Microplastics in Australian Tap Water: How Worried Should You Be?

Microplastics have been detected in tap water worldwide, but the World Health Organization says that, based on current evidence, they don’t appear to pose a health risk at the levels found in drinking water. Research is ongoing — and if you’d rather reduce what’s in your glass, a fine activated-carbon filter is the simplest way to cut microplastics at the tap.

What are microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny plastic fragments smaller than 5 mm, shed from packaging, synthetic clothing, tyres and the slow breakdown of larger plastic waste. They’re now found almost everywhere — in oceans, soil, air and water supplies, including treated tap water.

What does the science say about the risk?

In its review of the evidence, the World Health Organization concluded that microplastics in drinking water don’t appear to pose a health risk at current levels, while stressing the data is limited and more research is needed. Key points:

• Particles larger than 150 micrometres are unlikely to be absorbed by the body.
• Uptake of smaller particles is expected to be limited.
• There isn’t yet enough information on the very smallest nanoplastics.

In short: not a proven hazard, but not fully understood either — which is why many households choose to reduce exposure where it’s easy.

How do microplastics get into tap water?

• Source water: rivers, dams and groundwater already carry microplastics.
• Plastic plumbing and fittings: can shed tiny particles over time.
• Bottled water, ironically: studies have found bottled water often contains more microplastics than tap, from the bottle and cap themselves.

How to reduce microplastics in your water

1. Filter at the tap. A multi-stage activated-carbon block physically traps fine particles, including microplastics.
2. Skip single-use bottled water. It’s a common microplastic source — and far pricier. See our tap vs bottled comparison.
3. Store water in glass or stainless steel rather than plastic.

Where a tap filter fits in

Filtering is optional rather than essential for safety on Australian mains water. If you do want to cut chlorine taste, sediment and microplastics, a point-of-use activated-carbon filter is one simple, low-cost option. PureFlow is one such tap-mounted filter, but the right choice depends on your water and your household — it is worth comparing the options and deciding what suits you.

Frequently asked questions

Does Australian tap water contain microplastics?
Like most treated water worldwide, trace microplastics can be present. Australian mains water still meets the Australian Drinking Water Guidelines.

Does boiling remove microplastics?
No — boiling doesn’t remove plastic particles, but a fine carbon filter does. See does boiling make water safer.

Is bottled water lower in microplastics?
Often the opposite — research has found bottled water can contain more microplastics than tap.