Did you know that the average menstruator will use approximately 14,000 disposable pads, pantyliners, and tampons in their lifetime? I know – shocking! The timeline of creating a disposable pad is filled with waste and a large carbon footprint. First the item is created, then it is packaged and shipped, then it is used, and then it ends up in the landfill. Isn’t there a better way?
When I learned that used menstrual products are one of the top three largest waste streams in my urban county in Minnesota, I immediately sought out options to decrease my waste in this area. I looked to friends and social media for recommendations about quality reusable menstruation products and started testing products out. You know what? The reusable products I highlight below are more comfortable to wear than disposables, save me money because they are a one time cost, and are much better for the environment.
Tip #1 – Switch to a reusable menstrual cup
A menstrual cup is a reusable alternative to tampons. After years of using tampons I was nervous to switch to a menstrual cup, but using a cup is super comfortable. I like that I only have this one thing, instead of boxes and boxes of tampons. I like the dot cup, diva cup, and the XO Flo from Glad Rags.
People tell me that their biggest barrier to purchasing a menstrual cup is that they are worried about cleaning it. They think it’s messy and gross. To be honest, I haven’t found it to be any less messy then changing a tampon. I feel that the menstrual cup is actually very easy to clean, transport, and store.
Tip # 2 – Switch to reusable pads
To combat the massive amounts of waste associated with pads, I’ve switched to reusable pads from Party In My Pants and Glad Rags. I love that the pads are comfortable, are absorbent, and are very easy to wash. I invested in one larger pad, one thong, and one pantyliner. If I wash them after each use I can make it through my period easily with these items.
How to wash? I soak my used reusable pad in my sink with laundry detergent, then hand wash using a Meliora stain remover stick (if necessary) and then I leave it out to dry. Sometimes I throw a reusable pad in my next load of laundry, but I try to be aware of my energy use and hang dry them when possible.
Tip # 3 – Use a reusable heating pad
Sometimes I get bad cramps when I am on my period, and a I would gobble down some pain meds to alleviate my symptoms. I’ve found that a reusable heating pad has really helped alleviate some of my discomfort. My mother found this amazing microwavable rice-stuffed turtle at a maker’s market in Oregon and gave it to me as a gift (thanks, Mom!) and that’s a great option for anyone who has cramping.
Other
I’ve recently heard good things about period panties and may give those a try when I feel that I need a switch. There are lots of other good options out there and I encourage you to give some zero waste period items a try!