Traditional feminine care products are often designed for single use, made of plastics, or cosmetically bleached. Considering menstruation happens frequently, this produces a lot of waste, and is not environmentally or physically healthy. Luckily, there are sustainable solutions that are better for the planet and your body. Here are a few reusable alternatives to try during your next monthly cycle.
1. Moon Pads
Often, we learn how to handle our period with whatever is available or given to us, like tampons and pads, and we never really give it a second thought. But, menstrual products produce a lot of waste and they are incredibly expensive, meaning reusing products reduces your footprint and saves you money! Ditch single use and make the swap to Moon Pads, the sustainable alternative to traditional feminine care products. They are machine washable, and become even more absorbent with every wash. Our Moon Pads are made with two layers of 100% cotton flannel and an anti-pill fleece backing. The polyester fleece goes against your clothes to create a barrier between the absorbent cotton and your clothes. They are 8 inches long and 4 inches wide at the widest point. These Mood Pads are more absorbent than a standard panty liner, but are intended to be used in combination with a menstrual cup or on lighter days.
2. Menstrual Cup
A Dot Cup, or menstrual cup, is another reusable solution, and can also pair with a Moon Pad for heavier days or extra protection. The Dot Cup is a medical-grade, silicone menstrual cup that can be worn for up to 12 hours and used for up to 10 years. Plus, every cup comes with a limited-edition, hand-sewn, canvas storage pouch. Simply fold the cup in a way that is comfortable to insert. When you’re ready, remove, empty into the toilet, rinse the cup, and reinsert for several hours of leak free protection. And, when you swap to a Dot Cup, you're actually purchasing two cups. For every Dot Cup purchased, one is given to a girl in need, allowing her to go to school or work and to be an active member of her community, regardless of her menstrual cycle. Learn how to fold your Dot Cup here.
3. Wet Bag
Keep your used Moon Pads and other dirty reusables in a Wet Bag, the perfect alternative to plastic bags. These bags are complete with an interior waterproof PUL lining to protect against leaks and for easy clean up. Add your reusables to the wash, and toss the wet bag in with it. It’s machine washable, and comes in tons of great colors and prints.
4. Shower Steamers
Nothing feels better than a shower after a long day on your period. Start your shower with Eucalyptus Shower Steamers, the perfect eco friendly aromatherapy. The cleansing vapors of eucalyptus are well known for deep support of respiratory health. These powerful steamers combine eucalyptus with concentrated cooling peppermint for an awakening and refreshing shower experience. Place one or two rounds in the shower in the direct stream of water. As the rounds get wet, they begin to dissolve and release potent essential oils into the hot shower steam. These shower steamers are the perfect way to relax, and let your body rest.
5. Heating Pad
Heat is a good way to relieve period pain, as it relaxes muscles and increases blood flow. Ease pain and cramps with a flaxseed Heating Pad. The flaxseed heating pack is made from muslin and can be removed, allowing you to wash the 100% cotton flannel cover. Simply heat the pad in the microwave, or keep in the freezer for aching muscles. Choose your favorite print, and this heating pad will be a period essential.
6. Reusable Tea Bags
Sometimes, when we’re tired, sore, and bloated, a good cup of warm tea does the trick. But, tea bags actually aren’t very environmentally friendly. Single use tea bags often contain plastics, chemicals, and glue from production, which isn’t healthy to ingest. Try a Reusable Tea Bag, handmade with 100% Organic Unbleached Linen and a great sustainable solution for relaxing with that perfect cup of tea. Fill with your favorite herbs for a custom cup. The cotton thread and cord ensures a long life, and a plastic free sipping experience. Just boil your tea bags periodically to clean.
Menstruation calls for self care, but while we’re at it why not care for the environment too? Reusing products and making simple swaps is a great place to start. These are just a few alternatives for sustainable menstruation and self care. How else do you practice sustainability during your period? Reach out and let us know, we’d love to hear from you!
