They are invisible, but everywhere: microplastics. You find them in the ocean, in our drinking water, in the air - and even in your wardrobe. What many people don't know is that a large proportion of the microplastics in the environment comes from washing clothes.

In this blog, we explain exactly how that happens, why it is a problem, and what you can do to reduce your impact - without compromising on freshness or care.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are small plastic particles, usually smaller than 5 millimetres. They form when larger pieces of plastic break down, or are produced directly as small granules (such as those used in scrubs or personal care products). In clothing, microplastics often come from synthetic fibres such as polyester, nylon and acrylic.

When you wash synthetic clothing, microfibres are released and enter rivers and oceans through wastewater. One wash of a fleece sweater can release up to 250,000 microfibres. And those fibres? They don't go away.

Why are microplastics a problem?

  • They are not biodegradable - which means they remain in the environment for years.

  • Marine animals (and ultimately humans) ingest them through food and water.

  • They have been linked to health risks, such as inflammation, hormonal disruption and impaired immune system function.

  • They burden the entire ecosystem - from plankton to humans.

And the troubling part is that much of this pollution happens without us realising it - simply while we wash our clothes.

How can you reduce it?

Fortunately, you can make a difference as a consumer. Here are a few practical steps:

1. Wash less often
Every wash causes wear and fibre loss. If your clothes are not visibly dirty, you can often wear them again. For example, use a clothing refresher such as the Monsor Apparel Launder spray to keep clothes fresh between washes - without water or a washing machine.

2. Choose natural fabrics
Cotton, linen, wool and lyocell do not release microplastics. By choosing natural materials, you immediately reduce your impact. Note: even “sustainable” synthetic fabrics can contain microplastics if they are made from plastic.

3. Use a laundry bag or filter
Special laundry bags such as Guppyfriend capture a large proportion of microfibres before they enter the water. There are also washing machine filters that remove microplastics from wastewater.

4. Air-dry your clothes
Microfibres can also be released in the dryer. By airing your clothes or drying them on a rack, you avoid extra wear and microplastic emissions.

Monsor: microplastic-free, from formula to bottle

At Monsor, we take this problem seriously. That's why our Apparel Launder spray is 100% free of microplastics - both in its ingredients and its packaging. No artificial polymers, no synthetic fragrances, no hidden plastics.

We believe fresh clothes should not have to harm the environment. And that starts with transparent, clean formulas.

Small habits, big impact

The fight against microplastics begins with awareness - and simple choices. Such as what you buy, how you wash and which products you use in your daily routine. By washing less and caring for your clothes more often, you are not only taking care of your clothes, but also of the world around you.

Your clothes. Your routine. Your impact.