textiles synthétiques

You take clean clothes out of the washing machine. What you cannot easily see are the small fibres that may have come loose during the cycle. Small fibres shed from synthetic polymers such as polyester can be microplastics.

How much a garment releases depends on the fabric, its condition and the washing conditions. The way researchers collect and measure fibres also affects the result. A striking number from one experiment cannot tell you exactly what your own jumper releases.

There are practical choices you can make: avoid unnecessary washes, follow care labels and use an appropriate load. A purpose-designed washing bag or filter may capture some fibres too. None of these measures makes washing completely fibre-free.

How do clothes release fibres?

Textiles are made from fibres arranged into yarns and fabrics. During manufacture, wear, washing and drying, fibres or fragments can become detached.

Inside a washing machine, movement, contact between materials and water contribute to the process.