The Blueland Guide to Microplastic-Free Rugs

When you hear the word microplastics, what image comes to mind? Is it bits of plastic wrappers and single-use water bottles floating in our oceans? Maybe fragments of plastic jugs sitting in landfills? We may not want to admit it, but when microplastics feel far away, they’re to ignore. But the truth is, some of the most concerning sources of microplastics might be right under your feet—your carpets and rugs.

Growing research shows that synthetic rugs and carpets are a major source of microplastic pollution in our homes, and if you have babies or toddlers crawling around on the floor, the issue becomes that much more urgent. In fact, studies suggest that infants could be ingesting 10 to 20 times more microplastics than adults! 

That’s why we’re breaking down everything you need to know about the issue at hand (and foot) as well as sharing our favorite microplastic-free rug picks for a safer and healthier home. 

What Are Microplastics (and Why Are They Harmful)?

What Exactly Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny fragments of plastic—usually smaller than 5 millimeters—that come from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and packaging materials. They can also come from synthetic textiles, personal care products, and industrial processes. Over time, exposure to sunlight, heat, and physical wear causes these plastics to fragment into smaller pieces.

Unlike natural materials, plastic doesn’t decompose completely—it just keeps breaking down into tinier and tinier pieces that make their way into our water systems, pollute our soil, and even linger in the air we breathe. 

A growing amount of microplastics are generated indoors from the plastic materials we fill our homes with. Heat, sunlight, and everyday friction or mechanical wear can cause plastic-based materials—like rugs and carpets—to shed as airborne microplastics; and once they’re in the air, there’s little stopping them from entering our lungs—or settling into the dust we ingest.

Are Microplastics Harmful to Your Health?

The science is still developing, but what we know so far is concerning. While larger microplastic particles may pass through the body, smaller ones—known as nanoplastics—can potentially penetrate tissues and even cells.

Preliminary studies suggest that these particles could be linked to inflammation, hormonal disruption, oxidative stress, and gut microbiome disruption. 

And while scientists are still determining the long-term health effects, one major challenge is the lack of plastic-free control groups—microplastics are now so widespread that they’re nearly impossible to avoid.

Babies and Children are Especially Vulnerable

Not only do children spend more time on the floor, they also breathe faster and more frequently than adults, meaning they’re potentially inhaling even more carpet-borne and airborne microplastics. 

A 2021 study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that indoor air and household dust were significant sources of microplastic exposure, especially for young children. In fact, it’s estimated that up to 50% of our microplastic exposure comes from the air we breathe while inside our own homes. 

Why Do Synthetic Rugs Shed Microplastics?

Synthetic Fibers = Plastic

Most conventional rugs are made with synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, or polypropylene—which are essentially just different types of plastic. Yes, they’re often affordable, but they’re priced the way they are because they’re made with materials that are cheap to produce but costly to the environment and the health of your household. They shed tiny plastic particles into the air every time you vacuum or even just walk across them, as well as every time your child crawls on them. 

Even worse? Stain-resistant rugs (the ones that are ironically often marketed as kid-friendly or made for families) are typically treated with chemicals that help prevent dirt and liquid from getting into fibers. These treatments range from oil and water-repellent fluorochemicals to polyester fiber coating—all of which can shed back onto whatever and whoever comes in contact. 

Our Favorite Microplastic-Free Rug Picks

Whether you have a little one on the way or you’re simply looking for ways to make your household healthier for your family, finding a microplastic-free carpet or rug is easier (and more affordable) than you might think! 

Safe Fibers to Look For

If you're looking to reduce microplastics in your home, you always want to start by looking for natural fibers over synthetics. Opt for 100% cotton, wool, hemp, jute—ideally undyed—or a blend of these. Not only do they reduce microplastic exposure, they’re also better for the planet since they’re typically biodegradable and renewable. 

Tip: Aim for undyed or minimally processed fibers when possible to further reduce chemical exposure and improve indoor air quality.

Avoid synthetic materials like nylon, polyester, acrylic, or viscose. In addition to being made from plastic, they often contain harmful chemicals like VOCs and flame retardants, which can reduce indoor air quality in addition to spreading microplastics. 

Brands We Love

Hook & Loom

Hook & Loom is one of our go-to brands for sustainable, plastic-free rugs. Their entire collection of undyed, all-natural fiber rugs are handmade, beautiful, and completely free of synthetic materials.

“Given how much time my kids spend playing on the floor, I knew a plastic-free rug was an important investment. I love that my Hook & Loom rug is safe for my family but still just as beautiful in any room of my home!” - Sarah Paiji Yoo, Co-Founder & CEO of Blueland 

Quince

As firm believers in making the healthier choice the easiest one to make, we love that Quince has a variety of plastic-free rugs at more affordable prices, but keep in mind that not all of Quince’s rugs are 100% natural materials. Our top picks are the 100% wool Hudson Wool Rug or Lennox Hand-Looomed Wool Rug—just be sure to double check the material details listed on each page of their website! 

Jenni Kayne

For the serious investment piece, Jenni Kayne offers luxury handmade rugs from a variety of high-quality natural materials. Our picks: the 100% silk Bristol Rug, the 100% jute Arrowhead Jute Rug or Hudson Jute Rug, and the 100% linen Bowery Rug. Double check Jenni Kayne’s rugs as well! While most are 100% natural materials, a few of their pieces include 10% or less polyester (a plastic-based synthetic). 

Shop Small on Etsy

Never underestimate the power of small makers! Etsy is a great place to discover handwoven rugs made from natural, upcycled, or organic fibers. Use search terms like: “100% wool rug,” “natural jute runner,” or “handwoven cotton rug” to find options, and always read the product descriptions carefully to double check the rug’s material makeup! Consider messaging the seller directly if you’re unsure about the materials.

Healthier from the Ground Up

Unfortunately, microplastics are everywhere—from the water we drink to the air we breathe—but when it comes to your own home, there are still simple steps you can take to reduce your family’s exposure. Switching to plastic-free rugs is a truly meaningful to make your space safer for everyone from the ground up.

Source:

Occurrence of Polyethylene Terephthalate and Polycarbonate Microplastics in Infant and Adult Feces

Microplastics in our homes - Our carpets' hidden secret

Quantification and exposure assessment of microplastics in Australian indoor house dust