Synthetic fibers are being manufactured from recycled plastics, and our closets are filled with the leading contributor to plastic pollution in our world. Recycled plastic is being used in the “Fast Fashion” industry, where clothing can be manufactured cheaply. The problem with these synthetic fabrics is how much they shed. With each wash, thousands, and even millions, of microscopic pieces of plastic are being flushed from your washing machine and out with your home’s wastewater.

Modern washing machines do not filter out fine particles or microfibers that are released from your clothing in the washing process. Many new models have coarse filtration to catch large strings and items like buttons. Fine particles that contribute to the synthetic microfiber pollution problem, however, escape the filter.

So if you want to do your part to prevent this hard-to-see pollutant, you will have to install an aftermarket filter.

• The first step to determine what type of washing machine filter will best suit your needs is to look at the physical space you have available. Aftermarket washing machine filters typically mount on the wall behind or along side your washing machine and require a space 12”t x 8” w x 8” deep.
• You also have to consider the plumbing and maintenance. The Filtrol, for example, has a lid on the top of the unit that needs to be removed for maintenance so you will need at least 4” of space above the Filtrol so proper servicing.
• The drain hose that connects the bottom of the filter to your drain pipe must also flow properly or you will create an air lock or the unit will not drain quickly enough.

If you are looking for an example installation,  check out this video on the Filtrol 160 installation.