Microplastics in Drinking Water: Health Effects & Solutions

What Are Microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles smaller than 5 millimeters. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items, microbeads in personal care products, and industrial pollution.

How Do Microplastics Get Into Drinking Water?

Microplastics enter water systems through various routes: wastewater discharge, landfill leachate, and degradation of plastic waste in the environment. Recent studies have found microplastics in tap water, bottled water, and even rainwater.

Health Effects of Microplastics

Research on microplastics' health effects is still ongoing, but studies suggest potential concerns including inflammation, oxidative stress, and possible translocation to organs.

How to Remove Microplastics

Not all water filters remove microplastics. Look for filters with NSF/ANSI 53 certification or reverse osmosis systems, which can remove up to 99.99% of microplastics.

Best Filters for Microplastics Removal

For microplastics removal, reverse osmosis systems like the iSpring RCC7 (99.99% removal) are most effective. Carbon filters like Waterdrop 10UA can help with taste and PFAS (93% removal) but are less effective for microplastics.

Conclusion

While microplastics in drinking water are a concern, using a quality water filter can significantly reduce your exposure.