Reusable vs single-use sanitary products: Which come out on top?

Why should I use reusable sanitary products?

Switching is not only beneficial for the planet, but your body. There are an estimated 3,000 harmful toxins in disposable sanitary towels. Chemicals such as bleach and fragrances can irritate your skin, which is also highly permeable and can easily absorb chemicals. This can lead to further issues, such as hormone disruption.

'Leak proof’ sanitary towels are often manufactured with plastic, meaning they trap heat, sweat and moisture, which could promote the growth of yeast and bacteria, leading to infections.

Not only this, but single-use sanitary products lead to mass waste. In the UK alone, we produce 200,000 tonnes of waste from menstrual products every year. Each pad is equivalent to five plastic bags and takes 800 years to decompose.

Reusable products also require less energy to be produced in contrast to single-use alternatives. On average, a woman spends £5,000 on sanitary products but you could reduce that massively by investing in quality reusable versions.

Which reusable sanitary products should I use?

Reusable cloth pads

Think of a normal pad, but made out of comfier, sturdier material and you have yourself a reusable pad. These come in different sizes and thickness, suitable for every flow, and often absorb more than a standard pad. Clean them easily by popping them straight in the washing machine after use.

Peace With The Wild

This website offers a great range of high-end to low cost period pads with options for every flow. They also have a range of patterns to choose from which makes that time of the month a little more fun.

Etsy

I also really like Etsy for finding eco-friendly products as not only are you supporting small businesses, but there is a wealth of choice. You can also shop around and find some very affordable options, such as the linked pads from ShazzyChic which start at just £2.50.

Period pants

These are my personal favourite reusable sanitary products. They are very comfortable, last a long time and are minimal fuss. Many brands, even Primark, have started making these and I recommend giving them a try. Again, just pop them in the wash once you’re done.

Primark

Shopping at Primark, a fast fashion brand, is by no means an eco-friendly choice, but not everyone (especially students) can afford the high prices of brands like Thinx. Primark period underwear is decent quality but does require changing if you have a heavy flow.

M&S

M&S has a great range of period knickers which won’t make you feel like a grandma when it's your time of the month. These styles are protective and comfortable whilst still being stylish, so you can feel your best.

Menstrual cups

You’ve probably seen a menstrual cup before and been a bit scared but – trust me – once you get used to them, they’re so easy to use.

As more and more people start to invest in reusable products, new designs and shapes are being created to account for the diversity of women’s bodies and needs – so if you want to invest in a menstrual cup, do some research to figure out which is best for you.

Mooncup

Mooncup is a well-known brand for reusable menstrual products and for good reason. It was a forerunner in the menstrual cup game and is a very high quality product. Whilst the £20 price tag may seem expensive, it will save you a lot of money in the long run.

Boots

Currently on offer, the Boots option is only £8.50 and offers a simple alternative to tampons.

If you’re nervous, I recommend starting out with some reusable pads or knickers before graduating to a menstrual cup on your eco-period journey.

Edited by Amy Mullen-Brown