Choosing the Best Washing Machine Filter to Combat Microfiber Pollution

Every time you do laundry, millions of tiny synthetic fibers, known as microfibers, are released from your clothes and make their way into our waterways. These microfibers, mostly from fabrics like polyester and nylon, are too small to be captured by traditional washing machine filters. As a result, they often end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans, contributing to the growing problem of microplastic pollution. As these microfibers accumulate in marine environments, they pose a significant threat to aquatic life, disrupt ecosystems, and even enter the food chain, impacting human health.

In response to the growing environmental concern of microfiber pollution, washing machine filters have emerged as an innovative solution. These filters are designed to capture the microscopic fibres that traditional washing machines miss, preventing them from being flushed into our water systems. While the ideal scenario would be for these filters to come built-in or included with washing machines (companies like Xerostech with their XFiltra are leading the way by offering products directly to manufacturers). However, until such filters become standard or regulations change, individuals can take action by purchasing their own filtering solutions. In this article, we'll explore the best options on the market, how they work, and the pros and cons of each, helping you make an informed choice for your household.

1. Guppyfriend Washing Bag

• How It Works: The Washing Bag is made from a specially designed microfilter mesh that traps microfibers released from clothes during the wash. After washing, you clean the bag by removing the microfibers and disposing of them in the garbage (you can do this after the bag is dry, it will look a bit like lint).  

• Pros: No installation required, portable, and extends the life of delicate garments by reducing friction during washing. The company also offers other microfiber-reducing products, such as washcloths and sink filters.

• Cons: Only works for items placed inside the bag, so larger loads may require multiple bags. It can also unbalance the load, leading to wet clothes and either an  extra spin cycle or adding items made of natural fibre outside the bag for balance. Washing is limited to 40°C for optimal performance. 

  
  

2. Cora Ball

• How It Works: The Cora Ball is a ball-shaped device that you add into your washing machine load. As it moves around with your clothes, it catches microfibers in its coral-like structure.

• Pros: Easy to use, works with all washing machines, and captures about 26% of microfibers, according to studies.

• Cons: May not capture as many microfibers as other filters and can sometimes tangle with certain fabrics.

  
  

3. Lint LUV-R

• How It Works: The Lint LUV-R is an external filter system that attaches directly to your washing machine's drainage hose. It uses fine mesh screens to capture microfibers before they enter the wastewater system.

• Pros: Highly effective, capturing 65% of microfibers initially and reaching 100% when the filter is saturated. It’s durable, designed for long-term use, and doesn’t require ongoing purchases of replacement filters.

• Cons: Requires installation and periodic cleaning to maintain effectiveness.

  
  

4. Filtrol 160

• How It Works: The Filtrol 160 is an external filter that connects to your washing machine's discharge hose, capturing microfibers as well as larger lint and debris.

• Pros: High capture efficiency, relatively easy to install, and effective for both synthetic and natural fibres.

• Cons: Installation is required, and the filter needs cleaning and maintenance.

  
  

5. Guppyfriend Washing Machine Filter

• How It Works: Installed on the outlet hose of your washing machine, the Guppyfriend Washing Machine Filter uses a fine mesh filter to capture up to 90% of microfibers before they can enter the wastewater system. The filtered microfibers can be easily removed and disposed of in the garbage.

• Pros: High microfiber capture rate, compatible with all types of washing machines, and easy to clean.

• Cons: Requires installation and regular maintenance. Note: The product is currently sold out but you can contact the company to let them know you are interested).

  
  

6. PlanetCare Filters

• How it works: PlanetCare offers both external and internal filter solutions for washing machines. The filters capture microfibers during the wash cycle and can be replaced when full.

• Pros: Highly efficient, capturing up to 90% of microfibers. The company offers a subscription service that sends replacement filters to your home.

• Cons: Requires installation and ongoing costs for replacement filters.

Key Considerations:

• Installation: Some filters, like the Lint LUV-R and Filtrol 160, require installation, while others, like the Guppyfriend and Cora Ball, are simple to use without any setup.

• Effectiveness: External filters connected to the drainage system tend to capture more microfibers compared to in-drum or bag solutions. Lint collected from the filters must be thrown away (it is not recyclable) or sent back to the company (PlanetCare Filters) to ensure the microfibers do not get into the environment. 

• Maintenance: All require regular cleaning or cartridge replacement to ensure continued effectiveness.

• Cost: Prices vary, with simpler options like the Cora Ball being more affordable, and some external filters like the PlanetCare system involve ongoing costs for replacement filters.

Conclusion:

If you're looking for the most effective solution, external filters like the Filtrol 160 or Lint LUV-R provide high capture rates, though they require installation and maintenance. For travel or if installation is not an option (if you are renting) the Guppyfriend Washing Bag or Cora Ball are excellent choices that don’t require any changes to your machine. Choosing the right filter depends on your priorities, whether it's ease of use, effectiveness, or cost.