Microplastics in tap water: what you need to know in 2026

Published on June 16, 2026 | Reading time: ~12 minutes

Microplastics are now ubiquitous, including in Dutch tap water. Research by the RIVM and international scientists shows that we ingest tiny plastic particles daily through drinking water. But what exactly does that mean, how great is the risk, and can you filter microplastics from tap water? In this article, we explain it step by step.

1. Are there microplastics in Dutch tap water?

In short: yes. A study published in Environmental Science & Technology found microplastics in tap water worldwide, including in European countries. The RIVM confirms that microplastics are found in the Dutch drinking water system, although concentrations vary by water catchment area and season.

Water companies in the Netherlands (affiliated with Vewin) are actively working to improve purification techniques, but standard water treatment is not specifically designed to completely remove nanoplastics. Tap water legally meets all quality standards, but for microplastics, there is currently no legal standard.

2. Why are microplastics problematic?

The science is still evolving, but there are serious indications that microplastics can be harmful:

• Carrier of harmful substances: Microplastics bind to endocrine-disrupting chemicals, heavy metals, and PFAS, also known as forever chemicals.
• Inflammation in the body: Laboratory research shows that small plastic particles can damage cells and trigger inflammatory reactions.
• Accumulation: Nanoplastics are so small that they can penetrate cell membranes. Research by Maastricht University found microplastics in human blood and heart tissue.
• Long-term unknown: Because widespread exposure is relatively new, the long-term effect on human health has not yet been sufficiently investigated.

3. Is bottled water a solution for microplastics?

No, and this surprises many people. Bottled water contains, on average, more microplastics than tap water. A study published in PNAS (2018) found an average of 10.4 particles per liter in bottled water worldwide, while tap water contained an average of 5.5 particles per liter. Furthermore, the plastic bottle itself also releases microplastics into the water, especially when exposed to heat or stored for a long time.

Buying bottled water as a safe alternative to microplastics is therefore counterproductive. It is also more expensive, environmentally burdensome, and impractical. Read more in our comparison tap water vs. bottled water.

4. Benefits of filtering tap water for microplastics

• Effective removal: a certified filter traps microplastics and nanoplastics down to the particle level.
• Less plastic in the home: no more need for plastic bottles, thus fewer microplastics from packaging.
• Broad spectrum: also removes PFAS, chlorine, drug residues, and heavy metals simultaneously.
• Cheaper: more economical than consistently buying bottled water.
• More environmentally friendly: no plastic waste and no transportation.
• Convenience: direct access to filtered water from the tap.

5. Points to consider when filtering microplastics

• Not every filter is suitable: a simple carbon filter, like those in a Brita pitcher, is insufficient for nanoplastics.
• Replace on time: filters must be replaced regularly to remain effective.
• Choose certified: a cheap filter without certification offers no guarantee of actual removal.
• Regional differences: tap water quality varies by region; a filter adjusts the water for your specific situation.

6. Which water filter removes microplastics?

Not every filter is equally effective. Below is a comparison of the most commonly used options:

7. How does the PureFilter Mineral+ work against microplastics?

The PureFilter Mineral+ is an inline filter that is installed directly under the sink. The water passes through a multi-stage filtration system that:

• Traps microplastics and nanoplastics via activated carbon and mechanical filtration.
• Removes PFAS, chlorine, pharmaceutical residues, and heavy metals, certified according to NSF 42, 53, 61, and 372.
• Adds calcium, magnesium, and potassium through the unique Swedish Mineral Rock™ technology.

The result: water that is not only cleaner but also richer in taste and better balanced in minerals. At PureFilter, we find that customers primarily choose the certainty of certified filtration, combined with the convenience of mineral water directly from the tap, without plastic bottles.

A filter's capacity is 15,000 to 20,000 liters, which translates to an average of 12 months for a typical household. After that, you simply replace the replacement filter starting from 49.90 euros.

8. Can I combine PureFilter with a Quooker?

Yes, absolutely. The PureFilter Mineral+ can be placed before a boiling water tap like a Quooker. This way, all water, including boiling water, passes through the filter. You get filtered, mineral-rich, and boiling water from the same tap. Want to know more? Check out our page water filter Quooker.

9. Is microplastic filtering mandatory or necessary?

There is no legal obligation to extra filter your tap water. Dutch tap water meets all European quality standards. However, because there are no legal standards for microplastics yet, it is up to the consumer to decide how much risk is acceptable.

For those who want certainty about what is in their drinking water, and at the same time want to enjoy the benefits of mineral water, a high-quality inline filter like PureFilter is a logical, practical choice. Also, check out our comparison pages PureFilter vs. Brita and PureFilter vs. Berkey.

10. Frequently Asked Questions about microplastics in tap water

11. Conclusion: filtering microplastics in tap water

Microplastics are genuinely present in Dutch tap water, although concentrations are low. Bottled water does not offer a solution; in fact, it contains more microplastics. A certified inline water filter is the most effective and sustainable way to remove microplastics and other contaminants like PFAS from your drinking water.

The PureFilter Mineral+ combines this extensive filtration with the addition of calcium, magnesium, and potassium via Swedish Mineral Rock™ technology. Installation takes 5 to 10 minutes, and the system works directly with your existing tap, also in combination with a Quooker. View the full range at purefilter.nl or read our guide on the best water filter for home.