Let’s talk about something that half the population experiences, but rarely discusses openly: periods.
Periods are a natural part of life for billions of people, yet the conversation around them has long been clouded by stigma and silence.
Historically, menstrual care was rooted in practicality and accessibility (think cloths or absorbent rags). But with the rise of mass marketing in the 20th century, periods were packaged as a costly problem. Mainstream products promised to hide, mask, and sanitize a perfectly normal process, reinforcing a cycle of shame and disposability.
Thankfully, we're entering a new chapter. People are speaking up, embracing period positivity, and demanding better for their bodies and the Earth.
This shift has given rise to a new wave of sustainable period products, made with natural materials, designed for comfort, and built to last. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by menstrual cup talk or curious about alternatives to waste-heavy pads, you're in the right place. This guide will walk you through the best options for every flow, lifestyle, and budget.
The Problem: Periods Cost a Lot (In More Ways Than One)
A lifetime supply of pads or tampons doesn’t come cheap. It’s estimated that the average menstruating person spends over $6,000 on menstrual products in their lifetime. This cost doesn’t even factor in pain relief, new underwear, or convenience buys when your period shows up unexpectedly.
On top of that, access to period care isn’t universal. In the U.S. alone, two in five people struggle to afford period products each year. Supporting organizations, advocating for policy change, and normalizing a variety of options helps create a future where everyone can manage their cycle with dignity and choice.
So while we acknowledge it’s not accessible for everyone, if you can afford the upfront costs, sustainable period products save you hundreds of dollars over time. You could even donate reusable options to a women’s shelter or organisation too!
The Environmental Impact of Period Products
It’s not just your wallet that takes a hit, so does the planet. Conventional menstrual products create a staggering amount of waste:
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One person using disposable period products will use up to 11,000 pads or tampons in their lifetime.
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Most pads are made of up to 90% plastic.
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Tampons are typically wrapped in plastic and have plastic applicators.
The result? An estimated 20 billion pads, tampons, and applicators are sent to landfills in North America each year. These single-use items can take 500–800 years to decompose.
Let’s explore some of the best reusable period products available today.
Browse the full collection here.
The 10 Best Sustainable Period Products For Comfort, Cost, and Impact
You don’t have to go straight to a menstrual cup (unless you want to!). There are plenty of natural period products that offer the same feel and familiarity as disposables, just without the waste. Whether you prefer pads, tampons, or underwear, there’s a reusable match for everyone.
Let’s break down the most accessible, comfortable, and eco-conscious menstrual products to try.
Best Menstrual Cups
Menstrual cups are flexible silicone cups inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid. They can be worn for up to 12 hours and reused for years.
Why People Love Them:
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Long-lasting (5–10 years!)
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Can hold more than tampons
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Reduces period waste by up to 99%
Common Concerns:
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Insertion and removal can take practice
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Not recommended immediately after childbirth
Top Picks:
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Saalt Regular Silicone Menstrual Cup Duo Pack
Great for beginners or anyone who wants a backup.
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Saalt Menstrual Cup
Soft and ergonomic with medical-grade silicone.
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Menstrual Disc
Designed for comfort and mess-free period sex.
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Best Resuable Pads
Reusable period pads look and feel like regular pads but are made with absorbent fabric and a moisture barrier. After use, you rinse or soak, then wash and dry.
Why People Love Them:
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Soft, breathable, and chemical-free
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Great for people with sensitivities
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Can be used for years with proper care
Common Concerns:
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Requires rinsing or washing
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May shift slightly if not snapped correctly
Top Picks:
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Reusable Pad with Carrying Pouch
A great starter option for day use.
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Reusable Day Pad
Compact, leak-resistant, and easy to clean.
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Reusable Thong Pantyliner
Perfect for light days or backup for a cup.
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Reusable Night Pad
Designed for overnight comfort and maximum absorbency.
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Best Period Underwear
Period underwear looks just like your favorite pair of undies, but with hidden layers of absorbent, leak-proof fabric built in. Plus, they don’t have to be grandma knickers! There are plenty of different comfy and cute options. Depending on the style, they can hold up to four tampons' worth of fluid.
Why People Love Them:
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No shifting, leaking, or awkward pads
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Great for travel, school, or overnight use
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Can be worn solo or as backup with other products
Common Concerns:
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May take time to find your preferred fit/absorbency
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Need to be rinsed and washed
Top Picks:
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Saalt Period Underwear High Waist Brief
Sleek, high-waisted comfort with full coverage.
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Saalt Period Underwear Thong
Minimal and comfy for light days.
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Comfort Boyshort Leakproof Underwear
Great for heavy days or overnight wear.
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Final Thoughts
Periods are natural, nd your period products should be too! By switching to sustainable period products, you’re choosing comfort, empowerment, and a better future for the planet. From natural period products like reusable pads to high-tech period underwear, there’s an option for everyone.
Explore EarthHero’s full menstrual collection to find the products that support you through every cycle, naturally.
