With increasing awareness around the environmental impacts of disposable items, fortunately there are a variety of options for those keen to have low waste periods. Discover the range of reusable menstrual products so you can enjoy the cost saving, convenience and environmental benefits!
Why choose reusable period products?
Did you know that a person can expect to use approximately 10 000 menstrual products in their lifetime, with most ending up in landfill?1 In landfill, disposable menstrual products would likely take 300-500 years to decompose, if ever2. Fortunately, by switching to reusable menstrual products you can avoid waste associated with managing your period, and save money at the same time!
The amount of money you save by switching to reusable period products will depend on the frequency of your period, how heavy your flow is and the typical duration of your period. Next month take note of how many products you use and how much they cost, and you will be able to work out how much you typically spend in a year. It’s estimated however that a person will spend around $100 a year to manage their period3. By switching to reusable period products, you can avoid the shops each month and save money!
Cloth pads and absorbent period underwear flex with your body making them comfortable to wear. When menstrual cups and discs are inserted correctly, you won’t feel them and because they are reusable, you’ll never run out making them super convenient!
Reusable Period product styles
Period underwear
Absorbent period underwear are an alternative to disposable pads and are similar to regular underwear, but have layers of absorbency sewn in. They absorb your flow similar to pads and come in different absorbency levels, and you wear them in place of you regular underwear.
They are available in many different styles such as bikini briefs and trunks, and look just like regular underwear making them a great way to get into reusable period products.
The number of cloth pads or pairs of period underwear you’ll need will vary from person to person, but roughly you’ll need around 6-12 with varying levels of absorbency, to match your flow from day to day. You may wish to have spares in case some are in the wash, or to carry in your bag for outings.
Cloth pads
Cloth pads are another reusable alternative to disposable pads and liners, and come in different absorbency levels. They stay in place by wrapping around your underwear with wings that attach to each other with press studs. They often have a polyurethane laminate (PUL) layer to prevent leaks and are usually topped with cotton or bamboo fabric with internal layers for extra absorbency.
Cloth liners and pads come in many different shapes, sizes, fabrics and absorbency levels – so you’re bound to find a type that suits your needs, budget and body. There are also handmade pads available where you can purchase a custom set made especially for you, in fabrics and patterns of your choice.
The number of cloth pads or pairs of period underwear you’ll need will vary from person to person, but roughly you’ll need around 6-12 with varying levels of absorbency, to match your flow from day to day. You may wish to have spares in case some are in the wash, or to carry in your bag for outings.
Menstrual cups
A menstrual cup is a tampon alternative worn inside the vagina that collects flow rather than absorbing it. Once inserted they form a seal. Cups come in all sizes and shapes to fit the wearer and are often made from medical grade silicone. A cup can be worn for up to 8-10 hours depending on the brand and your flow. It can take a few cycles to get the hang of it so at first you may wish to use cloth pad or period underwear as a backup.
If you have decided that a menstrual cup or disc is for you - you only need to buy one – making them a very simple switch that can be used for years (sometimes up to 10 years if looked after well and depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations).
Menstrual discs
Menstrual discs are another reusable alternative to tampons that are worn inside the vagina to collect flow rather than absorbing it. Unlike cups, rather than creating a seal they prop into place against your public bone, so the size and shape of the disc matters less. Cups and discs are very convenient as you only need one to manage your period – just wash and reuse!
If you have decided that a menstrual cup or disc is for you - you only need to buy one – making them a very simple switch that can be used for years (sometimes up to 10 years if looked after well and depending on the manufacturer’s recommendations).
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