Microplastics — plastic fragments smaller than 5mm — have quietly infiltrated nearly every corner of modern life. They’re in our oceans, our air, our homes… and now, alarmingly, inside the human body.
Recent research and everyday observations show that microplastics are entering us through some unexpected, and often routine, sources.

This deep-dive unpacks where these plastics hide, how they enter our bodies, and what you can realistically do to reduce your exposure.

Paper Isn’t Just Paper: Plastics Hidden in Everyday “Natural” Products

Most people assume paper towels, tissues, or napkins are natural and biodegradable.
But modern paper manufacturing tells another story:

Paper Towels & Tissues Contain Plastic

To prevent paper from falling apart when wet, manufacturers add synthetic polymers such as:

• Polyamide-epichlorohydrin (PAE)

• Acrylates

• Plastic-strengthening resins

These strengthen the fibres but also introduce plastic content that can shed into the air or onto your hands.

Plastic Packaging Makes It Worse

Paper towel rolls are almost always wrapped in plastic film — a major source of microplastic shedding.

The result? A product you thought was “just paper” is often a blend of cellulose and engineered plastics.

Feminine Hygiene Products: One of the Largest Hidden Sources

Few realise that pads and tampons are among the highest plastic-content items we put on or inside our bodies.

Pads Are Up to 90% Plastic

Including:

• Polyethylene waterproof backing

• Polypropylene skin-contact layer

• Super Absorbent Polymers (SAPs) derived from crude oil

• Adhesives, release liners, plastic wrappers

Tampons Are Not Plastic-Free

Often containing:

• A thin plastic stabilising layer

• Polyester string

• Plastic applicator

• Plastic wrapper

Given proximity to highly absorbent parts of the body and long wear times, the potential for microplastic shedding and absorption is significant.

Microplastics Inside the Human Body: What Science Shows

Scientists have now detected microplastics in:

✅ Human blood
✅ Lungs
✅ The placenta (maternal & fetal)
✅ Liver, kidneys, spleen
✅ Even the heart

These particles can travel, accumulate, and trigger inflammation, oxidative stress, and immune responses.

Stored in Fat?

Plastic-associated chemicals (like BPA, phthalates) are lipophilic — meaning:

• They love fat

• They avoid water

So the body often stores them in adipose tissue, where they sit until fat is burned.
During weight loss, these chemicals can re-enter circulation.

This is why plastics are increasingly linked to:

• hormonal disruption

• metabolic issues

• inflammation

• weight gain (“obesogenic” pollutants)

How to Reduce Microplastic Exposure: Practical Steps That Work

Below are realistic changes you can make — the ones that actually move the needle.

✅ In the Kitchen

• Avoid hot drinks in paper takeaway cups (the lining is plastic).

• Never microwave in plastic — use glass or ceramic.

• Replace scratched non-stick pans with cast iron or stainless steel.

• Switch to wooden cutting boards, not plastic.

• Use loose-leaf tea (many tea bags contain plastic).

• Buy sauces/oils in glass, not plastic.

✅ Laundry Changes (These Make a Huge Difference)

• Install a microfiber-catching filter (PlanetCare, Filtrol).

• Use Guppyfriend bags or Cora Balls.

• Wash synthetics on cold, short cycles, and less frequently.

• Air dry — dryers release huge amounts of airborne microplastics.

✅ Improve Indoor Air Quality

• Use a HEPA air purifier.

• Vacuum with a HEPA filter.

• Dust using cotton cloths (microfiber cloths shed microplastics).

Conclusion: Small Changes Create Big Results

Microplastics are unavoidable — but meaningful reduction is possible.
By understanding where they hide and making a few practical swaps, you significantly reduce what enters your home and your body.