Try reusable sanitary products to save money and reduce the millions of sanitary items that go to landfill. The change might seem daunting, but they are easy to use and clean.
Choosing the right option for you
The brands, product and quantity of sanitary products you buy is up to you. Every woman is different, and you will know your cycle and incontinence needs better than anyone.
Reusable products are similar to disposable items (without the impact). Many women have been pleasantly surprised by the comfort of these products, the practicality, the cost saving and the environmental benefits.
Depending on your cycle, you will probably need between 6-12 cloth pads (plus night time pads and panty liners). Period and leak-proof underwear can often be worn all day (or night) so you will probably need fewer.
A period cup can stay in for up to 12 hours and can be washed and used again instantly so you will only need to buy one, maybe two.
Cost savings
With disposable sanitary products the cost per woman over her lifetime is approximately $5,000 ($10 per period with between 450-500 periods over a lifetime). With reusable sanitary products this cost is reduced, for example leak-proof underwear $12 to $30 each x 10 pairs = $120 to $300.
Depending on the brand or product you choose, the cost can vary.
- Sanitary pads - $12 to $20 each
- Menstrual cups - $20 to $60 for 1 cup
- Leak-proof underwear - $12 to $30 each
Using when out and about
Just as you take tampons with you to change throughout the day, you can take cloth pads or underwear to change. Stored used underwear and pads in a wet bag, which is designed to be water and odour resistant.
Washing - how to
Each brand of period underwear or cloth pads will have their own care instructions. Best practice for most brands is:
- Rinse after use in cold water
- Wash with your regular wash on the cold cycle, nothing over 30 degrees
- Air dry, no tumble drying
- Avoid harsh stain remover products, this can degrade the product technology
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There is a huge range of products available, including pads, underwear and cups.
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