Bee Sustainable: 3 sustainable solutions to period waste
Written by Julia Gralki. Photo courtesy of Envato Elements.
Zero waste goes all the way to waste-free period products. While buying new pads, tampons and liners every few months isn’t only wasteful, it is also expensive. By switching to zero waste period products, you can save some money and the planet.
Even if you’re not going all-in with the zero-waste lifestyle, making your menstrual hygiene more sustainable is something you should consider because disposable period products also contribute to our waste problem. In fact, a menstruating person will accumulate between 5 and 15 thousand pads and tampons over their lifespan. And they contain plastic, which does not degrade and will live in landfills for the next thousand years.
But waste is not the only reason why you should switch to zero-waste menstrual products. Like most conventional products, tampons and pads can be toxic. Tampons, for example, are known for causing toxic shock syndrome, a rare condition caused by an overgrowth of bacteria releasing toxins into the body. Toxic shock syndrome can be dangerous and even fatal.
Therefore, it’s better to stay safe and opt for non-toxic, sustainable options.
Zero-waste menstrual pads
Zero-waste menstrual pads can be washed and reused. You can buy them in different shapes and sizes to fit your underwear and body. Most zero-waste menstrual pads are made of natural fiber, which is a safe alternative to single-use pads. At the end of their lifespan, they can be composted.
It does take some time to get used to zero-waste menstrual pads, so feel free to try out different brands.
Zero-waste menstrual cups
Menstrual cups are made from medical silicone and are meant to replace tampons. They are also the most inexpensive alternative to conventional period products as they last many years. Compared to tampons, menstrual cups definitely take the win, as they do not cause toxic shock syndrome.
However, menstrual cups aren’t truly zero-waste because they cannot be recycled or composted. But nevertheless, they help keep tons of non-degradable waste from landfills.
When you buy your first menstrual cup, make sure to follow the following rules. Always wash your hands before inserting or removing the cup. While washing your hands, stay away from oil-based or fragranced soaps. After each period, sterilize your menstrual cup by boiling it for 5 to 10 minutes.
Zero-waste period underwear
As an alternative to menstrual cups and waste-free pads, you can treat yourself with zero-waste period underwear. They are just like regular underwear – plus a lining absorbing menstrual blood. Compared to menstrual cups and pads, period underwear is probably the most comfortable zero-waste period product. You can pop them into the washing machine like any other underwear; just make sure to rinse them with cold water after use.
The only downside of period underwear is that it might not be fully compostable at the end of its lifespan. When you buy your period underwear, check the materials and make sure to buy the ones with the highest percentage of compostable fibers. At the end of their life cycle, you might have to separate the compostable layers from the synthetic ones to dispose of the underwear.
Final thoughts
You can also combine the menstrual cup with zero-waste menstrual pads or period underwear. That way, you make them even safer and reduce the risk of period accidents. If you’re unsure which product is the right one for you, feel free to test them out.
While there isn’t the perfect zero-waste period product, all the above-mentioned solutions move in the right direction. They cut down on waste ending up in landfills and help you save money.
