5 Simple Ways to Minimize Microplastic Exposure

From the food we eat to the water we drink—even the air we breathe—microplastics are everywhere. They’ve been found in human blood and deep in the Mariana Trench. While scientists are still researching their potential impact on human health, we’re all for playing it as safe as possible, which means reducing our exposure as much as possible. It doesn’t have to be complicated. Here are a few simple ways to start: 

1. Cut Single-Use Plastics to Limit Microplastic Exposure

Avoiding single-use plastics is an easy way to help fight plastic pollution as well as cut down on the risk of exposure to potentially toxic chemicals. Common items like plastic water bottles, takeout packaging, and single-use bags can release microplastic particles that can get into your food and drink. When you start to use reusable options, you help reduce these risks while also making better choices for the planet. 

Some easy swaps:

• Get yourself a quality, reusable stainless steel water bottle that you can take everywhere

• Bring reusable cloth bags and totes with you when you go shopping

• Say no thank you to single-use cutlery when you order for takeout or delivery

2. Use Glass, Stainless Steel, or Ceramic for Food Storage

Plastic storage containers may expose you to harmful chemicals like BPA as well as microplastics. Switch to glass or ceramic storage to help protect your health while you fight plastic pollution. Not only can they help lower microplastic exposure, they tend to last much longer than plastic containers—saving you money in the long run.  

3. Don’t Heat Food in Plastic Containers

Heating food in plastic containers can allow potentially harmful materials like BPA and microplastic particles to get into your food. Even if a plastic container is marked as safe for the microwave, high heat can still break it down. 

To be safe, instead:

• Remove takeout food from its delivery container before reheating.

• Use glass or ceramic dishes for reheating and cooking.

• Avoid using plastic plates, bowls, or wraps when heating anything.

4. Use Home Filtration to Lower Risk in Drinking Water

Drinking water—bottled or tap—has been known to carry microplastics, heavy metals, and other unwanted contaminants. While public water systems are regulated, certain particles may still make their way through.

Installing a home water filter—especially systems that use reverse osmosis or activated carbon—may help reduce the presence of microplastics. Choosing filtered tap water over bottled water can also lower plastic waste and reduce your overall exposure to plastics, since bottled water has been found to contain even higher levels of microplastics.

5. Keep Clothing and Textiles Natural

Opting for clothing made from natural fibers like cotton, wool, and hemp helps lower microplastic shedding since synthetic materials like polyester are often made of plastic. When you wash clothes made from things like polyester, microfibers break off and can end up in the water system, adding to pollution. 

These easy swaps can reduce exposure:

• Change out your polyester sheets for organic cotton or wool bedding.

• Replace synthetic rugs with ones made of hemp or natural fibers.

• Try to choose wool or silk clothing over synthetics.

Cleaning Habits that Reduce Microplastic Buildup

Every day cleaning routines can also contribute to microplastic pollution, especially when using products packaged in plastic or containing synthetic ingredients that may break down over time.

One simple way to reduce this impact is by switching to plastic-free cleaning products made with safer, cleaner ingredients. Blueland offers a range of cleaning products designed for a safer home—everything from multi-surface sprays to dishwashing tablets.

You can also start washing your clothes in cold water. Heating synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon can accelerate fiber breakdown, leading to increased microfiber shedding during laundry cycles. Cold water washes are gentler on textiles and can significantly reduce the release of microplastics. As a bonus, they also help conserve energy and extend the life of your clothes, making cold water both an eco-friendly and fabric-friendly choice.