Why clothes are a microplastics source
About two thirds of the world's clothing fiber is synthetic, mostly polyester. These fabrics are made of the same polymers as plastic bottles. As they rub during wear, washing and drying, short fibers break off. Each fiber is tiny, but there are a great many of them.
Strong An IUCN analysis estimated that washing synthetic textiles accounts for about 35% of primary microplastics entering the ocean, more than any other source. Wastewater treatment plants catch many fibers, but those end up in sewage sludge, which is often spread on farmland.
Fibers in the air you breathe
Emerging Clothing also sheds while you wear it, and carpets, sofas, curtains and bedding shed too. Studies of indoor air and household dust consistently find synthetic fibers, often at higher levels than outdoors. Since most people spend about 90% of their time indoors, this is a direct route into the lungs. Environmental groups have urged regulators to pay more attention to textiles for this reason.
How to cut shedding in the laundry
- Wash less often. Air out clothes that are not dirty. This is the easiest and cheapest step.
- Use cold water and short cycles. Heat and long cycles increase fiber loss.
- Wash full loads. Less space means less friction between garments.
- Use liquid detergent rather than powder, which can act as an abrasive.
- Skip the tumble dryer when you can, or clean the lint filter every load and put lint in the trash.
- Catch fibers. Use a filter bag for synthetics, a fiber-catching laundry ball, or an external filter on the washer outlet.
Washing machine filters
Emerging External filters that fit on a washer's drain hose have captured up to about 89–90% of microfibers in lab and field tests. Some manufacturers now offer built-in or add-on filters. Laundry balls and filter bags catch less, roughly a quarter to a third in some tests, but cost little.
France passed a law in 2020 requiring filters on new washing machines from 2025, though industry groups report implementation has been delayed. California's legislature passed a similar bill for 2029, but the governor vetoed it in 2023. Other jurisdictions, including Ontario and the UK, have considered filter bills.
See filter types in our product guide.
Choosing clothes
- Natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wool, hemp and silk do not shed plastic. Check labels for blends, which still contain synthetics.
- Avoid fleece for items washed frequently. It is among the heaviest shedders.
- Buy fewer, better-made clothes. Fast fashion is mostly polyester and sheds heavily.
- Recycled polyester keeps bottles out of landfill but sheds the same as new polyester.
Around the house
- Vacuum with a HEPA-filter vacuum at least weekly.
- Dust with a damp cloth instead of a dry duster, which puts fibers back in the air.
- Consider a HEPA air purifier in the bedroom.
- When replacing rugs and upholstery, consider wool, cotton or jute.
Frequently asked questions
Which fabrics shed the most microplastics?
Fleece and other brushed polyester fabrics, acrylic knits and loosely woven synthetics shed the most. Tightly woven, high-quality synthetic fabrics shed less. Natural fibers such as cotton, linen, wool, hemp and silk shed natural fibers, not plastic.
Do front-loading washers release fewer microfibers?
Studies suggest top-loading machines with a central agitator release more fibers than front-loaders, because of the extra friction. A cold, short, full-load cycle also reduces shedding.
Should I throw away my synthetic clothes?
No. Shedding is highest when clothes are new and drops after several washes, so keeping and caring for what you own is better than replacing it. When you buy new, consider natural fibers for items worn next to the skin or washed often.