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I don’t know about you gals but I am totally over disposable menstrual products. Pads and tampons are just not it anymore. Especially after learning all the toxic chemicals inside some of these products on the market today. I am here to introduce you to reusable menstrual underwear, or period panties.
Conventional Period Products
If you are just finding out that disposable pads and tampons are toxic, better late than never. We should all be outraged that these ingredients come in direct contact with the most sensitive skin on our bodies. Shame on the companies creating these products and shame on the regulations (or lack thereof).
According to WomensVoices.org, “testing of tampons and menstrual pads have found pesticide residue, parabens and phthalates linked to hormone disruption, antibacterial chemicals like triclosan, and various carcinogens including styrene and chloroform”.
We should be protecting our own health by staying as far away from these products as possible. There are better options out there.
Reusable Menstrual Underwear
While there are other types of reusable menstrual products on the market, like reusable pads and menstrual cups, I personally believe period underwear are far superior. Let me explain why.
To start, period panties are EASY. No need to carry around pads for when your flow starts. No need to be uncomfortable when the pad is all bunched up or moves out of place. And definitely no uncomfortable cup sitting inside you that you have to empty and rinse (seriously, who thought of this?). Just throw your period underwear on for the day and you are set.
Reusable menstrual underwear come in all shapes and sizes from boxer shorts to thongs, we have options.
You can wear period underwear for up to 12 hours. No fuss, no mess. Just toss them in the washing machine (in cold water) like you would any other article of clothing. It doesn’t get easier than that.
Period Panties
While many companies have failed us in the world of feminine hygiene products, these incredible brands have gone above and beyond to provide us with a quality product SAFE for daily use.
There are some really good options out there when it comes to period underwear. A personal preference of mine is something sleek (not bulky like pads), absorbent, and comfortable. These brands do that.
The Period Company
So many things to highlight with The Period Company. For one, they believe “periods are a superpower”. Not a burden. That being said, let’s get into some awesome features of their great products.
Material
These panties are made with 95% OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton and zero toxicity. Directly from their website “our patent-pending four layer absorbency soaks up a full day of blood.” The design is leak proof even on those heavy flow days.
absorbency
These reusable menstrual underwear are categorized by absorbency levels on their website. Choose from heavy, medium, light, or overnight. They even offer reusable cloth pads, as backup, in case you need them.
cost
These comfortable undies are extremely cost effective. Actually, they might be the lowest priced on the market. As low as $9 a pair.
style
- The Sleeper Period in Black
- Merchant:The Period Company
- Price: $24.00
- The Heavy Period High Waisted in Black
- Merchant:The Period Company
- Price: $12.00
They come in a variety of sizes for both adults and juniors. Choose from styles such as boxer, bikini, high waisted, extra coverage, sporty, or thong. They even offer a swim version, which we love.
Boody
Boody is an underwear brand made from organically-grown bamboo viscose. These regular underwear have no frills, just a classic seamless panty that is just straight-up comfortable. Did I mention they have period underwear?
Material
The bamboo material is, most importantly, non-toxic. Boody underwear is OEKO-TEX certified because bamboo naturally needs no fertilizers or pesticides. It's also breathable, moisture wicking, and soft.
absorbency
Their leak-proof underwear come in all different sizes and are perfect for any menstrual flow. Decide between light, moderate, heavy, and even replace your overnight pads with their overnight underwear. Or don't choose and get one of each.
On those heavy days this pair holds "up to 3 regular tampons, up to 4 regular pads, or 15ml." And for those light days you can get away with this pair that absorbs 1 tampon worth.
cost
A single pair costs between $25-$35. Boody notes the useful life of each pair ranging between 20-30 washes.
style
As I mentioned above, these underwear are basic staples, no styles or designs. All black, brief or bikini fit.
Revol Cares
From eco-friendly materials to responsible production this brand strives to meet the highest standards. Take their quiz to figure out the best pair for you during that time of the month.
Material
Revol panties are made with natural materials that are Oeko-Tex Certified. A combination of bamboo and organic cotton, these super absorbent material are bound together with a heat based process that requires no solvents or glues.
absorbency
The owner of this company, who has heavy periods, found that many products failed her. That being said, she has designed these to support the heaviest flows: featuring super, super plus, and ultra. Also available in light and regular.
cost
A single pair will cost you anywhere from $35 to $55.
style
The style possibilities are (almost) endless here. Designs include mesh and lace, thong and box briefs, the list goes on. As a bonus, the sizes are super inclusive ranging from XXS to 7X.
Environmental Impact
Our monthly cycle isn't something we need to stress. It can be easy with reusable menstrual underwear or other reusable products.
By choosing reusable, over disposable products, we are reducing our carbon footprint and lowering our environmental impact. According to HealthCity.org, the average menstruating women can use up to 9,000 tampons or pads over the course of their lifetime. That is a lot of single-use waste sitting in the landfill on our behalf.
If you aren’t already using reusable menstrual underwear, this is your sign to start. Kiss disposable menstrual pads and tampons goodbye.
Regardless of the brand you decide to go with make sure you do the research, make sure they are free from “forever chemicals” like PFAS and other harmful chemicals. This is a planet sustaining choice you won’t regret making.