Organic period underwear and menstrual cups have been hailed as eco-friendly alternatives to traditional menstrual products, which often come wrapped in plastic and contain harmful chemicals. However, recent reports have raised concerns about the safety of some period underwear brands. For example, Thinx, the first and most well-known period underwear brand, was involved in a class action lawsuit due to the presence of PFOA chemical contaminants in their products. As much as 65% of the market may not be non-toxic.
Fortunately, there are a growing number of period underwear brands that are stepping up to the plate and providing organic, chemical-free options. Sustainable Jungle has independently researched and tested several of these brands to provide recommendations for the healthiest period underwear options on the market.
The Safest Period Underwear Brands…Period
When it comes to menstrual flow, comfort and health are top priorities. The Period Company offers affordable non-toxic period underwear, making sustainable and safe period care accessible to everyone. Modibodi’s all-gender and plus-size period underwear provides a wide range of sizes and styles for all body types. Both brands offer leak-proof protection, full coverage, and maximum absorbency for heavy flows. Other top contenders in the best period underwear category include Thinx, Saalt, Wuka, Knix, and TomboyX. Look for features like water-resistant layers, absorbent materials, and long-lasting durability.
Why Choose PFAS-Free Period Underwear?
Period underwear has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its reusable and sustainable nature. However, not all period underwear is created equal. Many conventional period underwear brands use synthetic materials treated with harmful chemicals, including PFAS. Here’s why choosing PFAS-free period underwear is important:
What are PFAS?
PFAS, or polyfluoroalkyl substances, are a family of man-made chemicals used in various products due to their effective water, oil, grease, and dirt repellent properties. They are commonly found in cleaning products, water-resistant fabrics, nonstick cookware, and personal care products. PFAS are also bioaccumulative, meaning they build up in the environment and in the bodies of humans and animals over time.
Health Concerns
PFAS have been linked to several human health problems, including asthma, cancer, endocrine disruption, increased cholesterol, and weight gain. Recent studies have also shown that PFAS may be a cause of infertility. These growing health concerns have prompted several countries and states to propose bans on PFAS.
PFAS in Period Underwear
Conventional period underwear brands often use synthetic materials treated with PFAS, which can be harmful to both the environment and the wearer. However, many organic period panty brands have begun making PFAS-free products. It’s important to note that just because a product is organic does not necessarily mean it is PFAS-free.
Sustainability and Eco-Friendliness
Choosing PFAS-free period underwear is not only better for your health, but it’s also more sustainable and eco-friendly. PFAS-free period underwear can be washed and reused, reducing waste and contributing to a zero-waste lifestyle. Additionally, many PFAS-free period underwear brands are certified by organizations like Oeko-Tex, which ensures that the products are free from harmful chemicals and contaminants.
In conclusion, choosing PFAS-free period underwear is an important step towards protecting your health and the environment. By opting for sustainable, non-toxic, and eco-friendly products, you can make a positive impact on both your body and the planet.
How We Chose The Best Organic Period Underwear Brands
Final Thoughts On Non-Toxic Period Underwear Brands
When it comes to choosing the best organic period underwear brands, there are several factors to consider. Uterus(t) has done extensive research to find the best options available in the market. Here are the factors that were taken into account while choosing the best organic period underwear brands.
Materials
The first and foremost factor that was considered while choosing the best organic period underwear brands is the materials used. Organic cotton is the most preferred choice for period underwear. However, it is still a rarity to find GOTS organic cotton period panties due to the complex nature of effective and sanitary absorbent layers. Therefore, brands that use non-toxic materials such as PFAS and PFOA-free synthetics, wool, hemp, bamboo, lyocell, or modal fabric were also considered.
Certifications
Certifications such as Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) and OEKO-TEX were taken into account while choosing the best organic period underwear brands. These certifications ensure that the products are made using sustainable and ethical practices.
Supply Chain & Labor Practices
The best organic period underwear brands are those that prioritize people over profit. Companies that have ethical labor practices and transparent supply chains were given preference.
Certifications such as Fair Trade, B Corporation, Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP), Fair Labor Association (FLA), and Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI) were taken into account while choosing the best organic period underwear brands.
Carbon Commitments & Green Practices
The best organic period underwear brands are those that take additional efforts to reduce their carbon footprint and waste. Brands that use recycled materials and carbon offset programs were given preference.
Inclusivity
The best organic period underwear brands are those that offer a large range of sizes and styles that demonstrate awareness that women aren’t the only people with a menstrual cycle. Inclusivity is an essential factor that was taken into account while choosing the best organic period underwear brands.
Community & Charitable Giving
The best organic period underwear brands are those that show initiative through action. Brands that help with women empowerment organizations were given preference.
When it comes to caring for non-toxic period underwear, gentle handwashing or eco-friendly machine washing using natural laundry detergent is recommended. Liquid fabric softeners should not be used, as they can permeate the absorbent gusset fabrics. Instead, non-chemical fabric softener alternatives should be used. Clothes dryers should never be used, and the underwear should be hung or laid flat to dry.
In conclusion, choosing the best organic period underwear brands requires a careful consideration of several factors. The brands that offer non-toxic materials, ethical labor practices, sustainable and green practices, inclusivity, and charitable giving were given preference. By investing in safe period underwear, individuals can honor their menstrual cycle and contribute to a sustainable future.
