Switching to reusable tampons, cups and underwear tricky? Read our advice!

Reusable menstrual products are becoming increasingly popular, but switching from disposable products such as tampons and pads to reusable tampons, cups and menstrual underwear can raise questions and uncertainties. Especially if you’ve been used to disposable products for years. We understand that this takes some getting used to, but reusable products offer many benefits for the environment, your health and comfort. In this blog, we answer the most frequently asked questions and debunk the biggest misconceptions about reusable menstrual products!

Why switch to reusable tampons, cups and underwear?

• Environmental friendliness: On average, a woman uses 10,000 tampons or sanitary pads in her lifetime, representing 60-90 kg of waste. These products are often not biodegradable and burden the environment. en Reusable products such as cups and washable underwear are more sustainable and reduce the production of disposable plastic. A good reason to switch!
• Cost savings: More than 40% of women think that reusable menstrual products are very expensive, but in the long run you actually save money. Although the purchase price is higher, these products last much longer. A menstrual cup lasts 5 to 10 years and menstrual underwear 2 to 5 years. This saves hundreds of dollars compared to disposable products.
• Health benefits: Many disposable products contain chemicals, perfumes and other harmful substances that can cause irritations or allergies. Sustainable and safe alternatives, such as reusable tampons, medical silicone menstrual cups and menstrual underwear, are gentler on the skin, reduce irritation and maintain the vagina’s natural pH balance.
• Comfortable and practical: More than 30% of women think reusables are uncomfortable, but that’s a misconception. Menstrual underwear feels like normal underwear, but stays even drier. A menstrual cup can last up to 8 hours without leaking – ideal for busy days, sports or travel.

Common misconceptions about reusable menstrual products

• Lack of information
  37% of women report insufficient knowledge about reusable menstrual products, especially younger participants and college students. Informed choice begins with reliable information.
• Hygiene
  20% find reusable products unhygienic, but in reality they contain fewer chemicals than disposable products. Materials such as medical silicone help prevent odors and bacterial growth. They also reduce the risk of irritation and infection. However, it is important to always follow hygiene guidelines, such as washing hands and sterilizing the product regularly.
• Capacity
  40% doubt that reusable products absorb enough. In practice, they can often absorb more than disposable products. Whereas a standard tamp absorbs about 7 ml, reusable alternatives can hold between 15 and 35 ml.
• Portability
  76% think disposable products are more convenient for travel. Yet reusable products are actually more practical: instead of carrying several packs of tampons or pads, one menstrual cup or a few sets of menstrual underwear are often sufficient.
• Fear
  80% of women fear that reusables may “get lost” in the body, especially since they have no string. However, this is not possible. The cervix is smaller than the menstrual cup, preventing it from going beyond its natural range. In addition, the design of the cup ensures that it stays securely in place. Removal is easy, using the convenient loop you can feel.
• Complicated switch
  47% think switching to reusables is complicated. It may take some getting used to at first, but with the right information and practice, it soon becomes a natural and comfortable choice. You certainly won’t regret it, that’s a promise! 😉

Frequently asked questions about reusable products

Reusable menstrual products are durable, comfortable and, in the long run, much more economical than disposable products. Whether you choose a menstrual cup, washable menstrual underwear or reusable tampons, below we answer all the frequently asked questions for you.

1. What are reusable menstrual products?
   Reusable menstrual products are menstrual products that you can use multiple times, instead of throwing away after one time. Our reusable menstrual products:

• • Menstrual cups: Silicone cups that collect menstrual blood and can be worn for up to 8 hours.
  • Washable menstrual underwear: Underwear with absorbent layers that collect menstrual blood without making your underwear damp!

2. How long do reusable menstrual products last?

• Menstrual cups: 5 to 10 years if properly maintained.
• Washable menstrual underwear: 2 to 5 years if washed properly and air dried.

3. How to use a menstrual cup
   A menstrual cup is worn internally and works by collecting blood rather than absorbing it.
   1. Fold the cup and insert it into the vagina.
   2. The cup opens and forms a light vacuum seal.
   3. Empty the cup after a maximum of 8 hours.
   4. Rinse with neutral soap and sterilize after use.

4. Are reusable menstrual products difficult to use?
   The switch can take some getting used to, but most women find it much more comfortable than disposable products after a few menstrual cycles.

5. How do you wash and maintain reusable menstrual products?

• • Menstrual Cups: Rinse with cold water and mild, unscented soap such as our Natural Cup Soap after each use. For thorough cleaning, boil out the cup in a pan for 5 minutes after your period or use our sterilizer for quick and effective cleaning.
  • Washable menstrual underwear: first rinse with cold water and wash at 30-40°C without fabric softener and air dry.

6. Is using a reusable menstrual product painful?
   No, if a product is inserted correctly, you should not feel it. It may take some getting used to at first, but with proper sizing and technique, most women quickly find what works best for them without pain or discomfort.
7. Can menstrual cups leak?
   If placed properly, no. A menstrual cup seals by forming a slight vacuum, preventing leakage. Washable menstrual underwear has multiple absorbent layers that provide up to 8 hours of protection, comfortable during the day and night.
8. How much money will you save with reusable menstrual products?
   On average, you’ll save hundreds of dollars a year!

• • Menstrual cups (€15-40) last up to 10 years
  • Washable menstrual underwear (€20-50 each) lasts 2-5 years

Compared to disposable tampons and pads, which quickly cost €100-150 a year, the switch is a smart choice.

9. Are reusable menstrual products suitable for every woman?
   Sure! There are different sizes, products and materials available. Experiment and find out what you are most comfortable with.
10. Can I wear menstrual underwear while sleeping?
    Yes, right! Menstrual underwear is ideal for the night, super soft for your skin and prevents leaks. Plus, the underwear stays completely dry even after several hours, contrary to what many women think!

How do you make the transition easier?

• Start small: First, try a menstrual cup or washable underwear on a day when you are at home. That way you can get used to it without stress.
• Follow the instructions: Each product has its own instructions for use. Read these carefully and follow the recommendations for insertion, removal and cleaning.
• Experiment with different options: Not every product fits everyone. Test different brands and sizes to discover what fits your body best.
• Give it time: As with any new product, it may take some time to get comfortable with reusable menstrual products. Give yourself space to get used to it!

Switching to reusable tampons, cups and underwear offers environmental, cost and health benefits. Although it may take some getting used to, after switching, many women experience more comfort and peace of mind during their periods. By educating yourself and trying different products, you can discover what suits you best. Do you have any questions about our products or other topics? Then feel free to contact us!