Microplastics: Are They in Our Air?

We’ve heard about microplastics in our water and food, but are we breathing them in too? As startling as it sounds, recent research is shedding light on a new dimension of pollution: airborne microplastics. A study published in ScienceDirect found that microplastics are not just a waterborne threat but are also increasingly present in the air we breathe. The study collected air samples from both urban and indoor settings, revealing a surprising presence of these microscopic particles, even in our own homes. This finding raises an important question: How much do we really know about the air quality within our living spaces? 

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that measure less than 5 millimeters in diameter. These particles can come from a variety of sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic debris, microbeads in personal care products, synthetic fibers from clothing, and more. While initially considered a marine pollution issue, recent studies have shown that microplastics are not confined to oceans and waterways—they are also present in the air we breathe. 

Microplastics make their way into our living spaces without us even realizing it. Some common sources include: 

• Synthetic Clothing: Washing synthetic fabrics like polyester and nylon can release microplastic fibers into the air and water. 

• Household Dust: Everyday items like carpets, curtains, and furniture made from synthetic materials can shed microplastic particles over time. 

• Personal Care Products: Some personal products, such as exfoliating scrubs and toothpastes, contain microbeads that can become airborne during use. 

• Packaging Materials: Plastic packaging and single-use items can degrade, releasing tiny plastic particles. 

While research into the health effects of airborne microplastics is still in its early stages, scientists are increasingly concerned about the potential risks. Some studies suggest that inhaling microplastics could lead to respiratory issues, given their ability to reach deep into the lungs. Additionally, microplastics often carry other pollutants and chemicals that could exacerbate their impact on human health. The long-term effects remain uncertain, but understanding their prevalence in the air is a crucial first step. 

Indoor air can contain higher concentrations of microplastics compared to outdoor environments, primarily due to indoor sources and limited ventilation. Activities such as vacuuming, shaking out clothes, and even simple movements can disturb settled particles, making them airborne once again. As homes become more insulated to conserve energy, these particles may circulate longer within indoor spaces. Considering the time we spend indoors, particularly at home, addressing indoor microplastics becomes essential. 

Reducing airborne microplastics can feel like a daunting task, but there are practical steps you can take to minimize exposure: 

• Use a Microfiber Filter: Washing machines with microfiber filters can capture plastic fibers released during laundry. 

• Choose Natural Fibers: Opt for clothing and textiles made from natural materials, like cotton or wool, instead of synthetic fabrics. 

• Regular Cleaning: Dusting with a damp cloth and vacuuming with a HEPA filter can reduce the amount of microplastics settling on surfaces and in the air. 

• Ventilation: Keeping windows open can help disperse airborne particles and improve indoor air quality. However, make sure to close them when using an air purifier or humidifier. 

• Mind Your Products: Switching to personal care items that do not contain microbeads can reduce plastic particle emissions. 

• Use an Air Purifier: Air purifiers boost circulation and quickly remove airborne contaminants from your space. 

When you hear the word air purifier, you probably think of filtering dust, pollen, and smoke; however, the benefits stretch far beyond that. Levoit’s 3-stage filtration system catches a wide range of pollutants, from pollen and pet hair to microscopic particles as small as 0.3-microns (for reference, a strand of human hair is about 70 microns in diameter). Models with high-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are especially effective at capturing ultra-fine particles. Overall, air purifiers help protect the spaces that matter most to you, whether that’s your kid’s bedroom, the kitchen where you prepare food, your cozy living room, or all the above.  

At Levoit, we believe that everyone deserves a breath of fresh air. We’re committed to staying informed about emerging air quality challenges, including the presence of airborne microplastics, and empowering you with the knowledge and tools to create a fresh home environment.