Frequently Asked Questions

Practical answers to common questions about microplastics, plastic related chemicals and creating a healthier home.

Kitchen

  • Some of the most practical changes involve reducing contact between plastic and food, particularly when food is heated or stored for long periods. You can start by using glass or ceramic for reheating, choosing non plastic options for hot food storage and gradually replacing frequently used plastic items as they wear out.

    You might find my blog article on ‘5 Simple Ways I’m Reducing Microplastic Exposure in My Kitchen’ helpful.

  • Heating food in plastic can increase the release of microplastics and other substances from some plastic products. The amount released can depend on factors including the type of plastic, temperature, duration and condition of the container.

    As a precautionary approach, I recommend transferring food to a suitable glass or ceramic container before heating, particularly in a microwave or oven.

    If you want to learn more, check out my blog article ‘What Happens When You Heat Food in Plastic?’.

  • Glass can be a better alternative to plastic for food storage because it avoids direct contact between food and plastic. It is particularly useful for storing and reheating hot food. However, there is no need to replace every plastic container immediately. Prioritise glass for hot food and heating food in the microwave and gradually switch out your oldest plastic containers for glass as they show signs of deteriorating.  

Bedrooms

  • There is no need to throw away all bedding simply because it contains synthetic fibres. If you are replacing worn or unwanted bedding, choose natural fibres such as cotton, linen or wool.

    Your existing bedding can remain useful while you gradually make different choices when replacements are needed.

  • Regular vacuuming and damp dusting are practical ways to remove accumulated dust. Ventilating the room by regularly opening windows can also improve air exchange.

    It can also be useful to consider the textiles and furnishings in the room over time, particularly synthetic carpets, bedding and other fabrics that shed synthetic fibres through use.

    You might enjoy my blog article ‘Your Bedroom Reset: Creating a Healthier Space’ to learn more.

  • Yes. Microplastics and synthetic fibres can become part of household dust. Textiles, clothing, carpets, furnishings and other synthetic materials can all contribute fibres to the indoor environment.

    Regular vacuuming, damp dusting and ventilation can help manage household dust, while gradually choosing natural fibre textiles where practical.

    You might find my blog article on ‘Decluttering for Cleaner Air: The Hidden Health Benefit’ useful.

  • Yes. Synthetic textiles such as polyester, nylon and acrylic can shed small fibres through everyday wear and washing. Some of these fibres can become part of household dust, while others can enter wastewater during laundering.

    You do not need to stop wearing synthetic clothing. When replacing items, consider whether natural fibres such as cotton, linen or wool would work for that particular use.

Bathroom

  • Phthalates are a group of chemicals used in a range of products, including some plastics and fragranced products. Certain phthalates have been associated with endocrine disruption and other potential health effects.

    Because some personal care and fragranced products are used frequently and directly on the body, they can be a worthwhile place to start in reducing exposure. Start by choosing fragrance-free when possible and look for plant-based, natural products when available.

    For more information on phthalates, check out my free fact sheet here.

  • Personal care products can contribute to everyday exposure to a range of chemicals. The ingredients and potential exposure vary considerably between products, so it is not useful to assume that every conventional product presents the same concern.

    A practical approach is to look at products with simpler formulations and generally plant-based, natural ingredients. Also consider product exclusions such as ‘phthalate-free’.

    You might be interested in my ‘Microplastics in the Bathroom: Where to Start Reducing Your Exposure’ guide.

  • Fragrance can be found in many personal care and household products and may involve a mixture of ingredients that are not individually listed on the label as it is often just listed as ‘fragrance’ or ‘parfum’. Phthalates are a group of concerning chemicals sometimes added to plastics and are often added to fragrance to make it last longer.  

    This does not mean that all fragranced products are harmful or that fragrance needs to be eliminated from your home but a useful starting point can be to choose fragrance-free when possible.