Beauty 2411 views

Deplastify your period

Zwoice . Aug 7, 2020
Pink reusable menstrual cup, cup cleaner and a floral washable menstrual pad in a carton box decorated with yellow floral paper lying on a wooden table surrounded by flowers.

Plastic pervades modern life, and menstruation is no exception, as the materials used to manufacture the most commonly used period products nowadays come from the petroleum industry and forestry.

It is easy to see. Tampons are wrapped in plastic foils, encased in plastic applicators, with plastic strings dangling from one end, and a thin layer of plastic in their absorbent part. Pads generally incorporate even more plastic, from the leak-proof base through the synthetics that soak up fluid to the packaging; every single one of them bears about the same amount of crude oil plastic as four plastic bags. That is a hell of a lot of plastic right there. But it is not it.

Add to it that most women will menstruate for about 40 years in total, bleeding for five days a month, which equals to a staggering six and a half years of their lives. The numbers leave us with an average lady using up to 12,000 disposable period products, over the course of her lifetime, each of which takes at least 500 years to degrade? No surprise that pads and tampons are the 5th most common beach waste.

It’s true, plastic is in no way fantastic!

Our planet is not the only one impacted, because there is a very fine line between polluting production practices, nasty ingredients and our health.

Notably, synthetics in feminine hygiene products restrict airflow, trap heat and dampness, hence disturbing the vaginal pH and potentially promoting yeast and bacterial growth in the vaginal area. Additionally, the application of a tampon may cause micro-tears in the vaginal walls, allowing the bacteria to accumulate and leading to a higher risk of a life-threatening condition called the toxic shock syndrome.

Traditional period products also contain other potentially toxic ingredients, such as conventionally grown cotton full of pesticides, genetically modified organisms, chlorine bleach, as well as odour neutralizers and fragrances heavily packed with polyester, adhesives, polyethylene, polypropylene, propylene glycol, and artificial colours, contaminants linked to hormone disruption, cancer, birth defects, dryness and infertility.

This is no good news, you know why? Well, because our skin is the largest, thinnest and one of the most permeable organs in our body, especially in and around the vaginal area, meaning that anything coming in contact with it will end up in our bloodstream for distribution throughout the body, directly reaching the organs and accumulating, as we typically lack the necessary enzymes to break them down.

Several unpacked synthetic tampons, placed as if swimming on a dark, sea-like background.

“Something magical happens when you realise what's not working and let go.”

It does not matter if you are more of a disposable pads or tampons user; nowadays there are equally reliable reusable alternatives available to collect menstrual blood. Be it ultra-absorbent menstrual pads, leak free period panties or a long-lasting invisible menstrual cup, be prepared for a positive change in the way you manage your period, because they are better for your body, the planet and your wallet than traditional sanitary products, and also, so much more convenient. What exactly makes them so great? Well, there is no doubt that they are:

Safe

Contrary to their invasive synthetic ancestors, reusable menstrual products are closer to nature and thus made of non-toxic, hypoallergenic and odour-neutralising ingredients, such as non-dyed organic cotton, bamboo or charcoal in case of pads and panties and a soft medical-grade silicone when it comes to menstrual cups, which makes them all free from allergy-prone, as well as carcinogenic plastics, toxins and bleaches.

Ecological

Long-lasting, washable and reusable mean these products will last for up to 10 years, so thanks to just a handful of them, you will not be leaving those 12,000 pieces of sanitary waste behind you anymore.

Affordable

The cost of a reusable menstrual cup or a set of washable menstrual pads is equal to the cost of 6 months worth of traditional period product supplies. It gets slightly higher when opting for period panties, but still, imagine all those savings adding up to 6 years worth of period product supplies, yay.

Convenient

No more tampons or runaway pads to accidentally fall out with your wallet, no more planning ahead and regularly shopping for disposable period products, and no more urgently searching for them on your trips. You have your set of cute washable pads, discreet panties or a simple cup and that is all you need for the next 10 years.

In particular, the menstrual cup is great for busy and active lifestyles, as it has three times the capacity of a super tampon and can be worn for up to 12 hours, depending on the strength of your flow. No more visits to the toilet in 3-4 hour intervals, no more embarrassing menstrual odour wafting out at the most inopportune times either, since the fluid does not get exposed to air as it does with pads and tampons, and last but not least, forget about those gross, pee soaked tampon strings popping out to make appearances at the pool or beach. You will not even notice you have it; it is invisible, allows you to exercise freely with no worries about leaking or showing, and also to finally sleep through the night.

Easy to use

The swap towards reusable menstrual products is a piece of cake and does not even require a change of habits when it comes to washable pads or period panties. You simply snap or put them on, change them regularly, add to your laundry when used, instead of tossing them to a bin and enjoy all the abovementioned benefits they have to offer.

A menstrual cup might feel like more of a change, but rest assured that anyone who has used tampons, especially the kind without applicators, should have little trouble getting used to it. For those who have not, here is a quick guide with all you need to know about how to use a menstrual cup:

  • Always start by washing your hands.
  • Make the cup wet, as it is much easier to insert that way.
  • Fold it and gently insert the folded cup into your vagina, tilting it back to the base of your spine and giving it a little push. The cup should sit as low as it comfortably can inside your vagina, normally lower than a tampon but with the stem fully inside.
  • When the cup is inside, it wants to pop open, creating a light suction. The suction is how the cup prevents leaks, so use your finger to check if it is fully unfolded. Twist or rotate the cup if you need to. When inserted properly, you should not feel its presence at all.
  • Wash your hands and use it for up to twelve hours.
  • With clean hands, gently pull the stem of the cup downwards until you can reach and hold the base of the cup. Pinch the base to release the suction, use your pelvic muscles if needed and gently take it out.
  • When you have got your cup, empty it in the toilet or while showering, and rinse it with water. If you do not have access to water, you can wipe it with some tissue or simply reinsert it right after emptying it. But make sure to rinse it at your next available opportunity.
  • After each cycle, sterilize the cup using boiling water.

That’s it! So what do you think? Is it time for change?

Pink and blue menstrual cups on a white tray, next to vase with fresh flowers.

Related products

Reusable menstrual cup - 1 Reusable menstrual cup - 1 2
Product available with different options
Intimate

Reusable menstrual cup

€26.00
The reusable and washable silicone menstrual cup is an evolution for women. It saves your money and health by helping you to avoid disposable plastic pads and bleached tampons. Our pack contains a cup, a pouch to store it, a cloth slip pad, and a cleaning powder for the cup. The S size is meant to fit girls and women who did not give birth yet; while L is...
View
Reusable menstrual pads - 5 pack - 1 Reusable menstrual pads - 5 pack - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Reusable menstrual pads - 5 pack

€41.00
Reusable pads are a great eco-friendly alternative to disposable synthetic period products. This starter set is composed of three daily pads and two slip pads. The daily menstrual pads have three absorbing organic cotton layers and one non-leak layer. The slip pads, composed of a single organic cotton and a leak-proof layer, are best to use in the last...
Ruby cup - starter pack - 4 Ruby cup - starter pack - 4 2
Available
Intimate

Ruby cup - starter pack

€59.85
Want to learn how to use a menstrual cup? Our starter kit is perfect for beginners and has everything you will need to succeed: 1x small ruby cup, 1x medium ruby cup, and 1x ruby clean sterilising cup. Additionally, two ruby cups will be donated on your behalf to someone without access to reliable period products.
Washable menstrual cup - 1 Washable menstrual cup - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Washable menstrual cup

€19.90
Disposable feminine sanitary products are no longer a compulsory choice. This reusable menstrual cup is an innovative and ecological alternative, kind to your body and the environment. It can be reused for ten years, is entirely chemical-free, made of hypoallergenic medical platinum silicone, takes little space, is easy to use, and holds up to eight...
3-pack reusable menstrual pads - 1
Available
Intimate

3-pack reusable menstrual pads

€15.99
A washable cloth pad is the perfect healthy and sustainable alternative to synthetic disposable menstrual pads. It feels comfortable to wear, has a great absorption capacity and is made of certified organic cotton flannel, reinforced with a thin layer of certified PUL, making it leak-proof. Position the printed side facing up towards the skin and easily...
Reusable menstrual cup - clear - 1 Reusable menstrual cup - clear - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Reusable menstrual cup - clear

€28.95
For every cup you buy, we donate another one to a girl in need. This menstrual cup is a healthier, more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. You would use up to 12,000 disposable period products in your lifetime, so swapping to a menstrual cup, reusable up to 10 years dramatically reduces your impact on the environment....
3-pack washable menstrual pads - slim - 1 3-pack washable menstrual pads - slim - 1 2
Available
Intimate

3-pack washable menstrual pads - slim

€15.99
These soft reusable cloth pads are perfect for the active ladies, as they feels comfortable to wear, have a great absorption capacity and allows adjusting to the movement of your body. They are made of 100% organic cotton jersey and reinforced with a thin layer of certified PUL making them leak proof on days with normal flow. You can easily attach them...
Reusable menstrual cup - red - 1 Reusable menstrual cup - red - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Reusable menstrual cup - red

€28.95
For every cup you buy, we donate another one to a girl in need. This menstrual cup is a healthier, more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. You would use up to 12,000 disposable period products in your lifetime, so swapping to a menstrual cup, reusable up to 10 years dramatically reduces your impact on the environment....
Reusable menstrual cup - purple - 1 Reusable menstrual cup - purple - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Reusable menstrual cup - purple

€28.95
For every cup you buy, we donate another one to a girl in need. This menstrual cup is a healthier, more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. You would use up to 12,000 disposable period products in your lifetime, so swapping to a menstrual cup, reusable up to 10 years dramatically reduces your impact on the environment....
Period wet bag - 1
Available
Intimate

Period wet bag

€8.99
No more unorganized chaos in your bag! This small-sized reusable and machine washable wet bag has been designed to store your clean or used (one bag for each) cloth pads, tampons or breast pads until you are ready to put them in the washing machine. It is made of Oeko-Tex certified BPA-free, lead-free and PVC-free polyurethane laminated polyester. Makes a...
Organic sitz bath blend - 2 Organic sitz bath blend - 2 2
Available
Intimate

Organic sitz bath blend

€18.75
This is a paper bag containing 200 grams of a balanced blend of Himalayan salt and seven dried organic herbs and flowers: plantain leaf, yarrow, chamomile, hamamelis, marigold, shepherd’s purse, and lavender. This blend is typically used for sitz baths, meant to alleviate discomfort in the lower belly area and perineum, caused by infections, menstrual...
Clear menstrual cup cleaner, with cover, on a red background. Clear menstrual cup cleaner, with cover, on a red background. 2
Available
Intimate

Menstrual cup cleaner

€14.95
Our menstrual cup cleaner is a great accessory for disinfecting it between your periods. It can handle high temperatures and is easily used in the microwave. It’s foldable and fits in any small bag or pocket, so you can easily bring it with you anywhere. All variants are registered with the Vegan Society.
Feminine organic cleanser - 1 Feminine organic cleanser - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Feminine organic cleanser

€3.75
Designed specifically for the intimate area, for its pH of 4.5 and for its richness in organic goat yogurt and sage extract, both great allies to help maintain the balance of this area, in addition to the macerate of organic chamomile and calendula, in extra virgin olive oil and a droplet of lavender essential oil, which can be applied undiluted directly...
Reusable menstrual cup - black - 1 Reusable menstrual cup - black - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Reusable menstrual cup - black

€28.95
For every cup you buy, we donate another one to a girl in need. This menstrual cup is a healthier, more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. You would use up to 12,000 disposable period products in your lifetime, so swapping to a menstrual cup, reusable up to 10 years dramatically reduces your impact on the environment....
Reusable menstrual cup - pink - 1 Reusable menstrual cup - pink - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Reusable menstrual cup - pink

€28.95
For every cup you buy, we donate another one to a girl in need. This menstrual cup is a healthier, more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. You would use up to 12,000 disposable period products in your lifetime, so swapping to a menstrual cup, reusable up to 10 years dramatically reduces your impact on the environment....
Reusable menstrual cup - blue - 1 Reusable menstrual cup - blue - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Reusable menstrual cup - blue

€28.95
For every cup you buy, we donate another one to a girl in need. This menstrual cup is a healthier, more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to pads and tampons. You would use up to 12,000 disposable period products in your lifetime, so swapping to a menstrual cup, reusable up to 10 years dramatically reduces your impact on the environment....
Ruby cup - sister pack - 1 Ruby cup - sister pack - 1 2
Available
Intimate

Ruby cup - sister pack

€47.90
Save money with our two cup sister pack offer. You may choose to either buy both sizes so that you are covered for both your light and heavy days or get a spare cup of the same size to keep in your out and about bag. Some people get a sister pack to share the expenses with a friend. Thanks to your purchase two cups will be donated to girls and women in...
Four kegel trainers next to each other, alternating blue and purple colors. Four kegel trainers next to each other, alternating blue and purple colors. 2
Available
Intimate

Kegel trainer

€15.95
Ruby kegel trainer is an exerciser for pelvic floor muscles, made of premium quality medical grade silicone. Kegel exercises are recommended for women with weak pelvic floor muscles, women who have just given birth or women who experience incontinence. Every purchase supports our social mission to promote a healthy body image, a higher self-esteem and...
Red cherry stone pillow, vertically placed on a white background. Red cherry stone pillow, vertically placed on a white background. 2
Available
Accessories

Cherry stone pillow

€19.95
The cherry stone therapeutic pillow is the perfect solution for cramps, your painful neck, sore muscles, fussy baby, pain or cold feet and a natural vegan alternative to a hot-water bag. Thanks to a combination of moist heat and a subtle cherry aroma, it is the ultimate muscle relaxer and stress reducer. Simply heat it up in a microwave, an oven or place...

You may also like

20 tips on how to greenify your Christmas

20 tips on how to greenify your Christmas

There is no time of the year more full of love, compassion and hope for the future than Christmas. But it is no secret that the days leading up to the holidays can become extremely busy. But it does not have to be that way. What about embarking upon one of the most exciting adventures of your life and bringing back the magic of Christmas by turning it into a zero waste holiday this year? read more
Events
20+ ways to reduce your digital carbon footprint

20+ ways to reduce your digital carbon footprint

An eye-opener on what causes the surprisingly huge carbon footprint of the internet, accompanied by tips on  what concrete simple steps can each and every one of us take to reduce digital pollution.  read more
Digital
Zero waste All Saints' Day

Zero waste All Saints' Day

A true heartfelt thought can bring us closer to those we once loved than a shining lantern. It should not matter if we decorate the gravestone with adornments bigger and brighter than those of the neighbors. What makes a real difference are our memories. And guess what, those create no waste whatsoever.  read more
Events
Movies and documentaries about the environment

Movies and documentaries about the environment

Selection of educational, eye-opening and inspirational movies and documentaries linked in one way or another to the environment.  read more
Other
Eco-friendly diapering

Eco-friendly diapering

By choosing reusable diapers for your child, you will not only generate 240x less waste and avoid contributing to groundwater pollution, your choice will also reduce your CO2 emissions and keep the little one away from harmful chemicals, while eventually spending at least 5x less money, even if you only use the reusables for one child. read more
Beauty
Deplastify your period

Deplastify your period

Plastic pervades modern life, and menstruation is no exception. Did you know that an average woman uses up to 12,000 disposable period products, over the course of her lifetime, each of which takes at least 500 years to degrade? No surprise that pads and tampons are the 5th most common beach waste. read more
Beauty
The good old hanky

The good old hanky

Did you know that paper tissues are not made through environmentally safe processing practices? Pulp and paper manufacturing is the third greatest emitter of CO2. Have you ever looked at the list of ingredients on your paper tissue box? You should. And last, but not least, are you aware that not only their plastic packaging, but also the used paper tissues themselves cannot be recycled? read more
Fashion
DIY zero waste cleaning products

DIY zero waste cleaning products

Simple recipes to make your own natural homemade cleaning products. With these quick and easy DIY tips, it now only takes a handful of easy to find organic ingredients and a few spare minutes to manufacture your own zero waste cleaning supplies. read more
Cleaning
Why switching to an all natural deodorant?

Why switching to an all natural deodorant?

Why are conventional deodorants harmful? What is in that fresh scent we are swiping on our underarms each day? And why aren’t we sweating? read more
Beauty
Make your own laundry detergent

Make your own laundry detergent

Discover why is it best for your health, clothes, washing machine and the environment to make your own natural laundry detergent. Includes a simple recipe that only requires a handful of easy to find ingredients and a few spare minutes to prepare. read more
Cleaning
Natural toothpaste recipe

Natural toothpaste recipe

We take for granted that toothpaste is safe to put in our mouth, but is it really? Have you ever wondered why is it not recommended for children to use until they are able to spit it out? And what about those 1.5 billion toothpaste tubes ending in landfills each year? read more
Beauty
Say "no" to disposable wipes

Say "no" to disposable wipes

Disposable wipes have conquered the world in just a few years. They have found their way into numerous homes, schools and handbags. But, are they as safe and convenient as we are told? read more
Beauty
Product added to wishlist

We use cookies to improve website functionality, analyse our traffic and provide you with a better browsing experience.
By using our website or clicking on "Accept", you consent to the use of cookies. Learn more.