Period Products
Essential items to deal with periods will add up over a lifespan, but there are alternatives
View all products
Why Swap
- Up to two billion sanitary products are flushed every year in the UK
- Nearly 27,938 used tampons and applicators are collected on beaches around the world every day
- Mainstream single-use menstrual products generate 200 thousand tonnes of waste per year, and can take more than 500 years to break down, which has a huge negative impact on the environment
The Alternatives
For many people, disposable sanitary products have been the norm, with single-use tampons and pads being disposed of in their billions every year in the UK alone. Unfortunately many of the mainstream options not only include plastic, but materials like bleached wood pulp, fragrances and plasticizers. Toxic chemicals like these aren't just damaging to wildlife – they can create hormone-disrupting effects. Opting for reusable period products like menstrual cups, cloth pads and period pants can save money, reduce waste and lead to fewer mad dashes to shop when you run out unexpectedly.
Disposable Period Products
If you do buy disposable, opt for plastic-free products made using 100% organic cotton use much fewer chemicals in the production process compared to regular cotton. Organic certification means no pesticides or fertilisers can be used in the growing process.
Plastic-free
Organci
Reusable
Menstrual Cups
Switching to a reusable option like a menstrual cup or reusable cloth pads reduces single-use wastage and can prevent the need for a last minute rush to the shops. Simply wash and leave to dry before using again.
Plastic-free
Organic
Reusable
Period Pants
A worn option like period pants can be easier as it's simply part of your daily dressing routine, and reduces any extra fuss or procedure. There are lots of well-known brands now with stylish options. For the greenest options, look for organic cotton and other natural materials. For more info about how to reduce the impact of your clothing check out our Wardrobe space page.
Plastic-free
Organic
Reusable