Microplastics
Found in virtually every water source on Earth — including Columbus tap water.
Microplastics in Central Ohio
Microplastics have been detected in tap water systems across the United States, including Ohio. While Columbus does not currently report microplastic concentrations in its Consumer Confidence Report, studies of Great Lakes and Ohio River basin water systems consistently find microplastic particles. The science on health effects is still developing.
What Is Microplastics?
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5mm — many are invisible to the naked eye. They enter water supplies from plastic packaging breakdown, synthetic clothing fibers, tire wear particles, and industrial processes. A 2018 study found microplastics in 83% of global tap water samples. Research on health effects is ongoing, but microplastics can carry other contaminants (including PFAS and heavy metals) adsorbed to their surface, and nanoplastics may penetrate cell membranes.
Health Effects of Microplastics
Signs You May Have Microplastics in Your Water
Invisible to the naked eye
Most microplastics are too small to see. Nanoplastics are orders of magnitude smaller.
No taste or odor
Microplastics are undetectable without laboratory analysis.
Carrier for other toxins
Microplastic particles attract and concentrate PFAS, heavy metals, and pesticides on their surface.
How to Remove Microplastics from Your Water
Not all filtration systems remove Microplastics. Here's what actually works.
Reverse Osmosis (RO)
RecommendedRO membranes (0.0001 micron) are far smaller than microplastic particles, removing virtually 100% of microplastics from drinking water. The most effective residential solution.
Whole-Home Carbon Block Filtration
High-quality carbon block filters (1 micron or smaller) can capture many microplastic particles throughout the home.
Microplastics Questions & Answers
Related Contaminants
Synthetic chemicals that never break down — and accumulate in your body over time.
Columbus switched from chlorine to chloramines in 2004 — here's what that means for your home.
There is no safe level of lead in drinking water — especially for children under 6.
Is Microplastics in Your Water?
The only way to know for certain is to test. We'll come to your home, test your water on the spot, and show you exactly what's in it — no pressure, no obligation.