Everyday habits can impact our health in surprising ways.
“The next time you’re using a tumble dryer, just take a moment to look at the lint catcher,” said materials scientist Joshua Grolman. “Those tiny particles are what we breathe in regularly.”
Microplastics are everywhere—found in items ranging from toys and cosmetics to cleaning supplies and clothing. They’re present in the air we breathe, the food we consume, and the water we drink.
These minute particles can remove larger plastics from our environment, but they also pose risks to our health, potentially leading to issues like infertility, and affecting our digestive and respiratory systems. Research is ongoing to understand the true impact of these particles—smaller than grains of rice—on both our bodies and the environment, highlighting the need to limit exposure.
Grolman offers three practical tips to reduce contact with microplastics in daily life.
Choose Your Clothing Wisely
Synthetic fabrics such as polyester and nylon are significant sources of microplastic pollution. These fibers can shed during manufacturing and washing.
“I personally choose wool, linen, and cotton for my family’s wardrobe because they perform better in terms of comfort, especially in warmer weather,” said Grolman, who is an assistant professor at the Israel Institute of Technology. “Yes, natural materials can be pricier than synthetics, but it’s essential to consider quality over quantity for clothing you wear regularly.”
Natural fibers are biodegradable, meaning they decompose naturally, unlike synthetic options.
Regardless of fabric choice, Grolman recommends hanging clothes to dry, which also extends their lifespan.
Avoid Disposable Plastic Products
Did you know that Americans typically order around 4.5 takeout meals each month? Unfortunately, these takeout containers can leach microplastics into our food, especially if microwaved or reused multiple times.
Grolman opts to avoid disposable items, emphasizing that many are made from low-grade plastics that can break down easily. “I just clean my cooking utensils with a napkin after use and wash them thoroughly once I’m home,” he explained.
He also recommends skipping disposable coffee cups, which often have a plastic lining that may break down when exposed to hot liquids.
Furthermore, Grolman steers clear of canned goods that have thin plastic linings, as these can release microplastics, especially in acidic foods.
Drive Less
Car tires generate a considerable amount of microplastics as they wear down. Grolman prefers to bike to work instead. “People often believe biking exposes them to more pollution than driving, but that’s not necessarily true,” he explained. “When you’re stuck in traffic, your car’s intake is often near the exhaust of the vehicle ahead of you, which isn’t ideal.”
Cycling brings multiple benefits, including increased fitness, reduced fuel consumption, and lower carbon emissions. According to census data, over 705,000 Americans currently commute by bike—though this number is still below the peak in 2014.
While cycling may not always be feasible, Grolman encourages exploring alternatives to driving and keeping car time to a minimum when necessary.
“Whenever I have to drive, I always try to avoid high-traffic areas to limit exposure to those pesky microplastics,” he added.
