Laundry and Microplastic Pollution: Sustainable Solutions for Cleaning Clothes

Microplastics are found nearly everywhere—remote mountain tops, deep ocean trenches, and even inside humans. Among the many forms of these tiny pollutants, microfibers are the most common, with synthetic fabrics being the primary culprits. These tiny threads shed from textiles during various stages, especially during washing, and contribute significantly to environmental contamination. Understanding this issue and finding sustainable ways to reduce microfiber pollution is essential in curbing its harmful impact on ecosystems and human health.

The Journey of Microfibers from Laundry to the Environment

Textiles constantly shed microfibers as they are manufactured, worn, and disposed of. However, the most significant shedding occurs during washing. A single laundry load can release millions of these tiny fibers, which eventually make their way into the environment.

Once garments release microfibers in washing machines, these fibers are flushed into wastewater systems, which often lead to treatment plants. Advanced wastewater treatment facilities can remove up to 99% of microfibers, but given the sheer volume released from laundry loads, even treated water contains a substantial amount of fibers.

Microfibers that get filtered out during treatment often end up in sewage sludge, which is processed and commonly used as fertilizer. This practice introduces microfibers into soil, where they can infiltrate ecosystems. Microfibers in rivers, lakes, and oceans can be consumed by aquatic animals, potentially disrupting their biochemistry and reproductive systems. These fibers also absorb environmental contaminants, creating a toxic mixture of chemicals like phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and pesticides. These harmful compounds can then make their way up the food chain, posing risks to both animals and humans.

The Chemical Risks of Microfibers

Microplastics are more than just physical pollutants. They carry chemical additives that can harm both animals and humans. Phthalates and BPA, for instance, are endocrine disruptors that may interfere with hormone systems. Beyond these chemicals, microfibers often contain fabric dyes, anti-wrinkle agents, and flame retardants, which further increase the toxicity. Once in aquatic environments, microfibers attract additional pollutants such as metals and pesticides, intensifying their negative effects. Fish, birds, and other wildlife that ingest these fibers may face health challenges, and through the food web, humans can also be exposed to these contaminated fibers.

How to Make Laundry More Sustainable

Reducing microfiber pollution from laundry requires thoughtful changes to how we wash clothes. Some fabrics shed more fibers than others, with loose, fluffy materials like fleece being the worst offenders. Surprisingly, even natural fibers like cotton and wool can contribute to microfiber pollution when washed, as they too absorb pollutants from the environment. While waiting for the development of more durable fabrics that shed fewer microfibers, several practical solutions can help reduce the impact of laundry on the environment.

1. Wash Clothes Less Frequently

Reducing the frequency of washes lowers the overall release of microfibers. Additionally, washing full loads instead of smaller ones decreases friction between garments, which helps minimize shedding.

2. Use Cold Water

Washing in cold water results in fewer microfibers being released compared to hot water. This method also saves energy, making it a more environmentally friendly option overall.

3. Use Less Detergent

Excessive detergent can cause more microfibers to break off from fabrics. Using the recommended amount, or even slightly less, can help reduce microfiber release.

4. Opt for Front-Loading Washing Machines

Front-loading machines are gentler on fabrics compared to top-loading models. The tumbling action in front loaders produces less friction, leading to fewer microfibers being shed.

5. Line-Dry Clothes

Air drying clothes eliminates the need to run clothes through a dryer, which releases additional microfibers into the air through the vent.

6. Use Microfiber-Capturing Devices

Some innovative products, like the Guppyfriend laundry bag, can trap microfibers during the wash. These woven monofilament bags enclose laundry, collecting microfibers before they escape into wastewater. Studies show that the Guppyfriend can capture around 33% of released microfibers. Another product, the Cora Ball, captures 25-30% of microfibers through its plastic spines, although it can snag on loosely knitted fabrics.

Filtering Wash Water: The Most Effective Solution

External filters that can be retrofitted onto washing machines provide another effective way to reduce microfiber pollution. These filters can capture up to 90% of microfibers from rinse water before it enters the wastewater system. Priced at approximately $150, these filters are an affordable and impactful option for environmentally conscious consumers. However, the filters need regular cleaning, and the collected microfibers should be disposed of as solid waste, not down the drain.

A 2021 study in Ontario, Canada, found that installing filters on washing machines in just 10% of homes significantly reduced the amount of microfibers in treated water. Some manufacturers are now creating washing machines with built-in filters. In response to growing environmental concerns, countries like France and Australia have passed laws requiring washing machines to include microfiber filters. In France, the requirement will take effect in 2025, and Australia has set 2030 as its target.

In the United States, California lawmakers passed a similar regulation in 2023, but Governor Gavin Newsom vetoed the bill, citing concerns over costs for consumers. However, a study by Ocean Conservancy found that installing filters in new machines would raise their price by just $14 to $20. Several states are now considering similar regulations, as public awareness of microfiber pollution grows.

The Future of Sustainable Textiles

While filters on washing machines offer a practical short-term solution, the long-term answer lies in re-engineering textiles that do not shed microfibers. Developing fabrics that minimize shedding, whether through better fiber construction or surface treatments, could drastically reduce microfiber pollution at the source. However, it may take years for such textiles to become mainstream in the clothing industry. In the meantime, adding filters to washing machines presents a highly effective way to tackle microfiber pollution without significant cost to consumers.

Microfiber pollution is a growing environmental issue that stems from everyday activities like laundry. While technological advances in washing machine filters and textile engineering offer hope for reducing this form of pollution, individuals can take immediate steps to mitigate their impact. By adjusting washing habits, using microfiber-capturing devices, and supporting regulations for built-in filters, we can all play a role in tackling the problem of microplastics.

Solutions for Microplastics in Tap Water

While the issue of microplastics in laundry persists, other methods, such as reverse osmosis (RO) filtration, can help reduce microplastic pollution in drinking water. RO systems are designed to filter out even the smallest particles, including microplastics, making them a valuable addition to households concerned about contamination in their water supply.

Whole-home water conditioners, which soften water by removing minerals, can also improve water quality by reducing the need for detergents and other additives that may contribute to microfiber release. By softening the water, these systems enhance the efficiency of washing machines, making them an indirect but useful tool in reducing microfiber pollution.

Source: Yahoo! Life