4 Plastic Free Alternatives For Your Period
Having your period is often seen as a burden. We prefer to get rid of it as quickly as possible. Then we can do what we feel like doing again. Yet there is also a positive side about the period that we know little about. To make your period more comfy, here are 4 Plastic free Alternatives for menstruation!
I saw this TED talk from Lucy Peach. This changed my entire perspective about my period. Having your period may be uncomfortable, but when we get to know our cycle, it can also bring something very positive!
By listening more to your body and taking more time for yourself, having your period suddenly becomes a whole lot more pleasant.
Before I share all tips to get through menstruation as comfortable as possible, I really recommend you to see the TED talk!
Understand your cycle
Understanding your body and your cycle is the first step to feel more comfortable during menstruation.
For example, you can keep track of your cycle with an app. I use Clue myself. In this app you can keep track of your cycle, mood, energy, emotions and much more.
Another small tip, the instagram account of Jip Isabel (@jipisabel). Jip shares a lot about female energy, self love, hormones & menstrual cycle.
In addition, I also have 4 plastic free and comfortable alternatives for during the period! And you also save money with it;)
Have an open mind
Some alternatives may sound crazy or unhygienic. However, all the alternatives that I have written here are hygienic. Of course it is important to take the time to clean the products. Do this as indicated.
Do Research
Also always try to research the products. There are a lot of reviews on YouTube that might take away some fears or doubts.
Menstrual Cup
The menstrual cup is a cup made of silicone. This product is a one-time investment and will last up to 10 years. The only waste that comes with it is the packaging that the cup comes in. They are often packed in cardboard instead of plastic! This is therefore an ideal option for a plastic free period.
How does it work?
Fold the cup in half. Then insert it in the same way as a tampon. Once the cup has been inserted, it is not necessary to look back for about 12 hours.
When the cup is full you can empty it in the toilet. Soak it in boiling water to clean it. After you can use it again.
For a detailed user guide and explanation about the menstrual cup, you can take a look At the website of Organicup!
Where available?
There are different brands that sell the cup, such as OrganiCup, DivaCup, MyCup, Practicups, First Greener, Nixit and many more.
I went for Organicup. This one has minimal packaging. You can also buy this at Kruidvat;)
If you order products online, it often comes with extra packaging. So try to visit stores! And take the bike;)
Reusable sanitary pads
When you have your period, everything is often more sensitive. Inserting a cup or tampon can be unpleasant. Reusable sanitary pads are also a good alternative! Washable sanitary pads do not irritate, brittle and feels soft.
I don’t use this myself. I am super happy with the Organicup! But, I have heard several good reviews!
How does it work?
With buttons you can clamp the sanitary pads around your underwear. After that it can be used as normal sanitary pads. If you need to change it, all you have to do is loosen the buttons and fold the sanitary pads so that you can put it away.
Often there is a waterproof bag with the sanitary pads. Here you can store the sanitary pads.
To clean them, rinse the sanitary pads with cold water. Then you can throw them in the washing machine. After washing you can simply use them again!
Where available?
There are various brands and stores that sell this, such as Cute Cotton, Katoen&Ko, Tante Rosa, LanaLuna, Plastic Free Amsterdam and Smir.
If you are looking for more information about the use of reusable sanitary pads, click here!
Period Panties
Period panties are special underpants that collect blood during your period. Because of these period panties you do not need any other menstrual products such as sanitary pads or tampons. They are comfy and you cannot see it through your clothes.
How does it work?
Period Pennie absorbs just as much blood as about 2 tampons. This depends on which period pantie you choose. You can wash them in the same way as washable sanitary pads. Pre-rinse with cold water, in the washing machine and allow to dry.
Where available?
Brands like Your M Time, Thinxs, Katoen&Ko and Nappy’s have very beautiful ones!
Bio tampons & sanitary pads
If you prefer to opt for single use products, then opt for biodegradable ones. This is of course better for the environment and therefore also for you. In addition, they reduce the risk of irritations and infections. Check whether they are free of chemicals!
Where available?
Brands like Yoni, NatraCare and SaNature. You can find them online or at the druggstore
I hope these tips help you understand your cycle better, use less plastic and of course make you feel more comfy during your period!
Share your experience, questions and tips in the comments! I am very curious!
If you have any questions or want to stay informed of all sustainable tips & inspiration, you can find me at Instagram (@emmawouterson), Pinterest and Facebook! Don’t forget to subscribe for the monthly newsletter. Totally free and no spam!!
Good Vibes,
Emma
