The Microbeads Rule of Thumb

Remember to look for ingredients that include the word "poly." Polyethylene is commonly found in soaps and cleansers. (Photo: Ruby Pajares )

You’re aware tiny plastics are washing down our drains, through our sewer systems, and into our waterways. You’re aware fish are eating microbeads, adding plastic to our food chain. You’re aware plastic carries toxins to our waters, to our fish, and to us.

Why are these small plastics available to purchase? What you can do to help the situation?

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Join our ask of the Federal government.

The first step in solving this macro problem is to stop purchasing products containing microbeads.

But how do you know which items contain microbeads and which don’t?

What if you don’t physically see microbeads? What if the product doesn’t actually say “microbeads?” You’ve tried looking at the list of ingredients but like most people, you don’t know all of the scientific names for plastic. So what do you do?

Just remember: If there’s an ingredient that starts with “poly,” assume the product contains something synthetic.

“Poly” hints at its synthetic polymer properties. Polyethylene and polypropylene are the most common forms of plastic found in soaps and cleansers. You may also find polyethylene terephthalate, polymethyl methacrylate, and nylon listed as ingredients.

“Is there an official list of products that contain microbeads?” There are lists that currently exist but these lists are still growing.

Help identify products containing microbeads

Post photos of products you’ve come across. In the comments below, share the name of the product and note whether it contains microbeads.

Helping identify products containing microbeads enables more consumers to make better choices. When consumers make better choices, our lakes and rivers will have more to celebrate in 2015. And so will we.