1 Let’s take a look at where microplastics are most likely to be found:
1. Bathroom: cosmetics, toothpaste and cleansers
Many products contain ingredients such as “polyethylene”, “acrylates”, or “polypropylene”, often in the form of microbeads used for exfoliation or to give the product a smoother texture.
✔︎ Opt for natural ingredients by checking the INCI (the list of ingredients)
✔︎ Solid cleansers are an excellent alternative.
2. Kitchen: utensils and food packaging
Cling film, containers, bottles, coffee capsules, etc. Some of these release microplastics, especially when in contact with hot or acidic foods.
✔︎ Opt for glass, steel or ceramic
✔︎ Use water filters and limit microwave use with plastic containers
3. Wardrobe: synthetic fibres
Polyester, acrylic and nylon release plastic microfibres during washing.
A single laundry cycle can generate up to 700,000 fibres.
✔︎ Use laundry bags or special filters.
✔︎ Choose clothing made from organic cotton, linen or Tencel™.
4. Household cleaning
Sponges, microfibre cloths, industrial detergents – many of these are sources of microplastics.
✔︎ Opt for biodegradable products and cloths made from cellulose or hemp.
5. In the office
Plastic USB sticks, disposable pens, plastic water bottles. Yes, even indoor environments contribute to the release and inhalation of microplastics.
✔︎ Equip your workspace with reusable and durable accessories
✔︎ Air out indoor spaces frequently, as particles can build up from printers, carpets, plastic furniture and air-conditioning systems
✔︎ Dispose of plastic materials correctly by following recycling guidelines.
2 Genuine, not extreme sustainability
Changing your lifestyle doesn’t mean giving up on comfort or isolating yourself. It means making more informed choices.
Small everyday choices – like using a solid soap bar or a stainless steel or glass water bottle – can reduce exposure to microplastics without making life more complicated.
Every choice requires commitment in order to be sustainable over time; reducing doesn’t mean eliminating everything, but rather preventing and learning to recognise what has an impact – on us, and on the planet.
Useful tools
Check whether your cosmetics and personal care products contain microplastics – Beat the Microbead
Discover which products are free from microplastics – Plastic Soup Foundation
Learn how to protect your health from the threat of microplastics – SIMI Recommendations
