Have microplastics from clothing been found in the human body?

Yes, microplastic particles have been detected in human blood, lung tissue, liver, placental tissue, and breast milk. A landmark 2022 study published in Environment International found microplastics in 77% of human blood samples tested, with PET (the polymer used in polyester clothing) being the most commonly identified type. Textile fibers are consistently among the dominant microplastic shapes found in biological samples.

The pathways into the body include ingestion through contaminated food and water, inhalation of airborne fibers, and potentially dermal absorption through the skin. Clothing is a source across all three routes: it sheds fibers into the air you breathe, contaminates water that eventually reaches your tap, and makes direct contact with your skin for hours each day.

While long-term health effects are still being studied, the presence of plastic particles in organs and blood has alarmed researchers. The precautionary approach is to minimize exposure by choosing natural-fiber clothing, bedding, and home textiles. ONDU's mission is to make this transition easier by connecting you with high-quality, natural-fiber brands.