Saalt vs Flex Cup: Key Differences in Design, Comfort, and Removal

Key Takeaways:

• Materials & Design: Saalt and Flex Cup are both crafted from medical-grade silicone, offering eco-friendly and sustainable menstrual solutions, but differ significantly in design and comfort features.

• Design Differences: Key differences lie in the firmness, removal design, and sizing options, impacting ease of use and comfort during all-day wear.

• Design Approach: Saalt focuses on an intuitive fit and sustainable materials, while Flex Cup introduces a pull-tab for easier removal, emphasizing convenience for new users.

When it comes to managing your period with confidence, menstrual cups have changed the game for people everywhere. Whether you’re powering through a workout, chasing after little ones, or returning to daily routines postpartum. But with so many options available, finding the menstrual cup that matches your needs, comfort, and lifestyle can feel overwhelming.

Two names you’ll see at the top of the list are Saalt and Flex Cup. Each promises a leak-free, eco-friendly period, but what actually sets them apart when it comes to day-to-day comfort, removal, and design? In this guide, we’re digging deep into the key differences between Saalt and Flex Cup, breaking down how each performs—so you can make the best choice for your body and your life stage, whether you’re managing postpartum leaks or aiming to stay active and worry-free.

At Saalt, we're passionate about more than just periods—we’re committed to supporting women through every season of life with premium, sustainable solutions (and no PFAs, ever). If you’ve ever wished for period products that actually deliver on comfort, performance, and peace of mind, you’ll want to keep reading as we compare Saalt vs Flex Cup head-to-head. Let’s get started!

Key Specs at a Glance

The key differences stand out in firmness, removal design, and sizing options. Both cups are designed for all-day comfort and long-term durability, but the details can make a difference in your day-to-day life.

Material and Sustainability Comparison

When it comes to choosing a menstrual cup, what it's made out of matters just as much as how it fits. Both the Saalt and Flex Cup are crafted from medical-grade silicone—a non-toxic, body-safe material trusted by health professionals for its durability and hypoallergenic properties. Medical-grade silicone is designed to withstand years of use without degrading, making it an excellent foundation for a reusable period product. (Mayo Clinic)

For the eco-conscious shopper, reusable cups offer a huge step up from disposable period products. By investing in a cup made from quality silicone, users can dramatically reduce the waste generated by single-use pads and tampons, which can take centuries to degrade in landfills. Both options provide a sustainable edge by offering reusability for several years, minimizing environmental impact and individual product footprints.

That being said, not all silicone is created equal. Look for menstrual cups that are free from chemicals like BPA, phthalates, and latex. Some brands go a step further, ensuring their products are made without added dyes or are produced using environmentally responsible manufacturing processes. These added touches can matter if you’re especially sensitive or just want to make the most ethical choice possible.

In terms of packaging, some brands are pushing sustainability efforts by using recyclable or compostable materials and reducing unnecessary plastic, aligning with a growing desire for eco-friendly period care. When all is said and done, the most sustainable menstrual cup is one you’ll use again and again—significantly cutting back on waste, no matter which brand you choose.

Stem, Rim, and Grip Rings: What Sets Them Apart

When choosing a period cup, the stem, rim, and grip rings can greatly impact comfort and ease of use. Understanding these features helps you select a cup that fits your body and lifestyle.

The stem on the Flex Cup acts as a handle during removal. The stem is adjustable, so the user can adjust it for personalized use. The shaft of the Flex Cup stem is thick compared to the Saalt Cup, while the base of the stem thins out to a loop for easy grasping. Some customers have noted they fear the thinness of the loop to be susceptible to breaking; there have been reports of the removal loop breaking during removal. The Flex Menstrual Cup is the only menstrual cup on the market with a pull-tab for removal. Alternatively, the stem of the Saalt Cup, like most menstrual cups, exists to help locate your cup. The grip rings on the bulb of the Saalt Cup are for cup removal. The stem of the Saalt Cup is soft, thin, and flexible, allowing the user to trim it to a preferred length. Learn: How to remove my menstrual cup. 

The rim is crucial for creating a leakproof seal. Firmer rims open easily once inserted, ensuring a secure fit, but may feel more pronounced if you’re sensitive. Softer rims are gentler, ideal for those with pelvic discomfort or new users, but might require careful placement to ensure they pop open fully. The firmness level of the Flex Cup rim is comparable to the original Saalt Cup. The main difference is that the Flex Cup is held in place by its rim, while both firmnesses of the Saalt Cup are held in place by its rim and bulb. This small difference allows the Saalt Cup to have two points of contact for security and pressure distribution, making it a highly comfortable fit. 

Grip rings, typically at the base of the cup, are subtle textures or ridges enabling your fingers to grasp the cup better for safe removal, even when things get slippery. Depending on design, grip rings can be pronounced for extra security or barely detectable for added comfort.

Ultimately, the combination of stem, rim, and grip ring features can make all the difference in your menstrual cup experience. Finding the right balance means a secure, leak-free, and comfortable fit every cycle. The Flex Cup has no grip rings, while the Saalt Cup does have grip rings. 

Insertion Learning Curve: Saalt vs Flex

Switching from disposable period products to a reusable menstrual cup brings up a big question: how hard will it be to insert? Both Saalt Cup and Flex Cup are designed to make that process as easy as possible, but there are subtle differences.

The Saalt Cup is made from soft, springy silicone that’s easy to fold and gentle to place, making it a favorite among beginners. Its classic “C” or even “punch-down” fold is intuitive, and the cup’s slightly tapered shape guides it into position. Those who are new to cups or have sensitive bladders often find Saalt’s flexibility forgiving and more comfortable to maneuver, especially with the Saalt Soft Cup.

The Flex Cup, however, sets itself apart with its pull-tab base, reminiscent of a tampon string. While the tab is mainly for removal, its presence can offer reassurance as you learn. 

Both Saalt and Flex offer size guides and customer support to make the shift easier. No matter your choice, a bit of patience and practice will help you master insertion. Taking it slow, experimenting with folds, and staying relaxed are key tips from experienced users. Learn: How to insert a menstrual cup. 

Ultimately, the insertion learning curve is manageable for both cups, and with a few tries, most people find a reusable cup a comfortable, confident, and eco-friendly part of their cycle.

Removal Ease and Mess Factor

Nobody wants a stressful experience when it’s time to empty their menstrual cup. Removal is where product design really matters. Both the Saalt and Flex Cup strive to make removal easy and mess-free, though their approaches differ.

The Flex Cup is known for its patented pull-tab stem. Instead of pinching the cup to break the seal, you gently pull the tab, which releases the seal with less pressure and effort. This feature is particularly helpful for those new to cups or those with limited dexterity—it removes much of the guesswork and can make bathroom breaks less intimidating.

In contrast, the Saalt Cup (and most traditional cups) uses a simple stem, ring, or base. You must locate the base, pinch to break the seal, and slowly wiggle it out. While this can take practice, many users soon find removal straightforward and manageable. The classic method gives you more control over removal speed, which can help minimize spills.

When it comes to mess, both designs have tradeoffs. The pull-tab may keep fingers slightly cleaner, but steady hands and patience are key with any menstrual cup. Most users find that, regardless of design, practice leads to clean, fuss-free removal. (Cleveland Clinic)

Choosing between a pull-tab and a classic stem is about what feels right for you. Consider where and when you'll be changing your cup, and which process fits your lifestyle. Both options can make your period easier—with a little practice, either method can deliver mess-free removal.

The Verdict: Choosing Between Saalt and Flex Cup

The choice between Saalt and Flex Cup comes down to your lifestyle, comfort preferences, and priorities. Saalt’s thoughtful design, crafted with sustainability, comfort, and inclusivity in mind, means every cup and pair of period underwear aligns with the needs of real women at any stage of life. With premium materials made without PFAS, a mission-driven B-Corp approach, Plastic Negative Certification, and dedication to comprehensive period support, Saalt goes beyond just products: it’s about dignity, confidence, and worldwide impact through 1% revenue donations to period equity initiatives.

Flex Cup brings innovation with its pull-tab stem removal, offering a unique solution for those who struggle with traditional cup removal. But at Saalt, the focus remains on sustainability, an intuitive fit, and all-day comfort, backed by sizes, absorbencies, and underwear styles to meet every possible need.

Ultimately, “Saalt vs Flex Cup” isn’t about choosing a winner—it’s about empowering you to select what fits your body and values best. Whichever option you pick, you’re taking a brave, sustainable step forward in self-care. And if support, quality, and global impact matter most? Saalt is here for you, every leak and every stage, for life.

 Read Also:

• The Difference Between Saalt Soft and Regular Cups

• Flex Disc or Saalt? Key Differences Explained

• Tampon vs. Menstrual Cup: Which One Is Right For You?

Frequently Asked Questions About Saalt vs Flex Cup

What are the main design differences between Saalt and Flex Cup?

The Saalt Cup features a classic, bell-shaped design with a smooth, seamless finish, making it easy to fold, insert, and clean. The Flex Cup stands out with its proprietary pull-tab design, which allows for tampon-like removal, making it easier for those concerned about breaking the suction seal during removal. This key difference suits varied user preferences and comfort levels.

Which cup is softer, Saalt or Flex Cup?

The Saalt Soft Cup is generally softer and more flexible, making it a favorite among those with sensitivities or newcomers to menstrual cups. Flex Cup, while still soft, is slightly firmer to support the pull-tab’s mechanism. If maximum softness is your priority, Saalt is often the preferred choice.

Are both cups made from medical-grade silicone?

Yes, both Saalt and Flex Cup are crafted from 100% medical-grade silicone. This guarantees that both are safe, flexible, and free from BPA, latex, and harsh chemicals.

What unique features does the Flex Cup offer?

The Flex Cup’s unique feature is its pull-tab stem, designed to break the seal easily for hassle-free removal—especially beneficial for beginners. It does have more parts to clean, but offers a removal experience closer to tampon use.

Does the Saalt Cup have a special grip or texture?

Yes, the Saalt Cup features a soft, flexible stem with subtle grip ridges, ensuring easy repositioning without discomfort. Its smooth finish and rounded base further aid comfortable insertion, removal, and cleaning. This thoughtful design caters to a wide range of users seeking comfort and reliability.

Sources:

1. Dorfner, M. (2016, March 24). Menstrual Cups vs. Tampons: Things You Might Not Know. https://newsnetwork.mayoclinic.org/discussion/menstrual-cups-vs-tampons-things-you-might-not-know-about-the-cup/

2. Clinic, C. (2025h, November 17). Everything you need to know about Menstrual cups. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/menstrual-cup