The average person who menstruates will spend 3,500 days of their life with their cycle. Unfortunately, this also means 3,500 days of cramps, chocolate cravings, and period waste. Globally, over 12 billion menstrual products are disposed of annually, contributing to a significant amount of waste. Disposable period products have only been around since the 1880s, yet people have been menstruating for thousands of years. Before the age of disposable products, most people used rags, cotton, or sheep wool in their regular underwear to stem the flow of menstrual blood.
Thankfully, the period of zero waste products for periods is upon us once more as people are taking notes from the history book, ditching disposables, and going back to the basics with reusable period underwear brands. These eco-friendly, reusable period pads are gaining popularity and are becoming a stiff competition for disposable products. In this article, we will explore the benefits of sustainable period underwear and how it is contributing to reducing waste.
Plastic-Free Periods With These Eco-Friendly Period Underwear Brands
When it comes to period products, traditional options like pads and tampons can be wasteful and harmful to the environment. Luckily, there are now a variety of eco-friendly period underwear brands that offer a sustainable alternative. Here are some of the top options to consider:
1. The Period Company
The Period Company offers a range of plastic-free, gender-inclusive period underwear options that are both sustainable and effective. Their leak-proof period sleepwear shorts and panties have absorbency levels ranging from two to ten tampons, making them suitable for a range of flow levels. The High Waisted Period undies, in particular, are highly recommended for their extra overnight protection.
All of The Period Company’s period underwear is made with an OEKO-TEX-certified organic cotton body and leak-proof layers made of polyester and nylon. While their sporty styles use a patented nylon spandex knit, all fabrics are tested by a third-party company to ensure that no harmful chemicals like PFAS are present.
The company is also committed to inclusivity, with their period undies ranging from XS to 6XL and remaining affordable at just $9.
2. Modibodi
Modibodi is a well-known brand that offers a variety of eco-friendly period underwear options. Their triple-layer absorbent gusset is primarily made of ethical wool, with a touch of polyester, polyamide, and elastane. They also offer an entirely synthetic polybrush gusset for vegans. All of their products bear OEKO-TEX certification, guaranteeing them to be free of PFAS.
What sets Modibodi apart is their commitment to transparency in their business practices. They trace their supply chain all the way back to fiber creation and ensure that each of their BSCI-certified suppliers and factories agree to their code of conduct, which is based on ILO standards for fair working conditions.
Modibodi also has a range of sizes available, from 3XS to 6XL, and is committed to showcasing models of all ages, sizes, shapes, and ethnicities, without the use of Photoshop.
3. TomboyX
TomboyX is a non-binary clothing brand that offers a range of size and gender-inclusive period underwear options. Their absorbency levels range from 4 to 8 teaspoons worth of flow, making them suitable for light flow, heavy flow, and every day in between.
TomboyX’s First Line underwear is made of OEKO-TEX certified cotton, spandex, polyester, and TENCEL™, all fabrics that are free from cancer and infertility-causing PFOAs. They also incorporate organic and recyclable fabrics wherever possible and source from women-owned businesses.
In addition to being a Certified B Corp, TomboyX is committed to reducing their greenhouse gas emissions through carbon offsetting and garment recycling programs. They also package each order in biodegradable zipper bags.
4. Saalt
Saalt offers a range of eco-friendly period products, including period underwear. Their period panties are made with a blend of organic cotton and spandex and feature a leak-resistant lining. They also have a range of sizes available, from XS to 3XL.
Saalt is committed to sustainability and has a range of eco-friendly practices in place, such as using recycled and biodegradable packaging and offsetting their carbon emissions.
5. Cora
Cora is a well-known brand that offers biodegradable period panties that break down after 5 years of being planted in active soil. Their period panties are made with a blend of organic cotton and spandex and feature a leak-resistant lining. They also have a range of sizes available, from XS to 3XL.
Cora is also committed to giving back to the community and donates period products to those in need through their Cora Cares program.
6. WUKA
WUKA offers a range of period panties that are made with a blend of TENCEL™ and elastane. They also have a range of sizes available, from XS to 4XL.
WUKA is committed to sustainability and has a range of eco-friendly practices in place, such as using recycled and biodegradable packaging and offsetting their carbon emissions.
7. Boody
Boody offers a range of sustainable period panties that are made with a blend of bamboo viscose and elastane. They also have a range of sizes available, from XS to XL.
Boody is committed to sustainability and has a range of eco-friendly practices in place, such as using recycled and biodegradable packaging and offsetting their carbon emissions.
8. Aisle
Aisle is the #1 ranked B-Corp in the business and offers a range of size-inclusive period panties that don’t just support your flow, but that of menstruating folks everywhere by
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Why Choose Sustainable Period Panties?
Sustainable period panties are a great option for individuals looking for an eco-friendly and cost-effective alternative to disposable menstrual products. These panties are made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, bamboo viscose, and Tencel™ modal, which are biodegradable and do not contribute to landfill waste.
Additionally, sustainable period panties are reusable and can last for years, making them a more affordable option in the long run. They are also designed to be leak-proof and absorbent, providing extra protection during heavy flow days.
Furthermore, sustainable period panties are free from harmful chemicals such as PFAS, phthalates, and VOCs that are commonly found in disposable menstrual products. They are also Oeko-Tex® certified, ensuring that they are non-toxic and safe for use.
Inclusive language and designs are also a key feature of sustainable period panties, making them accessible to all individuals who menstruate. They come in a variety of sizes, prints, and styles to suit different preferences.
In summary, choosing sustainable period panties is a smart and responsible choice for individuals looking to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute to a healthier environment.
How We Found The Best Sustainable Period Underwear
When searching for the best sustainable period underwear, there are several factors to consider. The materials used in the production of the underwear are crucial, as they can affect the wearer’s health and the environment. The supply chain and labor practices of the manufacturer also play a significant role in determining the sustainability of the product. Additionally, green business practices, inclusivity, and charitable giving are also essential considerations.
Materials
The healthiest period underwear is made from sustainable, PFAS-free materials. Natural fabrics, such as organic cotton, bamboo, and hemp, are the ideal choices. These fabrics are not only good for the environment but also reduce the risk of vaginal, urinary tract, and yeast infections. Semi-synthetics, such as lyocell and modal, as well as recycled materials, are also acceptable choices. Certifications such as OEKO-TEX, Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), and Ecocert can help identify sustainable materials.
Supply Chain and Labor Practices
The best sustainable period underwear manufacturers prioritize basic human rights, including fair living wages and working hours and a safe and healthy work environment. Third-party manufacturing certifications, such as Fair Trade, B Corporation (B Corp), Fair Labor Association (FLA), Social Accountability International (SA8000), Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP), Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), International Labor Organization (ILO), ISO9001, and ISO14001, can help ensure ethical supply chain and labor practices.
Green Business Practices
Sustainability is a subjective term, and manufacturers have different approaches to it. However, conscious packaging, carbon offsetting, energy-saving practices, and specific emission reduction targets are some of the green business practices that can make a difference in the sustainability of the product.
Inclusivity
Inclusivity is an essential consideration when it comes to sustainable period underwear. No one should be denied the opportunity to use eco-friendly period products based on their size, background, or ethnicity. The best manufacturers make sure their products are inclusive and accessible to everyone.
Charitable Giving
The best sustainable period underwear manufacturers donate money, time, and sustainable products to organizations working towards improving the environment and ending period poverty. By supporting these organizations, manufacturers can make a positive impact on the planet and society.
Final Thoughts On Ethical Period Underwear
When it comes to sustainable period underwear, there are several factors to consider. By prioritizing sustainable materials, ethical supply chain and labor practices, green business practices, inclusivity, and charitable giving, manufacturers can create products that are good for the wearer and the planet. It is essential to do the research and choose the best sustainable period underwear that aligns with your values and needs.
