What are microplastics and how do they affect us?

Microplastics are plastic fragments smaller than 5 millimetres. They are released from synthetic fabrics, tyres, packaging, and some cosmetic products. These particles pass through filtration systems and end up in oceans, rivers, and soil, where they are consumed by animals and ultimately by humans too. Research indicates that microplastics may carry harmful chemicals and could contribute to inflammation or hormone disruption in the body.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are small plastic fragments, less than 5 mm in size.

Primary microplastics: Intentionally manufactured, such as microbeads in cosmetics.

Secondary microplastics: Created from the breakdown of larger plastic waste.

Where do microplastics come from?

Below are some of the most common sources for microplastics.

Clothing and textiles – Synthetic fibres from polyester, nylon, and acrylic release plastic microfibres with every wash. Synthetic fibres are man-made materials produced from oil-based raw ingredients, essentially, a form of plastic. Fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic are commonly used in clothing because they are durable, affordable, and quick-drying. However, since they are fundamentally plastic that has been melted down and spun into fine threads, they shed tiny plastic particles (microplastics) whenever garments are washed. These particles travel with the wastewater and eventually end up in the environment.

Tyre abrasion – Friction between tyres and road surfaces causes microscopic plastic particles to shed while driving. Rainwater carries these particles into drainage systems, rivers, and eventually the sea.

Plastic packaging – With exposure to sunlight, weather, and repeated use, plastic packaging gradually degrades into small fragments, creating secondary microplastics that spread into rivers, soil, and oceans.

Cosmetics – Certain products, such as exfoliating scrubs, toothpaste, and shower gels, may include microbeads; small plastic particles that are rinsed away during use and eventually enter waterways and seas.

Microplastics effects on humans

Emerging research suggests that microplastics can carry potentially toxic substances and may be linked to health concerns such as inflammation or hormonal disruption. These particles have been found in food, drinking water, and even the air we breathe, though the full extent of their impact on human health is still being studied.

Microplastics in the ocean

Microplastics in the ocean are frequently consumed by sea life, including plankton, shellfish, and fish. This can occur either through direct ingestion or while filtering water for nutrients. Once inside marine organisms, these particles may impact health, growth, and reproduction. Microplastics also interfere with food chains, disturbing the balance of marine ecosystems. Eventually, they travel up the food chain and can reach humans, particularly through the consumption of seafood..

Are microplastics harmful?

Microplastics are known to harm marine ecosystems and may pose long-term risks to human health. While scientific understanding is still developing, studies indicate that these particles can disrupt marine life and carry pollutants that could affect biological systems.

Materials and microplastics - what you should know

At Mini Rodini, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We carefully select materials that are safer for children, better for the planet, and designed to reduce microplastic pollution. While many of our garments are made from natural fibres or recycled materials, different fabrics behave differently in the washing machine and some can shed tiny microplastics into waterways and oceans.

🌱 Materials that do not release microplastics

• Cotton

• TENCEL™ Lyocell

• Wool

• Linen

• Hemp

All natural fibres, whether plant-based or animal-based, are free from plastic. If fibres shed during washing, they biodegrade naturally and do not contribute to microplastic pollution. Choosing these materials is one of the easiest ways to avoid microplastics in your daily life.

📌 Materials that can release microplastics

• Polyester and recycled polyester

• Econyl® (regenerated nylon)

• Nylon, acrylic, elastane (spandex), polyamide, and other synthetic fibres

While recycled synthetic fabrics like recycled polyester are a more sustainable choice than virgin plastics, they still release microplastics with each wash. These tiny particles can travel into rivers and seas, where they harm marine life and disrupt ecosystems.

Tips to reduce microfibre release:

• Whenever possible, choose natural fibres such as cotton, wool, or TENCEL™ Lyocell, they do not shed microplastics and will biodegrade naturally.

• Wash synthetic garments less frequently.

• Use a washing bag, like Guppyfriend, to capture microfibres before they enter the water system.

Read more about Guppyfriend here

By washing more thoughtfully and choosing natural fibres whenever possible, you can significantly reduce microplastic pollution without sacrificing quality, durability, or style.

Examples of products that may release microplastics

Garments containing synthetic materials, such as polyester or nylon, can shed microfibres during washing or regular wear. Common examples include:

• Fleece clothing

• Swimwear

• Outerwear

At Mini Rodini, these are also examples of product categories where synthetic fibres are sometimes used, but always as GRS-certified recycled polyester or recycled nylon. This approach reduces our reliance on virgin plastics and supports a more circular, responsible textile industry.

Learn more about our materials and products

FAQ – Quick Answers about microplastics

What are microplastics? Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm. They’re found in the environment when larger plastic items break down or shed particles.

Where do microplastics come from? They mainly come from synthetic clothing, tyre wear, plastic packaging, and some personal care products.

Which materials release microplastics? Synthetic fibres like recycled polyester and Econyl® can release microfibers when clothes are washed or worn.

How to avoid microplastics? Choose garments made from natural materials, wash synthetics less often, and use a Guppyfriend laundry bag to catch microfibers before entering wastewater systems.

Want to learn more? Read more about our sustainability work here.