Some 5.8 billion tampons were sold in the U.S. in 2018. That’s an incredible amount of plastic entering the environment. Tampons come wrapped in plastic, with plastic applicators, plastic strings – some tampons even have traces of plastic in the absorption part.
Pads certainly play a large part in the plastic problem, as well, as many are entirely wrapped in plastic and equipped with plastic flaps.
Having an eco-friendly period can sound impossible when the products available to women are almost entirely plastic-packed and generally single-use. For those of us trying to live waste-free, it can be extremely difficult to balance our values with our menstrual cycle.
There are, however, a few different brands, tips, and tricks that certainly come in handy when trying to live waste-free when it’s that time of the month. Keep reading to find out how you can have an eco-friendly and waste-free period!
Menstrual cups
Insert, remove, clean – once you can get over the initial idea of menstrual cups, these are the most eco-friendly period option out there. They’re also the most talked-about of all the eco-friendly products, but many people still seem reluctant to have to clean up their own mess once a month. We figure it is better to deal with the mess now than have future generations clean it up later!
Anyway, menstrual cups are small cups with a stem you use for removal. These are usually made out of medical-grade silicone, which is both durable and recyclable! Some of the most popular menstrual cup brands include DivaCup, Moon Cup, the Lunette, Ruby Cup, and Candid Cup (which is also collapsable).
Eco-friendly tampons
If you want to use tampons instead of other bulkier, eco-friendly period options but still want to rid yourself of plastic for good, check out Freda.
Freda has created 100 percent eco-friendly and renewable tampons (and pads) from materials sourced in a sustainable way. Their goal is to normalize menstruation and for women to finally be proud of their eco-friendly products all the while. We certainly believe they have succeeded!
Arguably one of the most awesome aspects of this company is that it donates a percentage of all profits to organizations working to end period poverty. You can even get their natural products personalized and delivered right to your door every month!
Period panties
I don’t know a single woman who doesn’t own a pair of ‘period panties,’ aka underwear that is bulky, large, and far from aesthetically pleasing. Now, however, period panties are actually a menstrual item that aids you in your attempt to make your period totally waste-free – and they’re actually stylish!
Period panties are normally made of thick fabrics that absorb your flow. If you have a heavy flow, it may be best to go with one of the zero-waste options above, otherwise, we recommend Thinx, Modi Bodi, Lunapads, Knix, and Dear Kate! After using them, you simply stick them in the wash and dry before your next menstrual cycle!
DIY pads
Take your eco-friendly menstruation experience to the next level by creating your own DIY period products.
Here is a tutorial that will help you get started on creating your very own period pad!
Did you love this article about how to have a sustainable period? Do you want even more information about the ways in which you can make your life more eco-friendly? Then be sure to check out these articles we have rounded up that will help you continue to be more eco-conscious in all aspects of your life!
- 9 apps that will help you live a more eco-friendly life
- Green fitness: 6 essential items for an eco-friendly workout
- 10 eco-friendly bathing suits to get you into the summer spirit
- Looking for a new hobby? Give these 6 eco-friendly activities a try!
