How to avoid micro plastic when washing synthetic clothes
Polyester, acrylic, nylon…more than 60% of the worlds clothes are made of plastic.
The production of synthetic fabrics exploits limited resources and contaminates the environment throughout the process.
With every machine wash those clothes release micro plastic in form of fibers, that eventually enter the worlds water cycle.
One of the many things we can do, to reduce our plastic footprint, is to purchase only apparel that is free from synthetics. Organic cotton, for example, is a great alternative and as eco- friendly as fashion gets.
If you already own synthetic clothes, you should keep wearing them as long and much as you want. It would be a pointless waste of resources and not reduce your plastic impact at all, if your beloved sports shirt ends up in the landfill.
Feel like being on the horns of a dilemma now? Don’t worry!
By simply following, six easy washing rules, you can cut down the release of plastic fibers.
- Wash with the lowest temperature available, cold would be best.
- Spin at moderate velocity and avoid long spinning cycles.
- Wash only fully loaded machine. Slower spinning in a fuller machine causes less friction, which is crucial.
- Don’t use softener. Softener contaminates the water and will detach even more fibers from the fabric. Vinegar is an eco- friendly alternative and a few drops of essential oil will give a nice smell.
- Invest in aspecial bag to collect micro plastic in the tumble while washing, There are as well special filter systems on the market.
- Air- dry if u can.
And wash only if really necessary. A stain remover or just some airing is often sufficient.