Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments, less than 5 millimeters in size, that have been increasingly found in our environment, including...
Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments, less than 5 millimeters in size, that have been increasingly found in our environment, including our drinking water. While the health effects of microplastics are still being researched, many people are looking for ways to reduce their exposure.
Here's some good news: a recent study reports that a simple and age-old practice – boiling your tap water – could significantly reduce your intake of microplastics!
How Does Boiling Help?
The study found that boiling tap water, especially hard water rich in minerals like calcium, can trap microplastics. As the water heats up, calcium carbonate (the white, chalky substance you see in kettles) forms and encapsulates the tiny plastic particles. This “clumping” allows them to be filtered out more easily.
How Effective is Boiling?
The study showed that boiling removed up to 90% of microplastics from hard water samples. However, the effectiveness can vary depending on the mineral content of your water. Boiling soft water with lower mineral content only removed around 25% of microplastics.
What Does This Mean for You?
If you're concerned about microplastics in your drinking water, boiling your tap water, especially if you have hard water, is a simple and potentially effective way to reduce your intake. Here's what you can do:
- Bring your tap water to a rolling boil for 5 minutes.
- Let the water cool completely before drinking. You can also use a stovetop kettle or another container specifically designated for boiling water.
- Consider using a filter to remove any remaining calcium carbonate particles after boiling.
Keep in mind:
- Water hardness matters: Boiling works best with hard water that has a higher mineral content.
- Limescale buildup: Over time, limescale can build up in your kettle. This is harmless, but you may need to descale it periodically.
Important to Consider
While boiling water is a promising option to reduce the concentration of microplastics, it's important to note that more research is needed to fully understand its effectiveness in different regions and water qualities. In addition, this research still needs to be reproducible by other scientific groups.
Other Ways to Reduce Microplastic Intake
- Look for water filters certified to remove microplastics.
- Avoid using plastic bottles and containers whenever possible.
- Reduce your overall plastic consumption.
By taking these steps, you can help minimize your exposure to microplastics and protect your health.
