Green Alternatives To The Cup
What if you #dontlovethecup? Are there other green alternatives?
Yes. There are!
Whether you’ve tried it and it didn’t work out or you don’t like the sound of it, that is OK. Coming from someone who has only used pads before, I sympathise that using a cup is a big change and adjustment. Our recent survey showed that close to 40% of menstruating people use pads. So, I’m guessing there’s a fair few who will feel this way.
If you want to make a change but not by the cup, then here’s a few alternatives which are healthy for the environment and for yourself.
Go Organic
Sanitary products made with organic cotton reduce a number of environmental and health impacts.
These products are produced with organic cotton (their certification ensures no pesticides are used which harm precious ecosystems, and this is a standard which mainstream brands do not have to adhere to) and are biodegradable (unlike 1 pack of mainstream pads holding the same amount of plastic as four plastic bags).
A note on the chemicals…
In 2015, the University of La Plata’s independent study revealed that 85% of tampons tested contained Glyphosate. This is an active dioxin found in weed killer and is classified to be “probably carcinogenic” by the World Health Organisation. Carcinogenic dioxins are often linked with endometriosis and has been shown to impact your immunity and reproductive hormones1.
Scary stuff, hey?! So, it is well worth making a switch to organic sanitary products. For yourself and the environment.
And as a side-note: reviews of organic pads affirm that they are highly absorbent and feel fresh.
Totm and Organyc seem like good starting places if you’re interested. The whole manufacturing process, from farm to packaging, is organic. The only disadvantage I can see is continual purchasing and transport costs on the environment and for yourself.
Cloth Pads and Period Pants
Using cloth pads and period pants mean that you become in charge of your waste and how clean your products are. There is no issue of chemical harm and they are one-time purchases, saving you lots in the long run.
If you prefer to free flow, then they are a fantastic alternative. Their cleaning and maintenance is much easier than you would expect, usually consisting of an initial rinse in water and then a cold wash (in a delicates bag, which comes with your purchase) and an air dry.
Depending on your rate of flow, pants can hold as much as two pads. So that can be more helpful if you have a long day and no chance to change and deal with your used pad. Reviews affirm that these products are super absorbent and comfortable.
I hope this helps you along your journey towards a greener period!
We’d love to hear back from you with any recommendations, reviews or queries.
1. Truth about tampons - TOTM [Internet]. TOTM. 2017 [cited 30 October 2017]. Available from: https://www.totm.com/improving-lives-hub/truth-about-tampons/#section1
