Microplastics have become an increasing concern in both tap and bottled water, leaving many households wondering how to limit exposure. Reverse osmosis (RO) systems are one of the most effective solutions available. Using a tightly woven membrane and options for comprehensive additional filtration stages, Culligan reverse osmosis systems — when paired with the Total Defense cartridge — are certified to reduce more than 99% of microplastics. It also targets more than 90 other common contaminants.
Keep reading for a closer look at what microplastics are, how they reach your water and how reverse osmosis can filter them along with dozens of other contaminants.
Does reverse osmosis remove microplastics?
Reverse osmosis systems combine several stages of filtration, including a semipermeable membrane that helps separate many unwanted particles from water. But it’s not just the membrane that matters: paired with Culligan’s Total Defense cartridge, our Aquasential® Reverse Osmosis systems are certified to reduce microplastics by more than 99% — and can filter more than 90 other substances like chlorine, lead and arsenic. That means with RO filtration, you’re not just addressing one emerging concern; you’re getting comprehensive protection at the tap.
Other benefits of a reverse osmosis system
Installing a reverse osmosis filtration system is an effective way to avoid microplastic exposure, but it also offers a range of other benefits:
- Fewer filter changes: Compared to pitcher or refrigerator filters, reverse osmosis systems require less-frequent maintenance. Culligan RO filters typically need to be replaced only every 1–2 years, with the membrane lasting 3–5 years. Pitcher filters may require replacement as often as every two months.
- Less plastic waste: A reverse osmosis system delivers fresh, filtered water directly from your kitchen sink — without the need for single-use plastic bottles. By reducing reliance on bottled water, you help cut down on plastic waste and the microplastics it creates.
- Less worry: Reverse osmosis offers peace of mind by providing reliable protection against a wide range of water quality concerns. Advanced systems are designed to reduce contaminants including PFAS, lead, viruses and more, giving you greater confidence in every glass.
[Insert “Explore Products (reverse osmosis systems)” CTA here]
Explore water filtration solutions.
What you need to know about microplastics in water
Microplastics are an emerging water quality concern, but in the U.S. and Canada there are currently no federal regulations requiring municipal treatment facilities to address them. While research is ongoing, it’s helpful to understand what they are, how they get into drinking water and why they matter.
What are microplastics?
As the name suggests, microplastics are tiny plastic particles. There are two main types:
- Primary microplastics: These particles are designed for commercial use in everything from cosmetics to fishing nets, and they start out small.
- Secondary microplastics: Plastic waste breaks into smaller pieces instead of breaking down; secondary microplastics are really just bits of single-use water bottles, food packaging and other trash.
It’s important to note that microplastics aren’t the same as nanoplastics. The latter are even smaller — less than 1 micrometer, making them more difficult to research.
The plastic pollution problem
Microplastics are found in nearly every part of the environment — in air, soil, dust and water. Rain and natural water systems can carry them into rivers, reservoirs and groundwater, where they may eventually reach your tap. Because they’re so widespread, it’s easy for them to end up in both municipal and private well supplies.
Microplastics and safety
There is little known to date about the potential effects of microplastics on health and safety. Scientists at the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and elsewhere are working to understand their impacts.
However, for most people, it’s still unpleasant to think about consuming microplastics. That’s just one reason more households are considering advanced home water filtration options like reverse osmosis.
FAQs about reverse osmosis and microplastics
You don’t need to be an expert to benefit from reverse osmosis filtration, but it helps to understand how RO relates to microplastics. Here are answers to some common questions:
Are there microplastics in bottled water?
Yes. Studies have found microplastic particles in a few common bottled water brands — in some cases, hundreds of thousands of particles per liter. According to researchers, one likely source is the cap itself. Each time the lid is twisted on or off, it can shed particles that end up in the water.
Can all treatment systems remove microplastics?
Not all water treatment solutions are created equal. For example, simpler systems may not be designed to filter out impurities as small as microplastics. Others may catch some but not all of the particles. The most reliable option is a system that carries third-party certification to ANSI/NSF standards, such as a certified reverse osmosis system.
Does all water have microplastics?
Microplastics have been found in both tap and bottled water. Because these particles are so small and widespread, they can be found in lakes, rivers, reservoirs and aquifers. That means microplastics could potentially be in both city and well water.
Although municipal solutions like wastewater treatment plants may remove some plastic particles, depending on their treatment approach, others can remain. Meanwhile, private wells aren’t regulated by municipal or federal governments, so the homeowner is responsible for addressing any potential quality issues, including microplastics.
Are there DIY solutions for microplastic removal?
No. While DIY fixes can help with some water quality concerns, they won’t effectively reduce microplastics. Methods like boiling, bleaching or letting water sit out simply don’t work for this type of contamination. A certified reverse osmosis system is the most practical solution for households that want to reduce microplastic exposure.
Address microplastics in drinking water
While experts are still studying the health impacts of microplastics, most people would rather not find them in their glass. Reverse osmosis provides an effective way to reduce these particles along with many other contaminants, helping protect your household and giving you greater confidence in every sip.
Ready to take the next step? Browse reverse osmosis filtration systems or schedule your free in-home water consultation now.
