Have you been doom-scrolling lately? It's impossible to reach the bottom of any social media feed without stumbling across some truly spooky statistics about climate change, from microplastics found in placentas to record-setting temperatures. Isn't it time for some good news about the planet?
The truth is, good climate news happens because remarkable humans like you make it happen. You can make headlines by making a small change in the hygiene products you use every month. Organic reusable pads are safe, sanitary, and sustainable—and might even help you create a friendlier world.
We know you're skeptical about making the switch to washable pads because we were, too. That's why we've compiled, critiqued, and debunked the top five myths about eco-friendly period products.
Keep reading to learn how you can do your part to save the earth, even when you're feeling bloated and grumpy and too lazy to get off the couch!
Myth #1: Washable Pads Are Gross
We get it: periods aren't exactly a tidy time of the month, even if you have a great pad. We all want to spend as little time as possible meditating on the contents of our uteruses. With that in mind, we promise that organic cotton pads are just as sanitary as any other period product you can find on store shelves.
In fact, when constructed from organic materials, reusable pads are naturally more breathable than disposable alternatives. They don't accumulate moisture in the same way as typical period products. That means bacteria doesn't have anywhere to grow, leading to fewer uncomfortable infections.
That bacteria is also one element that causes menstrual blood to develop a foul smell when you haven't been to change your pad in a while. Less bacteria means less odor. You're welcome!
Myth #2: My Period Is Too Heavy for Reusable Pads
What about folks with a heavier flow? The great news is that washable pads can accommodate everything from a light flow day to super heavy, "second night of your period" situations (you know the ones). The right washable pad will keep everything contained, even if you have a naturally heavy flow or perinatal bleeding.
The key is choosing the correct pad for your flow level. Each reusable pad has a unique capacity, with Super Ultra absorbency pads holding up to 70 ml of fluid! Switch back to a pantyliner as you approach the end of the week.
Some people also worry about slipping or bunching up, especially during physical activity or sleep. Each reusable pad is carefully constructed with snaps and grippy material that's stronger than the sticky adhesive you're used to. That pad's not going anywhere, whether you're running a marathon or having a super intense period dream.
All that to say, you won't have to worry about late-night leaks, heavy-flow days, or even postpartum bleeding. Start with the right capacity, and you'll keep things clean as a whistle.
Myth #3: They Still Contain Chemicals
While disposable period products end up in the trash (and, ultimately, a floating landfill somewhere out in the Pacific), reusable pads are washable. With that said, the wastewater has to go somewhere. Even in communities with excellent infrastructures, chemicals can enter the water supply, harming local ecosystems.
We're pleased to say that, when it comes to chemical composition, disposable pads and reusable pads are nothing alike. Your disposable pads likely contain plastics (remember the placentas?), carcinogenic toxins, and chemicals with skin irritating properties. In contrast, organic cotton pads are often chemical-free and won't harm your body or the planet.
Let this be a lesson: just because two products look alike doesn't mean they're the same on the inside, just like human beings!
Myth #4: They're Awkward to Change
Unless you work from home, you'll probably need to change your pad in a public restroom at some point during the day. We've all found ourselves squatting awkwardly in tight bathroom stalls, struggling to balance and keep things tidy. Many people assume changing and holding onto a full reusable pad must be an awkward, pungent nightmare.
Actually, brands like hannah design their organic reusable pads to fold up, with a coated, liquid-repellant layer on the outside. Lots of reusable pad users keep an adorable, opaque wetbag in their purse, where they can store their used pads until they get home.
There's no mess, no scent, and the bags even match the print on your pad. Not only is it tidy, but it's also coordinated!
Myth #5: They End up in Landfills Eventually
No pad lasts forever, and that includes reusable ones. With proper care, your hannah brand reusable pads can last up to six years. Needless to say, that's a lot longer than the two hours most disposable pads last!
What happens when those six blissful years have passed, and it's time to say farewell to your well-loved hannah pads? You can expect your organic cotton pad to fully decompose and return to the earth in a period of five months. The plastic in the average disposable pad can take multiple centuries—yikes!
Before saying goodbye to your pads, cut out the snaps, separate the layers, and remove the outer TPU. Everything else is compostable! If you choose not to compost and your reusable pad somehow finds its way to a landfill, rest assured that it won't be there very long.
Save the World With Organic Reusable Pads From hannah
You can't always control your period, but you can control the impact your period products have on our beautiful earth. When you choose organic reusable pads, menstrual cups, and organic period underwear, you are choosing to live sustainably. Eco-friendly period products are just one way to walk softly in the world without sacrificing comfort, hygiene, or convenience.
Are you ready to choose a kinder pad that's as whimsical and unique as you are? Reusable pads by hannah are always organic, fully washable, and available in adorable patterns that might even make you excited for the start of your cycle! Visit our online store to browse hannah's collection of green period products and fall in love with your period.