While biodegradable pads and tampons may be better than their traditional alternatives, they still generate significant waste that ends up in landfill. Furthermore, their applicators and strings may still contain plastic materials.
Reusable period products, like menstrual cups or cloth pads, offer an effective solution. There are a number of companies promoting such alternatives that are better for both our bodies and planet.
Reusable pads
August has made headlines for their organic cotton tampons, menstrual cups and reusable pads made of natural and recycled materials like fleece and cotton that are hypoallergenic and unlikely to cause irritation or allergies, making them the ideal solution for sensitive skin without any of the harmful chemicals found in disposable products like dioxin, acetone, hexane styrene toluene et cetera found in disposable ones.
Reusable pads may seem more costly initially, but over time they become significantly less costly than buying boxes of disposable pads and can last years with proper care. Furthermore, their reduced maintenance costs allow charities and NGOs to reduce dependency on providing women in developing nations with disposable sanitary products which often become too costly for them to afford long term – something which has had a transformative effect for girls and women who otherwise must make do with using rags or no access at all.
Menstrual cups
Menstrual cups differ from regular tampons or pads in that they’re long-lasting and reusable, meaning you only have to change them every few hours (unlike tampons which must be changed often). Plus, their easy cleaning makes menstrual cup use more efficient.
One study concluded that using a menstrual cup will save money over time while simultaneously decreasing waste generated by disposable pads and tampons. A single menstrual cup generates an estimated 0.4% of plastic waste created over 10 years by traditional pads.
Menstrual cups are constructed from medical-grade silicone derived from silica (the second most abundant mineral on Earth). As such, they’re environmentally-friendly products, as their production or disposal doesn’t cause damage to the earth or harm any wildlife; additionally, hypoallergenic properties make this an attractive option for many women; though there may be an initial learning curve when starting with this type of product.
Period swimwear
Saalt’s eco-friendly period products provide an excellent way to minimize period waste. Their menstrual cups are constructed from medical-grade silicone and can be reused again and again; plus they come in multiple sizes so you’re sure to find one perfect for your flow!
As another eco-friendly option for periods, reusable pads and tampons may also be found at local shops and supermarkets, or online. Plus, these are free from chemicals and fragrances – making them particularly helpful for people with sensitive skin.
Period swimwear is another sustainable solution that’s ideal for swimming and sports activities, offering comfortable yet leak-proof coverage to break down body and period taboos! Check out Love Luna swimwear available at stores like Next.
Organic cotton
Organic cotton is an eco-friendly fabric produced without harmful synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Furthermore, no bleach or dyes were used during its processing – you’ll find organic cotton everywhere from bedding and baby clothing to t-shirts certified by third-party organizations such as GOTS or Oeko-Tex.
Organic tampons have become an increasingly popular way for women to support the environment, as these biodegradable and recyclable products have less of an environmental impact than conventional products do. Furthermore, these organic options don’t contain dangerous chemicals that may cause pain and allergic reactions in users.
Lunapads offer another convenient eco-friendly feminine care option, made of organic cotton for maximum absorbency levels and available at an economical price point to save both time and money in the long run.
