A microfiber is a tiny strand of material shed from fabric. Nearly 70% of textiles, including clothing, are now made from synthetic fibers (i.e. plastic), which shed microfibers and chemical additives into the air, water, and our bodies.
Exposure Pathways
Inhalation
Microfibers are shed from carpets, upholstery, blankets and clothing, and accumulate in the air and dust.
Ingestion
Microfibers are present in water and food. They accumulate in soil and are taken up by plants and crops – and us
Dermal Contact
Our skin absorbs chemicals used in textile treatments (water-proofing, anti-stain chemicals, etc).
Common Chemicals
Microfibers may contain:
- PFAS (“forever chemicals”)
- Dyes and pigments
- Flame retardants
- Pesticides
- Persistent organic pollutants (POPs)
Health Implications
Microfibers may pose unique risks because their shape and large surface area allow them to carry chemicals on their surface. Although research on microfibers is still developing, studies suggest possible links to multiple health concerns, including:
- Dementia-related pathways
- Reproductive challenges/infertility
- Respiratory disease
- Cardiovascular disease
- Digestive Inflammation
- Premature birth
Who is at risk?
Everyone is exposed to microfibers.
Workers in textile industries experience higher rates of respiratory disease, suggesting that long-term inhalation of microfibers may contribute to reduced lung function.
Should I Be Worried?
- Microfibers are extremely difficult to remove from the environment and from bodies.
- Plastic production – and in turn microplastic pollution– is increasing exponentially.
- Solutions that reduce microfiber pollution benefit everyone.
Solutions
Ways to Reduce Exposure
- Buy cotton or wool textiles when possible, especially for infants.
- Purchase items secondhand.
- Install HEPA air filters at home.
- Look for “PFAS-free” or “PFC-free” waterproofing labels.
- Air dry clothes when possible or use heat pump dryers.
- Install filters for your washer and dryer.
- Look for OEKO-TEX Standard 100, bluesign, or GOTS certifications.
- Vacuum and dust regularly in indoor spaces.
How to Make Systems Change
Microfiber pollution can be reduced when communities, institutions, and policymakers act together – all are needed.
Collective Voice
Use your power as a voter, consumer, employee, and community member to push for healthier, safer spaces and systems
Community Action
Reducing the synthetic textiles in your home and wardrobe, as well as schools and workplaces (such as carpets and curtains).
Political Advocacy
Support laws that ban harmful chemicals, require extended producer responsibility, safer textiles, and washing ‑machine filters.
Environmental Implications
Microfibers harm ecosystems. These tiny fibers accumulate in fish, shellfish, and marine mammals where they disrupt feeding, growth and reproduction. Synthetic microfibers are more toxic than other microplastic particles, and can accumulate in the digestive system.