PFAS vs. Microplastics: What's the Difference and How To Keep Them Out of Your Water?

Recently, there have been two types of pollutants are causing concerns for many families and their water: PFAS often called "forever chemicals” and microplastics.

They’re both persistent, widespread, and potentially harmful, but they’re not the same. So, what are they, how might they affect your health and how can you kick them out of your home?

Let's break it down!

Microplastics: Small but Mighty (in the worst way)

What are they?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles less than five millimeters in size. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags and synthetic textiles, or are manufactured intentionally for use in cosmetics and cleaning products.

What are they made of?

Microplastics are made from various types of polymers, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene. These materials are tough and don’t break down easily, which is why they stick around in the environment for decades.

Where do they come from?

• Plastic waste breaking down
• Microbeads in personal care products¹
• Synthetic fibers from clothing
• Industrial processes

Where can you find microplastics?

Microplastics are found nearly everywhere – in oceans, rivers, soil and even the air. They can travel long distances and end up in our ecosystems, often being eaten by wildlife and entering our food chain².

Why should you care?

While research is ongoing, microplastics have been found in human tissues, including lungs and blood³. They may cause:

• Inflammation
• Hormone disruption
• Chemical exposure from absorbed pollutants

Visit the World Health Organizations website to learn more about the potential health impacts from microplastics.

Are they regulated?

Unfortunately, microplastics may already exist in most food and water supplies. But progress is being made! Many countries have banned microbeads in cosmetics¹, and efforts are underway to reduce plastic pollution through recycling initiatives and single-use plastic bans⁴.

PFAS: The “Forever Chemical”

What are they?

PFAS are a group of synthetic chemicals used in products that resist water and grease—like non-stick pans, waterproof jackets, and food packaging. They’re often referred to as “forever chemicals” because they do not break down easily in the environment or your body.

What are they made of?

PFAS contain carbon-fluorine bonds, one of the strongest chemical bonds in chemistry, making them highly resistant to degradation. While that sounds complicated, it essentially means the chemical compound is extremely strong and hard to destroy. Common PFAS include PFOA, PFOS and GenX chemicals¹.

Where do they come from?

• Non-stick cookware
• Water-repellent clothing
• Food packaging
• Firefighting foams
• Industrial processes

Where do they end up?

PFAS are highly mobile in water and can contaminate drinking water². They build up in soil, groundwater, and living organisms for years.

Why should you care?

Exposure to PFAS has been linked to:

• Increased cholesterol levels
• Immune system suppression
• Hormonal disruption
• Increased risk of certain cancers²

Are they regulated?

Regulatory bodies like the EPA have set health advisory limits for PFAS in drinking water² and some states have set strict standards to combat against PFAS.

How to Reduce PFAS and Microplastics at Home

Now that you understand what they are and possible risks, let's talk about how to take action at home. One of the best ways to reduce these pollutants is through water filtration!

Step 1: Find Out What’s in Your Water

Most people don't know what's in their tap water, but it's easier than you think to find out.

• Schedule a free water test with a local expert. Having an expert test your water is one of the best ways to find out exactly what is in your water. They'll take samples directly from your tap and recommend the best filtration system for your needs.
• Check your local water quality report. Public water systems in the United States are required to provide a water quality report to their customers on an annual basis. These reports have detailed information on the source and treatment of your water as well as the levels of chemicals or contaminants. Use the EPA’s website to find out more about your water.

Step 2: Choose the Right Water Filter

Once you know what's in your water, you can find the right filtration system to address it. Whether you are on a private well or connected to city water, there are filters that can help.

Investing in water filtration can provide great health benefits for you and your family, and reduce potentially harmful contaminants like lead, chlorine, cysts, PFAS and microplastics. To help protect your household from PFAS or microplastics, consider the solutions below.  

• HomeShield Whole House Water Filter: Certified to target tough contaminants like PFAS*, with internally validated chlorine reduction — delivering cleaner, healthier water from every tap in your home
• InterFlo IF-14 Water Filter: This under sink water filter reduces over 99% of microplastics, making it a powerful choice for cleaner, safer water

*HomeShield is certified to reduce the following PFAS substances: PFNA, PFOA, PFOS, PFHpA, PFHxS.

Bonus Tips to Reduce Exposure

While PFAS and microplastics are complex issues, there are practical steps you can take to reduce your exposure and the environmental impact:

• Avoid single-use plastics and use reusable alternatives instead
• Check product labels for PFAS-free certifications
• Support policies aimed at reducing plastic waste and regulating PFAS
• Spread the word and encourage cleaner production practices

The Bottom Line

PFAS and microplastics might be invisible, but their impact is real. Microplastics are the leftovers of our plastic habits, while PFAS are stealthy chemicals hiding in everyday items. The good news? You can fight back – with knowledge, smart filters, and a few lifestyle tweaks.

Ready to take control of your water quality? Schedule your free water test with a local water dealer and start your journey toward cleaner, healthier water.

 

References

1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). "PFAS Explained." https://www.epa.gov/pfas/pfas-explained
2. EPA. "Drinking Water Health Advisories for PFOA and PFOS." https://www.epa.gov/sdwa/and-polyfluoroalkyl-substances-pfas
3. National Institutes of Health (NIH). "Microplastics and Human Health." https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9494273
4. UNEP. "Plastic Pollution: Microplastics in the Environment." https://www.unep.org/resources/report/plastic-pollution
5. Science Advances. "Detection of Microplastics in Human Blood." https://www.science.org/doi/10.1126/sciadv.abq0850