Over 12 billion pads and 7 billion tampons are discarded annually in the United States, creating a staggering amount of waste. Globally, this issue grows even larger, contributing significantly to landfill overflow and pollution. Most conventional menstrual products are made with non-biodegradable materials like plastic, meaning they can take 500-800 years to decompose. With millions of people using these products every day, it’s no surprise these products are a major source of single-use waste. Fortunately, there are sustainable alternatives that not only help the planet but also make periods more convenient and cost-effective.
Let’s talk about menstrual cups, menstrual discs, and period underwear, revolutionary options that reduce waste while empowering menstruators to take control of their cycles. Here’s a breakdown of how these reusable products can replace single-use items:
--A Saalt menstrual cup, made of medical-grade silicone, can hold as much as 4 tampons or 3 pads. With proper care, one period cup can last up to 10 years, saving hundreds (if not thousands) of disposable products over its lifetime Learn: How to insert a menstrual cup.
--A Saalt menstrual disc, another reusable option, holds even more fluid, up to 6 tampons or 4 pads’ worth. Their flat, flexible design makes them ideal for those who want an ultra-comfortable, solution that can even be worn for period sex. Both period cups and discs can be worn for up to 12 hours. Learn: How to insert a menstrual disc.
--Saalt Leakproof underwear takes convenience to the next level. Period panties can replace 8 tampons or 6 pads, depending on the style and flow level. They’re washable and reusable, lasting years with proper care. Learn: How period panties work, and how to wash period underwear.
Switching to these alternatives means fewer trips to the store, less waste in landfills, and more peace of mind. Imagine the environmental impact if even a fraction of people worldwide made the switch! Not only would billions of disposable products be diverted from landfills, but the resources used to produce and transport them would also decrease significantly.
Beyond the environmental benefits, these products are a win for your budget and body. While the upfront cost of reusable items may seem higher, their longevity makes them far more cost-effective over time. For example, a menstrual cup or pair of leakproof panties pays for itself after just a few cycles, leaving you with years of savings.
Choosing sustainable menstrual products is a small but powerful way to support the planet. With so many innovative options available, it’s easier than ever to make the swap. Ready to make the switch to Saalt and ditch the disposables? Your wallet, body, and the environment will thank you!