You’ve likely heard of microplastics in oceans and drinking water, but what about the air you breathe? New research reveals that microplastics aren’t just a waterborne issue. They’re also suspended in the air, especially in indoor environments, where we spend up to 90% of our time. 

The Invisible Pollutant All Around Us 

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than 5 millimeters in length, Microplastics in the air typically range from 1 micron to 100 microns, with many being invisible to the naked eye. Indoors, they’re released into the air through the breakdown of synthetic materials like carpets, upholstery, clothing, and even packaging. Indoor air in offices has been shown to contain microplastics in concentrations dozens of times higher than outdoor air, depending on cleaning methods, materials used, and ventilation. With each step, sit, or sweep, microplastics are stirred up into the air, and we breathe them in. 

In fact, some estimates suggest people inhale tens of thousands of microplastic particles annually. The health implications of this exposure are still being studied, but early research points to respiratory inflammation, potential hormonal disruption, and the possibility of these particles traveling to organs through the bloodstream. 

Why Indoor Spaces Matter 

Closed indoor environments often trap airborne pollutants. Without proper ventilation or filtration, these particles can accumulate over time. And poorly maintained ventilation can redistribute and resuspend settled microplastics into breathable air. Regular activities like vacuuming or walking across synthetic flooring may actually increase airborne microplastic concentrations, particularly in spaces that lack advanced filtration systems. 

How to Reduce Exposure Indoors 

The good news? There are practical ways to minimize your exposure to airborne microplastics, especially in the spaces you control: 

• Use HEPA Filtration: High-Efficiency Particulate Air (HEPA) filters are among the most effective tools for capturing microplastics. True HEPA filters (like H13) capture 99.95–99.97% of particles ≥0.1–0.3 microns, making them very effective at capturing airborne microplastics. Look for vacuums and air purifiers equipped with H13 or medical-grade HEPA filters to trap ultrafine particles that standard filters miss. 

• Ventilate Smartly: Opening windows can help dilute indoor pollutants, but it’s not always practical or effective, especially in urban or high-pollution areas. Consider systems that combine smart ventilation with localized purification to remove contaminants without relying solely on outdoor air. 

• Maintain HVAC systems: Dust buildup in ductwork and coils can act as a reservoir for microplastics and other pollutants. Without regular cleaning, HVAC systems may recirculate these particles into the air whenever the system cycles on, especially after disturbances like construction, deep cleaning, or heavy foot traffic. 

• Cut Down on Plastic at the Source: Minimize plastic-based furnishings, synthetic textiles, and disposable packaging wherever possible. Opt for natural fibers and materials in your workspace  

• Clean Strategically: Wet-dusting and mopping reduce the chances of resuspending microplastics into the air compared to dry sweeping or vacuuming with inadequate filters. 

Utilize this checklist to help maintain your spaces and manage microplastics within your air.  

The Case for Smarter Air Quality Management 

As awareness grows around microplastics and other ultrafine particles, building managers and health-conscious consumers alike are rethinking their air quality strategies. Integrating air purification with smart monitoring can help identify problem areas and ensure that filtration efforts are working effectively. 

We may not be able to see microplastics, but we can take action to reduce our exposure. As with many emerging air quality challenges, awareness is the first step, and clean air technology is the next. 

Start with an indoor air quality assessment to understand what you’re breathing and how to improve it. Click here to learn more about Fellowes’ complimentary indoor air quality assessment: https://www.fellowes.com/us/en/catalog/air-quality-management/services/pg/indoor-air-quality-assessment