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 useful 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.  

  • Many water filtration systems can reduce microplastics in drinking water, but how effective they are depends on the type of filter, its filtration technology and the size of the particles it is designed to remove.

    If reducing microplastic exposure is a priority, look for a filtration system that specifically states that it is designed to reduce or remove microplastics. Filters that use physical filtration, such as some reverse osmosis and membrane systems, can be particularly effective at removing particles.

    You do not necessarily need an expensive whole house filtration system. A suitable under sink or countertop filter can be a practical option for drinking and cooking water, depending on your household, budget and the quality of your existing water supply.

    If you are considering a water filter, it is also important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations for filter replacement and maintenance so that the system continues to work as intended.

    If you want to learn more, check out my free water filter fact sheet.

Bedrooms

  • There is no need to throw away all bedding simply because it contains synthetic fibres. If you are replacing worn or unwanted bedding, consider choosing 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, cosmetics and fragranced products. Some phthalates are known endocrine disrupting chemicals, which means they can interfere with the body's hormone system.

    Because personal care and fragranced products can be used frequently and directly on the body, they are an area I consider when looking at everyday exposure.

    A simple place to start is choosing fragrance free, plant based and natural products where possible, particularly for products you use every day. You can also look for products specifically labelled phthalate free.

    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 I do not think it is necessary to avoid every conventional product or replace everything you already own.

    A practical place to start is with products that are used frequently and directly on the body. When replacing them, I prefer products that are plant based, natural and fragrance free where possible, and I look for products that avoid chemicals of concern such as phthalates.

    You do not need to make every change at once. Gradually switching the products you use most often can be a simple way to reduce exposure over time.

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

  • Fragrance is found in many personal care and household products and can contain a mixture of ingredients that are not individually disclosed on the product label. On ingredient lists, fragrance may simply appear as “fragrance” or “parfum”.

    Some fragrances have historically used phthalates as solvents or fixatives, although the use of phthalates varies between products and manufacturers. This is one reason fragrance can be relevant when taking a precautionary approach to reducing exposure to certain plastic related chemicals.

    This does not mean that all fragranced products are harmful or that you need to eliminate fragrance from your home. Simply choosing fragrance free products where practical can be a simple place to start, particularly for products you use frequently or directly on your body.

Laundry

  • Synthetic fibres can be released from fabrics during normal wear, washing and drying. The amount can vary depending on the fabric, garment and drying conditions. When synthetic clothing is tumble dried, some fibres can be captured in the dryer's lint filter. However, depending on the dryer and how it is vented, some fibres may also be released into the surrounding environment and contribute to household dust.

    Regularly cleaning your lint filter is important, and choosing natural fibre fabrics where practical can help reduce your exposure to synthetic microfibres over time.

    For some simple tips to reduce this exposure, check out my blog article  ‘How Your Clothes Dryer Could Be Adding to Microplastic Exposure In Your Home’.

  • Washing synthetic fabrics can release microfibres into wastewater. The amount can vary depending on factors including the fabric, garment construction, age and washing conditions.

    Synthetic fibres can also become part of household dust through everyday wear and use. Handling and drying laundry may contribute to fibres becoming airborne within the home.

    Choosing natural fabrics for your clothing and household textiles where practical, and washing clothes on shorter, cooler cycles when appropriate, can be a useful starting point for reducing synthetic microfibre release.

    To learn more, check out my blog article ‘5 Simple Ways to Reduce Microfibres in Your Laundry’.

  • There are several potential sources of microplastics and plastic related chemicals in the laundry. Synthetic clothing and household fabrics can release microfibres during washing, drying and everyday use. These fibres can enter wastewater or become part of household dust. Laundry and cleaning products can also contain a range of synthetic ingredients and chemicals, and many are packaged in plastic.

    Switching to simpler formulation, plant based, natural cleaning products where possible, and gradually transitioning clothing and household fabrics to natural fibres such as cotton, linen and wool, can be a practical place to start.

    You do not need to replace everything at once. Consider the products and fabrics you use most often and make changes gradually as they need replacing.

    For more ideas, check out my ‘Microplastics in Air & Dust: Contributors & Cleaning - Where to Start Reducing Your Exposure’ guide.

  • Not necessarily. Synthetic fabrics can be useful for particular purposes, including activewear and clothing where stretch, durability or performance are important. Rather than trying to eliminate synthetic fabrics completely from your home, consider where natural fibres would work well for you and make different choices gradually as clothing needs replacing.

    You can also look beyond clothing. Towels, bedding, blankets, rugs and other household textiles can contain synthetic fibres, so gradually choosing natural fibre alternatives when replacing these items can also help reduce your reliance on synthetic textiles.

General home

  • There are several potential sources of microplastic exposure in the home, including food and drink, household dust, synthetic textiles and some products used on the body.

    You do not need to address everything at once. Start with some small product swaps and habit changes that suit your budget and lifestyle and are sustainable for your home. Gradually making changes in the areas that matter most can help reduce everyday exposure over time.

    For some practical ideas, check out my free ‘Top 10 Simple Swaps or Habit Changes for Reducing Microplastic Exposure’ guide.

  • No. Completely removing plastic from modern life is difficult and is not necessary for a practical precautionary approach. Instead, consider where plastic comes into frequent contact with food or drink, where heat or wear is involved, and where there are practical alternatives. Gradual replacement is often more realistic than replacing everything at once.

    For some simple ideas, check out my free ‘Where to Start Guide - Reducing Microplastic Exposure’.

  • Research into microplastics and human health is still developing. We know that people can be exposed through pathways including ingestion and inhalation, and microplastics have been detected in various parts of the human body, including the lungs, heart, placenta and brain. However, important questions remain about the potential health effects of different particles, exposure levels and long-term exposure.

    Research is also continuing into the potential health impacts of some plastic related chemicals, including BPA, phthalates and PFAS, with some concerning findings emerging.

    I take a precautionary approach by focusing on practical ways to reduce unnecessary exposure without creating fear or suggesting that every source needs to be eliminated.

    To learn more about microplastics, plastic-related chemicals and the research, while also beginning to take practical steps to reduce your exposure, check out my ‘Creating a Healthier Home: A Self-Guided Online Course’.

  • Microplastic exposure can occur through several everyday pathways, including food, drinking water and air. Within the home, household dust, synthetic textiles, food contact materials and other plastic products can all contribute to potential exposure. A practical approach is to look at the different areas of your home and gradually focus on the changes that are most relevant to your household.

    To learn more about cumulative exposure, check out my blog article ‘The Cumulative Effect: Why Small Exposures Add Up’.

  • PFAS, phthalates and bisphenols are different groups of chemicals that have been used in a wide range of products and materials. Some are used in or alongside plastics, while others have many applications beyond plastics.

    They also have different properties, uses and potential health effects. Understanding where these chemicals are commonly encountered can help you make more informed choices about the products you bring into your home.

    Check out these free fact sheets to support reducing exposure in your home.

    PFAS

    Bisphenols

    Phthalates

For families: Kids and Pets

  • Children can have different exposure patterns from adults. For example, young children spend more time close to the floor, frequently touch household objects and may put objects or their hands in their mouths.

    Practical measures such as keeping household dust under control, particularly in playrooms and bedrooms, being mindful of food contact with plastic, and choosing natural fibre fabrics for clothing and bedding where possible, can help reduce unnecessary exposure without trying to eliminate every source.

  • There is no need to throw away all plastic toys. Consider the condition and use of each item, particularly toys that are damaged, deteriorating or frequently placed in the mouth.

    When purchasing replacements, you can consider materials such as wood, metal or natural fibres where they are practical and suitable.

  • Some practical changes include avoiding heating food directly in plastic, using suitable alternatives for hot food and drinks, and considering glass or stainless steel for frequently used containers and bottles.

    You do not need to replace everything at once. Start with the items that are used most often or regularly exposed to heat.

  • Plastic baby bottles are widely used and are required to meet safety standards, but that does not mean they are completely free from potential exposure to microplastics or chemicals that can migrate from plastic. Research has found that polypropylene baby bottles can release microplastics, particularly when exposed to high temperatures during sterilisation and formula preparation.

    It is also worth remembering that BPA free does not mean chemical free. BPA has been removed from many baby bottles and sippy cups, but BPA is only one chemical used in plastics. Other chemicals may be present depending on the material and product, and research is continuing into the potential health effects of different plastic related chemicals.

    If you are looking to reduce unnecessary plastic exposure, glass or stainless steel bottles can be practical alternatives. If you continue using plastic bottles, avoid unnecessary exposure to high temperatures and replace bottles that become scratched, cloudy or damaged.

    You do not need to panic or throw away every plastic bottle you already own. This is an area where choosing a non-plastic alternative when replacing bottles is a practical precautionary step.

  • Pets share our indoor environment and can therefore come into contact with microplastics and household chemicals through food, water, dust, textiles and other products.

    A practical approach might include considering their food and water bowls, food storage, bedding and household dust. As with other areas of the home, the goal is to reduce unnecessary exposure rather than eliminate every possible source.

  • Stainless steel and suitable ceramic bowls can be practical alternatives to plastic for food and water, particularly where bowls are frequently exposed to heat or sunlight.

    Plastic can deteriorate over time with repeated use and exposure to heat, sunlight and wear. If a plastic bowl is in good condition and suitable for your pet, there is no need to automatically discard it.

    When replacing a bowl, choosing stainless steel or suitable ceramic can reduce direct contact between your pet's food or water and plastic.