If you're trying to reduce the waste you produce while on your period, reusable menstrual care products are the way to go. Switching from single-use items like tampons to a menstrual cup [1] might come to mind, and that's a fantastic option, but there are plenty of other reliable, eco-friendly products out there too.
Ahead, are eight items that'll help you make your period-care routine more sustainable. Another bonus? They'll probably save you some money in the long-run too.
Nixit Menstrual Cup
As Nixit explains, the Nixit Menstrual Cup [2] ($42) sits above the vaginal canal and under the cervix to collect fluid during your period. Because of where it's placed in the body, it doesn't require suction to stay in place, which may be appealing to someone who has an IUD. Unlike tampons, which should only be worn for up to eight hours, this period-care product can be worn for up to 12 hours. Not a bad option for nighttime, right?
Thinx re.t.a Tampon Applicator
Designed to be used with applicator-free tampons, the FDA-cleared, reusable Thinx re.t.a Tampon Applicator [3] ($60) could help you limit the amount of single-use plastic applicators you toss in the trash can each month. (Unfortunately, tampon applicators cannot be recycled.)
Rael Organic Cotton Reusable Panty Liners
Rael Organic Cotton Reusable Panty Liners [4] ($30 for three pads) stay in place via fabric wings that snap together and can be washed after every use.
Saalt Menstrual Cup
Like many menstrual cups, the hypoallergenic Saalt Menstrual Cup [5] ($33) sits in the vaginal canal to collect menstrual fluid. This one cup can hold the equivalent of four tampons worth of fluid. Saalt also offers menstrual cups in a variety of different sizes to allow customers to find their perfect fit.
Aisle Maxi Pad
Prefer pads to tampons or menstrual cups? Go for a reusable version, like the Aisle Maxi Pad [6] ($19). These maxi pads absorb four tampons worth of fluid and snap in place via fabric wings. Just wash them when you're through.
Proof. Mesh Hipster Leakproof Underwear
Nowadays, you can find period underwear in several different sizes, colours, and prints, but we're really into the mesh detail on the Proof. Mesh Hipster Leakproof Underwear [7] ($39). This particular style is ideal for someone with a heavy period, as it can hold up to four tampons worth of fluid.
Knix Leakproof Classic One-Piece
Forgot to pack tampons for the pool? That's no problem when you have a period-proof bathing suit. The Knix Leakproof Classic One-Piece [8] ($105) is specifically designed to absorb fluid and prevent leaks, making lounging in the sun or splashing around in the water all the more enjoyable.
Thinx Training Shorts
Give leak-proof activewear a go during your next period workout with the Thinx Training Shorts [9] ($65). Available in black and kale, these shorts can absorb up to five tampons worth of fluid.