From solid shampoo to natural fibres: 10 ways to reduce microplastics

Not even the ice in the Arctic has been spared from microplastics. These particles are under 5 millimetres in size and end up in the sea through littering among other things. That way they reach the most hidden corners of the earth. They’re contained in cosmetics, clothing and food. Researchers have even detected microplastics in human organs.

Although the long-term consequences have not yet been fully understood, one thing is clear: microplastics aren’t healthy. So the less there are in our environment, the better.

Here are 10 practical tips on how to reduce your microplastic footprint:

1. Use solid shampoo and soap

Go for solid shampoos and soaps instead of liquid products in plastic bottles. Not only is their packaging plastic-free, but they usually contain fewer harmful ingredients as well – a double win!

Beauty editor Natalie has researched the topic extensively and has handy tips on how to make the switch and which products to go for:

2. Avoid cosmetics containing microplastics

Keep your eyes peeled for ingredients such as polyethylene (PE) or polypropylene (PP) when you’re shopping for beauty products. They’re an indicator for microplastics. The CodeCheck app (available in German) is an easy way to find microplastic-free products.

3. Use natural exfoliants

Many exfoliators contain small plastic particles to get that scrub effect. To avoid them, you can easily make your own scrubs using natural alternatives such as coffee grounds or sugar instead of microplastic particles.

Here’s a recipe for making your own lemon scrub:

4. Wash synthetic clothing less

Fleece and other synthetic fibres release microplastics when you wash them. Although they don’t end up directly in your stomach like food, they do have a lasting impact on the environment and are likely to end up back with you after a few detours. So it’s worth keeping this in mind when you’re doing your laundry. Only wash synthetic garments when it’s really necessary.

Or try out the Guppyfriend wash bag that catches microplastics in your washing machine.

5. Go for natural fibres

Another way to reduce microplastics is to opt for clothes that are free of them from the start. Choose items made of natural fibres such as cotton, linen or wool whenever possible. Ideally, you should also look out for organic and animal-friendly labels. That way you’ll know that no plastic particles are being released when you wash them.

6. Use reusable shopping bags

Avoid single-use plastic bags and use cloth bags or other reusable bags instead.

Our fashion editor Stephanie knows how to go shopping in style while protecting the environment:

7. Drink tap water

Tap water in Switzerland and Germany is of high quality and saves money and plastic bottles. PET bottles containing mineral water can release microplastics into the water and therefore into your body. Like almost everything in the world, tap water isn’t completely free of microplastics. However, put in the right container, it will at least prevent more plastic from getting into it.

A glass bottle is a good way to avoid plastic. Like one from Soulbottles, for example.

8. Avoid disposable tableware

They’re often banned anyway, but still occasionally crop up: disposable cutlery and crockery made of plastic. You’re better off using reusable tableware instead of disposable plastic products for picnics or parties. There are also countless alternatives. For example, made from bamboo.

9. Use plastic-free kitchen sponges

Replace conventional sponges with plastic-free alternatives. Try durable and biodegradable dishwashing brushes made from coconut fibre, for example.

10. Use alternatives to cling film

Sure, it’s very handy. But to reduce microplastics, you should avoid cling film whenever possible. Jars or boxes made of metal, glass or wood are a great alternative. Plastic storage boxes are less advisable, as you run the risk of releasing microplastics into your food and the environment. You can also use [beeswax cloths](/search?q=beeswax cloths). Not only do they look pretty, they’re also reusable and contain no microplastics.

Do you have any other tips on how to reduce microplastics in daily life? Thanks for letting us know in the comments.