Reusable Period Products: A Better, Safer, and Greener Way to Manage Menstruation

Periods with Comfort, Sustainability & Dignity

Menstruation remains a taboo topic, avoided in public society and often whispered about behind closed doors. It inevitably recalls memories of boys and girls being separated to watch a ‘coming of age’ video, telling girls they would soon start menstruating. That awkward clip was the last and only time periods were discussed in public education. Fortunately, there is a progressive effort to discuss and investigate eco-friendly, health-focused alternatives to sanitary products that don’t involve shame or stigma.  

Real Relief firmly supports the notion that periods should be managed comfortably, sustainably, and covered with dignity. This is where reusable period products come in. They not only provide a better experience than traditional sanitary pads, but also provide a much more positive impact on the planet’s future. 

(Try this Quiz - Reusable vs Disposable https://docs.google.com/forms/d/11zrfvs7mzLUMLC1NlYK8kLIM105xRUpCVIlxmxljLtQ/preview?edit_requested=true )

5 Amazing Reusable Period Products That Empower Your Cycle

Reusable period products are sanitary items that can be washed and reused multiple times. These include:  

• Cloth sanitary pads  
• Period underwear  
• Menstrual cups   
• Menstrual discs   
• Reusable tampons (less common)  
• Waterproof carrying bags or wet/dry storage pouches  

Unlike disposable products that are thrown in the ocean or dumped in landfills, reusable period products are kinder to the environment and are also flexible on the wearer’s pocket. https://www.realreliefindia.com 

Tired of Being Let Down? Here's Why You Should Transition to Us

1. Environmental Impact

Menstruators go through more than 11,000 disposable tampons, pads, and other menstrual products throughout their life. This translates into a staggering amount of plastics, cotton, and other non recyclable waste. Many of these products, like pads and tampons, are made of polyethylene plastic, bleached materials, and synthetic fragrances — which are not compostable. 

In comparison, reusable menstrual products like cloth pads and menstrual cups don’t have the same negative affect on the environment. They can replace hundreds of disposables, drastically reducing waste, while also preventing marine life from ingesting dangerous plastics.

2. Economic Benefits 

While the initial investment of reusable menstrual products like cups and cloth pads may look steep, the long-term usage pays for itself multiple times over. A menstrual cup can easily last up to a decade and cloth pads/period panties roughly 3–7 years when maintained well. 

This is especially helpful for larger families in rural or low-income areas. Real Relief helps combat period poverty around the world by promoting reusable period solutions, and this is why their work is so groundbreaking.

3. Health and Safety

The majority of disposable period pads and sanitary tampons have added fragrances, bleaches, or synthetic fibers that may irritate or disrupt the body’s pH. Reusable period products are made from materials which are considered safer, such as:

1. Organic cotton
2. Medical-grade silicone
3. Bamboo or hemp blends

These materials do not harbor PFAS or poly and perfluoroalkyl substances, which are used in period underwear from popular brands and do not irritate the skin, making them breathable and hypoallergenic

Classes of Reusable Menstrual Hygiene Products

1. Reusable Sanitary Pads

These are known as cloth pads, which are fabric versions of disposable pads and are washable. Their absorbent capabilities vary widely, including:

• Pantyliners – For daily use or spotting
• Regular pads – For moderate flow
• Night or heavy pads – For overnight or postpartum bleeding
• Postpartum or maternity pads – Extra-large and super absorbent
• Specialty shapes like thong, labia, or winged designs

Cloth pads attach to your underwear with snaps or Velcro and are made from stay-dry fleece or soft organic cotton. Their breathability and customization makes them feel far less bulky than commercial pads. Some even have secret pockets for extra inserts during heavy flow days. realreliefindia.com/products/Safepad%E2%84%A2-standard-pack

Real Relief Tip: To comfortably cover a full menstrual cycle, start with 6-10 pads and have a mix of different sizes.

2. Period Underwear 

Period underwear resembles normal underwear, but has additional layers that soak up blood and stop any leaks. It is great for teenagers, busy professionals, and anyone looking for a discreet, no-fuss solution. 

Some benefits include: 

• Great for light to medium flow 
• Can be used as a backup for menstrual cups and tampons 
• Replaces liners or even full pads for some users
• Comfortable enough for everyday wear 

Knix and ModiBodi are known for offering period underwear with varying levels of absorbency — from the absorption capacity of half a tampon to nine tampons’ worth. realreliefindia.com/products/safepanty%E2%84%A2-high-waist

Real Relief Tip: These are best for lighter days, but consider pairing with a cloth pad for heavy days instead.

3. Menstrual Cups 

Unlike period underwear, a menstrual cup is a flexible, medical-grade silicone cup that goes inside the vagina to collect blood. It forms a leak proof seal and works best for travelers and those who work a lot as it can be worn for up to 12 hours.

Using a menstrual cup can provide the following benefits:   

1. Lasts 5-10 years with proper care:With proper maintenance and care, menstrual cups can last between five to ten years.
2. Holds more blood than a tampon or pad:Menstrual cups can hold more blood than pads or tampons.
3. Zero waste and very cost-effective:There is no waste generated when using these cups, making them a cost-efficient option.
4. Doesn’t interfere with your natural vaginal flora:Menstrual cups do not affect your natural vaginal bacteria or flora.
5. Cups come in various sizes and firmness levels:Smaller cups are suitable for individuals who have not given birth vaginally, while larger cups are meant for those who have.

Real Relief Tip:Helpful fitting charts along with virtual fittings for sizing can be found at Mooncup, Lily Cup, and MeLuna.  

4. Menstrual Discs

Menstrual discs are similar to cups but sit higher up in the vaginal canal, right at the base of the cervix. They offer a high capacity and can be worn during mess-free intercourse — which is not possible with cups.

Comfort and flexibility are two factors that reusable discs, although newer to the market, are gaining popularity for.

How to Clean and Care for Reusable Period Products.

Taking good care of your reusable products can help maintain their effectiveness and extend their life.

Cloth Pads & Period Underwear:

- Rinse immediately after use in cold water.

- Soak or store in wet bags until laundry day.

- Machine wash using gentle detergents (bleach and fabric softener are to be avoided).

- Air drying is optimal, though some pads can be tumble dried on low.

Menstrual Cups & Discs:

These should always be sanitized by boiling in water for 5 to 7 minutes, between cycles. Rinse thoroughly after each use. 

It is best to store these in breathable pouches instead of airtight containers. 

Quick Tip: While on the go, carry a small wet bag for simpler storage.

Period Poverty and Reusable Period Products 

For many women and girls, disposable pads are an added expense that can lead to missed work or school. Additionally, it can lead to using unsafe alternatives such as dirty rags or newspapers, increasing risk of infection. 

Real Relief aims to combat period poverty by offering reusable and more affordable alternatives such as:  

1. Safepad™ – An antimicrobial reusable sanitary pad that offers protection from infection. 
2. Safepanty™ – A sanitary panty designed with built-in absorbency.  
3. Supertowel™ – A multifunctional towel specially designed for menstrual hygiene endorsed with advanced antimicrobial properties. 
4. Educational kits – Designed for schools and the communities for awareness campaigns on period poverty.  

Unlike single use products, these alternatives are not only sustainable, but empowering. 

Discover the Safety Behind Reusable Period Products

“Forever chemicals,” PFAS, were detected in some brands of period underwear, including Thinx in 2020. These chemicals are known for being resistant to breakdown and accumulating in the body over time.

While we don’t have clear evidence yet that PFAS pose health concerns, particularly in clothing and textiles, it is a good idea to keep abreast of the issue. Many companies conduct testing and confirm that PFAS is not purposefully included in their products.  

Real Relief Commitment: “Our brand is committed to not using toxic chemicals. Every product undergoes stringent safety and quality checks so all users can feel healthy and comfortable.”  

Making the Transition: Tips for Beginners  

• Start slow. Limit your purchase to one or two cloth pads or period panties.  
• Track your cycle. Knowing your flow patterns will inform your selection on absorbency.  
• Combine products. For extra assurance, use a menstrual cup alongside period underwear, or cloth pads.  
• Educate yourself. Take the time to watch informative videos, read reviews, or ask questions.  
• Expect a learning curve. It is normal for it to take a few cycles to figure out what works best for you.  

Final Thoughts: Dignity, Freedom, and Sustainability  

More than just a menstrual care solution, reusable period products promote dignified menstruation—safe, clean access to periods for women and girls of all ages around the world. Protecting the environment is equally important.

At Real Relief, we embrace these this values. Whether you’re switching for yourself or aiding communities in need, reusable menstrual products are a better-for-the-planet alternative. https://www.realreliefindia.com

Join the Movement

Check out our line of period Safepad™ and Safepanty™. We offer thoughtfully engineered, eco-friendly, reusable period products designed with science and compassion. Every purchase aids in combating period poverty and helps empower women globally.

Real Relief’s Menstrual Care Collection 

Participate in the Initiatives on Period Poverty  

Together, let’s eliminate the problem of periods for all.

(Try this Quiz - Reusable vs Disposable https://docs.google.com/forms/d/11zrfvs7mzLUMLC1NlYK8kLIM105xRUpCVIlxmxljLtQ/preview?edit_requested=true )