are made with plastic fibers to reinforce their structure. When steeped in hot water, these plastic components break down and release billions of microplastic particles into your cup. Silken pyramid tea bags are particularly concerning, as they contain nylon or polyethylene terephthalate (PET), which degrade at high temperatures.
Safer Alternative: Loose-Leaf Tea and Reusable Infusers
- Finum Reusable Stainless Steel Tea Infuser – This fine-mesh stainless steel infuser allows you to brew loose-leaf tea without releasing plastic particles. It is durable, easy to clean, and doesn’t alter the flavor of your tea.
- Davidson’s Organic Loose Leaf Tea – A high-quality organic tea option that is free from plastic packaging, offering a natural, chemical-free brew.
3. Cosmetics and Skincare Products
Many beauty products contain microbeads, a type of microplastic used for exfoliation in face scrubs, toothpaste, and body washes. These microbeads do not dissolve in water and are too small for wastewater treatment plants to filter out, leading to massive pollution in oceans and rivers.
Safer Alternative: Natural and Microplastic-Free Skincare
- Acure Brightening Facial Scrub – Instead of plastic microbeads, this scrub uses natural exfoliants like sea kelp and French green clay to gently cleanse and brighten skin without harmful pollutants.
- Dr. Bronner’s Organic Sugar Soap – Made with organic sugar and essential oils, this soap provides a deep yet gentle cleanse while being completely biodegradable and microplastic-free.
4. Clothing Made from Synthetic Fabrics
Clothing made from polyester, nylon, and acrylic sheds microplastics every time they are washed. These particles end up in wastewater, eventually polluting rivers and oceans. A single wash can release up to 700,000 microplastic fibers!
Safer Alternative: Natural Fiber Clothing
- Pact Organic Cotton T-Shirts – Made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, these soft and breathable t-shirts offer a sustainable and microplastic-free clothing option.
- Bamboo Underwear by Boody – Crafted from bamboo viscose, this underwear is ultra-soft, moisture-wicking, and completely free from synthetic microplastic-shedding materials.
5. Plastic Food Containers
Plastic food storage containers can leach microplastics into food, especially when heated in the microwave or dishwasher. The breakdown of plastic polymers releases bisphenol A (BPA), phthalates, and other endocrine disruptors.
Safer Alternative: Glass or Stainless Steel Storage
- Pyrex Glass Food Storage Set – These airtight, leak-proof containers are microwave, oven, and dishwasher-safe, providing a non-toxic, BPA-free way to store food.
- U Konserve Stainless Steel Food Containers – A lightweight, durable, and plastic-free alternative for meal prep and food storage.
6. Table Salt
Many brands of table salt contain microplastics due to ocean contamination. Since salt is a staple in cooking, it’s important to choose a microplastic-free option.
Safer Alternative: Unrefined Natural Salt
- Redmond Real Salt – Ancient Sea Salt – This unrefined, mineral-rich salt is harvested from ancient seabeds, making it free from microplastics and environmental pollutants.
- Celtic Sea Salt – Fine Ground – A natural, hand-harvested salt that retains essential minerals and is tested to be free from modern contaminants, including microplastics.
7. Wet Wipes and Disposable Cleaning Cloths
Many disposable wipes contain polypropylene and polyester fibers, which break down into microplastics when disposed of. Even “flushable” wipes do not decompose completely, leading to blockages and environmental pollution.
Safer Alternative: Reusable and Biodegradable Wipes
- Bamboo Reusable Paper Towels – Washable and reusable up to 100 times, these towels replace single-use paper products.
- Cheeky Panda Biodegradable Bamboo Wipes – Made from sustainable bamboo, these wipes are completely biodegradable and plastic-free.
8. Cutting Boards
Plastic cutting boards can release tiny plastic particles when cut or scratched.
Safer Alternative: Bamboo or Wooden Cutting Boards
- Greener Chef Bamboo Cutting Board – Made from organic bamboo, this board is naturally antimicrobial, durable, and completely free from synthetic materials.
- John Boos Maple Wood Cutting Board – A high-quality, sustainable alternative that resists deep knife grooves and is easy to maintain with mineral oil.
9. Chewing Gum
Most commercial gum brands contain polyethylene and polyvinyl acetate, which are the same plastics found in shopping bags and glue. These materials do not biodegrade and contribute to microplastic pollution.
Safer Alternative: Natural Chewing Gum
- Simply Gum All-Natural Chewing Gum – Made with natural chicle, this gum is plastic-free and biodegradable.
- PUR Gum Aspartame-Free Chewing Gum – A cleaner, non-toxic alternative that doesn’t contain synthetic plastics.
Best Water Filters for Removing Microplastics
Since microplastics are commonly found in tap and bottled water, investing in a high-quality water filter can significantly reduce your exposure.
Best Water Filtration Systems
- Berkey Water Filter System – This gravity-fed water filter removes microplastics, heavy metals, and harmful chemicals while maintaining essential minerals.
- ZeroWater 5-Stage Water Filter Pitcher – A budget-friendly option with a multi-stage filtration system that removes nearly all dissolved solids, including microplastics.
- Express Water Reverse Osmosis System – A high-efficiency RO filtration system that eliminates over 99% of contaminants, including microplastics, chlorine, and lead.
Why These Changes Matter
Microplastics are a growing threat. They harm marine life, disrupt ecosystems, and can even enter our food chain. By making small changes at home, we can collectively make a big difference.
Every time you use a microfiber-catching bag, drink from a reusable bottle, or choose natural fibers, you’re helping to reduce microplastic pollution. These actions add up. Together, we can protect our planet for future generations.
FAQs
1. Are microplastics harmful to human health?
Yes, studies suggest that microplastics can enter the bloodstream, tissues, and organs. They have been linked to inflammation, hormone disruption, and potential long-term health risks.
2. Can microplastics be filtered out of drinking water?
Yes, high-quality water filters like activated carbon filters and reverse osmosis systems can effectively remove microplastics from tap water.
3. How can I reduce my microplastic exposure?
You can reduce exposure by avoiding single-use plastics, choosing natural fiber clothing, using stainless steel or glass food containers, and opting for microplastic-free personal care products.
4. Do all plastic products release microplastics?
Over time, most plastic products degrade and release microplastics, especially when exposed to heat, friction, or UV light.
5. Is chewing gum really made of plastic?
Yes, most conventional chewing gums contain plastic-based ingredients like polyethylene and polyvinyl acetate. Switching to natural gums can help avoid this exposure.
Final Thoughts
Microplastics are everywhere, but you don’t have to accept them in your life. By making simple swaps, you can reduce your exposure and protect your health.
Choosing stainless steel water bottles, organic clothing, and microplastic-free skincare can make a big difference. Plus, investing in good water filters and glass food containers can further reduce your risk.
Want to take action today? Check out these products and start making cleaner, healthier choices.
Let’s take action today. Every small step counts. Together, we can create a cleaner, healthier world.
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