Every year in North America, almost 20 billion sanitary napkins, tampons, and applicators end up in landfills, creating a significant environmental impact. The average person who menstruates will use around 9,000 to 10,000 tampons in their lifetime. These feminine hygiene products contain materials like cotton, plastic, and synthetic ingredients that contribute to greenhouse gas production when disposed of in landfills. Flushing them down the toilet can also lead to blockages and environmental hazards when they enter waterways.
Fortunately, there are zero-waste period products available that are not only eco-friendly but also cost-effective. Let’s take a look at some of the most sustainable options to help you transition to a greener period.
Period Underwear
Period panties are designed to absorb menstrual flow, preventing leaks and keeping you dry. They can be used as a backup with other period products or on their own, replacing disposable pads and liners.
How To Clean Period Panties
After each use, rinse the underwear in cold water, then wash it with natural soap. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener. Let them air dry or use a low heat setting in the dryer.
We Recommend Aisle Period Underwear
Aisle period underwear can hold the equivalent of eight tampons and eliminates the need for uncomfortable pads and liners. They come in a variety of colors, styles, and absorbencies.
Washable Cloth Pads and Pantyliners
Reusable cloth pads are a sustainable alternative to disposable pads. They are comfortable, long-lasting, and cost-effective in the long run.
How To Clean Cloth Pads
Follow the same washing instructions as for period underwear.
We Recommend Glad Rags
Glad Rags offers reusable pads and pantyliners in fun patterns and colors. Their products are made in the USA with recycled and recyclable packaging.
Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are flexible cups made of silicone or rubber that collect menstrual flow. They are a durable and sustainable alternative to tampons.
Cleaning a menstrual cup involves rinsing it after each use and boiling it in water at the end of each cycle.
We Recommend Cora
Cora’s menstrual cups are made from soft silicone and are easy to insert. The company also supports providing period products and health education to those in need.
Reusable Period Discs
Period discs collect menstrual flow without absorbing it like tampons or sponges. They are reusable and can be worn during intercourse.
How To Clean Menstrual Discs
Reusable discs can be washed and reused, while disposable ones should be used only once.
We Recommend Hello Disc
Hello Disc is made of BPA-free silicone and holds the equivalent of three to five tampons.
Menstrual Sponges
Sea sponges are a sustainable alternative to tampons, as they are highly absorbent and reusable for up to six months.
How To Clean Period Sponges
Clean sea sponges by rinsing them regularly and soaking them in water with vinegar, tea tree oil, hydrogen peroxide, or baking soda.
We Recommend Jade & Pearl
Jade & Pearl’s Sea Pearls Reusable Sea Sponges are available in different sizes and are free of dyes and harsh chemicals.
This article was originally published on March 28, 2022. We updated some product links in April 2024.
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