Does washing synthetic clothes release microplastic fibers?
Yes. A 2025 study developed a new method to measure microplastic fibers released during laundry and confirmed synthetic fabrics shed large amounts.
What's actually in it
Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic shed tiny plastic fibers every time you wash them. These fibers flow into wastewater, enter rivers and oceans, and cycle back into drinking water and food. A single load of laundry can release hundreds of thousands of fibers.
What the research says
A 2025 study in Sci Rep developed a new method to study microplastic fiber release during washing. The results confirmed that synthetic textiles shed large amounts of microplastic fibers, with amounts varying by fabric type, wash temperature, and cycle intensity.
Use a microplastic-catching laundry filter bag. Wash synthetics on gentle, cold cycles. Choose natural-fiber clothing when possible.
The research at a glance
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Clothes