Kaboutjie SA Mommy Blogs by Lynne Huysamen
Did you ever take a moment to realize that the sanitary products you’re using are doing considerable damage to Mother Earth? Did you also know that every year, over 45 billion tampons and pads (that equates to 3.2 million kg of waste), are being thrown away worldwide?
Tampons may have come a long way since being introduced in the 1940s, but they are made from harmful non-biodegradable materials such as polyester, rayon, cotton, fiber finishes and polypropylene.
What’s worse is that these kinds of tampons are releasing catastrophic toxic chemicals into our beautiful ecosystem that could last for 500 years. Other than that, they are also hurting the environment while they’re being manufactured.
Farmers are at risk with cotton products, because traditionally grown cotton consists of a lot of deadly chemicals that the former are exposed to.
A high demand of copper is what prompted farmers to switch to pesticides, which in turn results in 20,000 people dying due to cancer or having miscarriages every year.
We believe we’ve gone deep enough to get your attention by now and we have the perfect solution that is healthier for both women and our beloved planet:
***Disclosure -The links in this post may contain affiliate links and I may receive a small commission if you make a purchase after clicking on a link.***
- Menstrual Cups
The menstrual cup is a silicon cup that is designed to be folded and can be inserted directly into the vagina and worn for over 12 hours. After being inserted, they stay in place by forming a suction that will neatly catch and store your flow to prevent it from going anywhere else. Not only is it easy to insert, it is also comfortable to the point where you won’t even feel like it’s there, they also reduce menstrual pain which is a big bonus.
It is also easy to clean as you only need to use a soap like that of Dr. Bronner’s Unscented Castile Soap to sanitize it and then rinse it with water to make it look good as new. And if there isn’t any water, just use a napkin or toilet paper instead to wipe it off every time you use the restroom.
If it’s quality you’re looking for, Moon Cup and Sckooncup are excellent choices.
- Period Panties
As the name implies, these panties are specifically designed to keep your flow in check and control. This is done with the absorbent liner that is built into this special underwear to prevent embarrassing leaks and stains from ever happening. Cute, comfortable and eco-friendly – just the combination that makes your day go smoothly.
These panties do a great job during your period, but are very useful for pre- and post-period days, when things are unpredictable. They help you save up on money and cleaning up the mess from disposable liners and pads.
- Organic Cotton Tampons
Organic cotton tampons are a healthier alternative because they are not made of plastic, glue, phthalates, pesticides, deodorants, fragrances, bleach, chlorine and synthetic chemicals. These are the kind of chemicals that are known to cause cancer, interrupt your hormone production and affect your nervous system.
The only downside to these tampons is that they are more expensive than regular tampons. But nevertheless, a little extra fee is worth it to opt for a healthier lifestyle.
- Sea Sponge Tampons
If you’re up for a natural alternative, you’ll know just how much you need sea sponge tampons. These tampons are natural sea sponges that have been fished from the ocean and have been used by women for over thousands of years.
Sea sponge tampons function as regular tampons that are not only inserted with ease, but are also free of harmful chemicals such as fragrance, chlorine, bleach and dye among others.
To use it, all you have to do is soak it in water squeeze out the excess water and then insert it gently into your vagina. It is also easy to clean with water after using the bathroom. Additionally, sea sponges are biodegradable and can be used for a few months before being replaced.
- Cotton Pantyliners and Pads
Cotton pantyliners and pads are easily washable and reusable, soft, comfortable, absorbent and dry, which gets rid of unpleasant smells and prevent the creation of waste.
Cotton pantyliners and pads lack any irritating or bothersome chemical that keep your skin from getting irritated. You can wash them off with ease by using cold water and just pop them into the washing machine.
If you’re on the road, you can store your used pads in a reusable sanitary napkin bag. The best part about them is that you only have to buy them once and you can save up on hundreds during your menstruation period as well as keep landfills from getting clogged up.
Wow, I didn’t even know about most of these products.
I know I have to try and do the responsible thing and opt for the eco-friendly products, but at the moment I am trying to save wherever I can.
I have heard about the menstrual cups before. I’m just a bit apprehensive about inserting the cup for some reason. I always thought it is a bit unsanitary, but I’ve been under the wrong impression all along. This is not the case at all. It does seem like the best option and a lot more cost-effective in the long run. They are easily cleaned and last for 12 hours which is a major plus.
I think it’s just the idea of having this cup inserted down there that freaks me out a bit. But according to this article it is comfortable to the point where you hardly know it’s there.
I think I should seriously consider getting one of these. Not having to remember to buy tampons every month would be advantageous.
I’ve never heard about sea sponge tampons before, but I am really impressed by it being biodegradable and you can use them for more than one month.
Thanks for sharing this. I am going to check out pricing on the menstrual cup and see how it goes.
I am shocked as well, I haven’t heard of these previously. It is a bit scary thinking of inserting a cup down there but that seems like a better option than the rest. I have checked the price now online at pricecheck.co.za, and the menstrual cups is approximately two hundred and forty-nine rand each.
The panties I am not to certain will be comfortable as it is the whole taking off and washing, this does not seem to be a hygienic method for me. The menstrual cups definitely would work better and is equipped to last a twelve-hour period, in comparison to tampons which have to be changed in approximately four hour intervals.
I will have to get some courage to make such a change.
Absolutely awesome products. Safe, convenient, and eco friendly. Do your bit for the environment, be healthy and confident!!
Yumnah you are so right, it will save the environment and long term your pocket too!
Hi Lynne. Where can I purchase these products?
Hi Vicky – You can get them from Amazon, click here to check them out.
Hey – I’m working with a company that is looking for sites that have content relating to clothing and I came across yours.
Any chance you’d be open to hearing about a way you could link to a merchant and make money in the case someone clicks on the link and purchases something?
Just wanted to see if it’s something you’d be interested in hearing about! If not, I hope you have a great day!
Hey Rob – I am familiar with affiliate marketing and I do make use of that on some of my posts with Amazon however I am currently not signing up with any new companies. If you are interested in advertising with me you can contact me through my advertising page.