Microplastics in Indoor Air: What Current Research Shows

Research into microplastics in indoor air shows that tiny plastic particles are not only found outdoors, but also circulate inside our homes. Because bedrooms contain a high concentration of textiles and are spaces where we spend long, uninterrupted hours, they play an important role in overall indoor air quality and sleep comfort.

Understanding where indoor microplastics come from helps us make more informed choices — without fear or overwhelm.

What are microplastics in indoor air?

Microplastics are extremely small plastic particles, often invisible to the naked eye. In indoor environments, they can become airborne through everyday movement and settle as bedroom dust.

Scientific studies analysing indoor air samples have identified synthetic fibres — such as polyester and microfibre — as one of the most common forms of airborne microplastics found inside homes.

How do microplastics enter indoor air?

Microplastics in indoor air come from a combination of sources, including:

• Synthetic textiles and plastic bedding

• Carpets, rugs, and upholstered furniture

• Foam-based pillows and mattresses

• Clothing made from polyester or acrylic

Normal daily activity — like moving, sleeping, and making the bed — can cause synthetic fibres in bedding to loosen and circulate into the surrounding air.

Why bedrooms deserve special attention

Bedrooms are different from other living spaces for several reasons:

1. Extended exposure time

Most people spend 7–9 hours each night in their bedroom, breathing the same indoor air for long periods.

2. High textile concentration

Bedrooms typically contain more soft furnishings than any other room — pillows, bedding, throws, curtains — making them a key contributor to microplastics in homes.

3. Close proximity during sleep

Your pillow and bedding sit directly beneath your face, meaning material breathability and fibre type matter for comfort and sleep quality.

What research tells us (so far)

Environmental and health research has confirmed:

• Microplastics are present in indoor air and household dust

• Synthetic textile fibres are a dominant form detected indoors

• Indoor exposure may be higher than outdoor exposure due to enclosed spaces and textile density

While research is ongoing, scientists increasingly agree that reducing synthetic fibre sources indoors is a practical step toward improving indoor environments.

Creating a cleaner sleep environment

The goal isn’t to control the air perfectly — it’s to reduce avoidable sources where possible.

One of the easiest places to start is with high-contact sleep items.

Silk pillowcases

• Naturally breathable and smooth

• Do not shed synthetic microfibres

• Support calmer skin and smoother hair

ZenNest™ silk-filled pillow

• Made with 100% natural mulberry silk filling

• Free from polyester and foam

• Naturally temperature-regulating

• Designed to support a cleaner, more comfortable sleep environment

Because your pillow is in close contact with your breathing space all night, choosing natural pillow filling is one of the most impactful changes you can make.

A practical, calm approach

The Clean Sleep Campaign isn’t about eliminating every source of plastic indoors.

It’s about awareness — and starting with what matters most.

Better materials.
Closer to your body.
Night after night.