Microplastics ban: what rules apply now?

  • Background
  • 14 December 2023
  • Edited 8 May 2026
  • 2 min
  • Managing and growing
  • Sustainability

Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic found in many products. They are difficult to remove and are harmful to humans and animals. That is why a European ban on certain microplastics has been in place since 2023. This ban will be gradually extended until 2035. In this article, you can find out which rules currently apply and which other products will be banned.

Which products can you no longer sell?

You are no longer allowed to sell loose plastic glitters and plastic beads measuring 5 millimetres or less. These microplastics are also known as plastic granules or plastic pellets. They were often used to fill soft toys or cushions, for example.

The ban also applies to products to which microplastics have been added. Such as birthday or Christmas decorations or party hats. Until 2023, exfoliating creams and cleaning products often contained plastic micrograins or microbeads.

To what products does the ban not apply?

The ban on microplastics does not apply to these products:

  • Glass or metal products.
  • Biodegradable or soluble glitters.
  • Glitter incorporated into solid materials, such as glue, paint or ink. Or glitter found in snow globes, jewellery, or clothing.
  • Plastic particles created when larger plastic objects break down, such as litter or tyre wear.

What is the purpose of the ban on microplastics?

Microplastics are found in many products we use every day. As a result, they end up in the environment, for example via sewage. And because they are not biodegradable, they remain in the natural environment. With this ban, the EU aims to prevent 500,000 tonnes of small plastic particles from entering the environment over the next 20 years.

When will the ban be expanded?

The ban already applies to some products. Between now and 2035, the ban will be expanded to include more products. For example, from 17 October 2027 microplastics will be banned in rinse-off beauty products, such as shampoo. Detergents, cleaning products, fertiliser products, and microplastics used in agriculture and horticulture will follow in 2028.

The timeline below shows when the rules take effect for each category. 

Timeline ban on microplastics

The ban on microplastics has applied to a number of products since 2023. The law will be expanded in the coming years and will apply to more and more products.

  • On 17 October 2023, the ban came into force for loose glitter, loose plastic granules, and products with microbeads for scrubbing or exfoliating (such as exfoliating creams and cleaning products).
  • On 17 October 2027, the ban will also apply to rinse-off beauty products.
  • On 17 October 2028, the ban will also apply to laundry detergents, cleaning products, other forms of microplastics for use in agriculture and horticulture, and fertiliser products.
  • On 17 October 2029, the ban will also apply to products that use microplastics to add fragrance, such as laundry detergent. And for beauty products that remain on your skin or hair.
  • On 17 October 2031, the ban will also apply to crop protection products and plastic granules for use in plastic sports fields and floors.
  • On 17 October 2035, the ban will also apply to make-up, lip, and nail products. 

Please note that there are specific rules and exceptions for each product group. You can find more information about the ban on microplastics  on the European Commission’s site.

What if I do not follow the rules?

The Netherlands Food and Consumer Product Safety Authority  (NVWA) is monitors the microplastics ban. The NVWA takes action if it receives a report about companies not complying with the ban. In that case, you could be fined or penalised (in Dutch). 

 

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