Why Period Underwear Is a Must-Have for a Sustainable Lifestyle

Why Period Underwear Is a Must-Have for a Sustainable Lifestyle

I believe period underwear plays a vital role in sustainable living. It reduces waste, supports eco-friendly habits, and promotes health and comfort. According to recent data, 24% of users have already switched to reusable period underwear.

Menstrual Product Usage Category

Percentage (%)

Participants who used any reusable product during last period

37

Participants who used reusable period underwear during last period

24

Participants who used menstrual cups during last period

17

Participants who had ever tried reusable products but not used last period

10.6

Participants who never used reusable products

52.1

Bar chart comparing percentages of menstrual product usage categories, including period underwear adoption.

I choose innovative, high-absorbency options like the 6 x Set of Period Underwear for reliable, inclusive protection.

Key Takeaways

  • Period underwear greatly reduces waste and lowers your carbon footprint by replacing hundreds of disposable pads or tampons, helping protect the environment.

  • Choosing period underwear made from safe, organic materials protects your health by avoiding harmful chemicals found in many disposable products.

  • Period underwear offers superior comfort, leak-proof protection, and long-term cost savings, making it a smart and sustainable choice for all body types.

Environmental Impact

Environmental Impact

Waste Reduction

I have seen firsthand how much waste traditional menstrual products create. Disposable pads and tampons pile up in landfills, taking centuries to break down. A Life Cycle Assessment study shows that one pair of period underwear can replace 150 to 200 disposable pads or tampons. This switch means I can keep hundreds of single-use products out of the trash over my lifetime. Disposable pads, made with plastic, can take up to 800 years to decompose. By choosing reusable options, I help reduce landfill waste and plastic pollution. Period underwear stands out as one of the lowest-impact menstrual products, second only to menstrual cups. I feel good knowing my choice makes a real difference for the planet.

Lower Carbon Footprint

When I look at the carbon footprint of menstrual products, the numbers are striking. Disposable pads and tampons in the US create about 5.3 to 8.9 kg of CO2 per user each year. These products also generate billions of pieces of plastic waste. In contrast, period underwear offers a much smaller carbon footprint—studies show it is four to six times lower than disposables. The main reason is simple: reusable products cut down on manufacturing, packaging, and transportation energy. Here are some key points from life cycle assessments:

  • Reusable period underwear can last for up to 100 washes, reducing waste by over 90%.

  • Choosing period underwear helps save about 60 kg of plastic per user each year.

  • The durability and reusability of these products lead to much lower greenhouse gas emissions.

  • Period underwear reduces carbon emissions by about 60% over its life cycle compared to traditional products.

By making this switch, I lower my carbon footprint and support a cleaner, healthier environment.

Period Underwear Benefits

Period Underwear Benefits

Health and Safety

When I choose menstrual products, safety always comes first. Many disposable pads and tampons contain PFAS, also known as "forever chemicals." These substances can build up in the body and have been linked to immune system damage, reproductive issues, and even cancer. I find it reassuring that period underwear brands now prioritize health by avoiding harmful chemicals and obtaining certifications like OEKO-TEX and GOTS. I always look for products made with organic cotton and free from biocides, which makes them gentle on sensitive skin. For example, the 6 x Set of Period Underwear uses vegan and soft organic cotton in the intimate area, ensuring comfort and safety.

Here’s a quick look at the materials used by leading brands and their safety features:

Brand

Key Materials Used

Safety Features and Certifications

Boody

Bamboo viscose, nylon, elastane, cotton, modal

B Corp certified, organically derived bamboo, soft & gentle

WUKA

Organic cotton (BCI & GOTS certified), TENCEL modal, elastane, polyester, recycled nylon

Ethically made, organic cotton, highly absorbent, sustainable

Dear Kate

Nylon, lycra, micro polyester, elastane

PFAS-free, breathable, anti-microbial, no PU/PV films

The Period Company

Organic cotton, cotton, spandex jersey, spandex, nylon, polyester, polyester PUL

Third-party tested (Intertek), organic, toxic-free

Modibodi

Bamboo viscose, merino wool, polyester, polyamide, elastane, recycled nylon

PFAS-free, sustainable materials

TomboyX

OEKO-TEX certified cotton, spandex, polyester

Chemical-free, odor-repellent, antibacterial, PFOS/PFOA free

I feel confident knowing that period underwear, when chosen from reputable brands, can minimize exposure to harmful substances and provide a safer alternative to disposables.

Comfort and Fit

Comfort is a top priority for me during my period. I have found that period underwear offers a level of comfort that traditional pads and tampons simply cannot match. Many users, including myself, appreciate the soft, breathable fabrics and the way these products fit just like regular underwear. The 6 x Set of Period Underwear, for example, features high absorbency—holding up to four tampons’ worth of fluid—and advanced leak-proof technology. This means I can go about my day with confidence, even on my heaviest flow days.

  • Soft, breathable fabric feels gentle against the skin and reduces irritation.
  • Multiple absorbent layers and organic cotton liners collect flow discreetly.
  • High-waisted and flexible waistband designs provide extra support and coverage.
  • Available in various styles and sizes to suit different body types and preferences.

Many users report that period underwear makes them feel comfortable and confident, reducing worries about leaks and stains. I appreciate that these products are designed for sensitive skin and are free from harsh chemicals.

Inclusivity matters to me. Leading brands now offer sizes from XS to 6X, ensuring everyone can find a comfortable fit. Plus-size campaigns and adaptive designs make period underwear accessible for people with disabilities or special needs. Features like side fastenings and elastic grip loops help those with limited mobility, while the soft, stretchy materials accommodate a wide range of body shapes.

Here’s what users say about comfort and practicality:

  • Period underwear feels like regular underwear, not bulky pads.

  • Leak-proof design supports active lifestyles and sports.

  • Easy to wash and reuse, fitting seamlessly into daily routines.

Bar chart showing percentages of different user groups reporting increased satisfaction after switching to period underwear

Cost Savings

Switching to period underwear has saved me a significant amount of money over time. Disposable products require constant repurchasing, while a quality set of period underwear can last for years with proper care. The upfront investment pays off quickly, often within the first year.

Product Type

Monthly Cost (USD)

Annual Cost (USD)

Lifetime Cost (40 years, USD)

Period Underwear Cost (per pair, USD)

Period Underwear Lifetime Cost (2-3 years, USD)

Disposable Products

$5 - $15

$60 - $180

$2,400 - $7,200

N/A

N/A

Period Underwear

N/A

N/A

N/A

$25 - $40

$200 - $800

Most period underwear lasts between three and five years, far outlasting single-use pads and tampons. Over five years, I can save hundreds of dollars, and over a lifetime, the savings can exceed $5,000. The durability and reusability of period underwear make it a smart financial choice.

I value the peace of mind that comes from knowing I am making a cost-effective, sustainable, and comfortable choice for my menstrual health.


I choose period underwear because it reduces landfill waste, lowers my carbon footprint, and saves money over time. Modern options offer comfort, leak-proof protection, and inclusive sizing.

I feel empowered knowing my choice supports both my health and the environment.

FAQ

FAQ

How do I wash period underwear?

I rinse them in cold water, then machine wash on a gentle cycle. I avoid fabric softeners and tumble dry on low or air dry for best results.

Can I wear period underwear overnight?

Yes, I wear period underwear overnight. The high-absorbency design and leak-proof technology keep me protected and comfortable while I sleep.

Is period underwear suitable for heavy flow days?

Absolutely. I choose high-absorbency options, like the 6 x Set of Period Underwear, which holds up to four tampons’ worth of fluid. I feel confident even on my heaviest days.

Tip: I always check the absorbency rating to match my flow for optimal comfort and protection.

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