Reusable menstrual products are becoming increasingly popular, but the switch from disposable products such as tampons and sanitary towels to reusable tampons, menstrual cups and underwear can raise questions and uncertainties. Especially if you have been used to disposable products for years. We understand that it 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 clear up 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 towels in her lifetime, which adds up to 60-90 kg of waste. These products are often not biodegradable and pollute the environment. nl Reusable products such as menstrual cups and washable underwear are more sustainable and reduce the production of disposable plastic. A good reason to make the switch!
• Cost savings: More than 40% of women think that reusable menstrual products are very expensive, but in the long term 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 euros compared to disposable products.
• Health benefits: Many disposable products contain chemicals, perfume and other harmful substances that can cause irritation or allergies. Sustainable and safe alternatives, such as reusable tampons, menstrual cups made of medical silicone and period underwear, are gentler on the skin, reduce irritation and maintain the natural pH balance of the vagina.
• Comfortable and practical: More than 30% of women think that reusable products are uncomfortable, but that is a misunderstanding. Menstrual underwear feels like normal underwear, but stays drier. A menstrual cup can stay in place for up to 8 hours without leaking – ideal for busy days, sports or traveling.

Common misconceptions about reusable menstrual products

• Lack of information
• 37% of women indicate that they have insufficient knowledge about reusable menstrual products, especially younger participants and students. A well-informed choice starts with reliable information.
• Hygiene
• 20% consider 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 hygienic guidelines, such as washing your hands and sterilizing the product regularly.
• Capacity
• 40% are unsure whether reusable products are sufficiently absorbent. In practice, they can often absorb more than disposable products. While a standard tampon absorbs about 7 ml, reusable alternatives can hold between 15 and 35 ml.
• Portability
• 76% think disposable products are more convenient for traveling. Yet reusable products are more practical: instead of having to carry multiple packs of tampons or sanitary towels, one menstrual cup or a few sets of menstrual underwear are often sufficient.
• Fear
• 80% of women are afraid that reusable products could ‘get lost’ in the body, especially since they do not have a string. However, this is not possible. The cervix is smaller than the menstrual cup, which means that it cannot go beyond its natural range. In addition, the design of the cup ensures that it remains securely in place. Removal is simple, using the handy loop that you can feel.
• Complicated transition
• 47% think that switching to reusable products is complicated. It may take some getting used to at first, but with the right information and practice, it quickly 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 sustainable, comfortable and much more economical in the long term than disposable products. Whether you choose a menstrual cup, washable menstrual underwear or reusable tampons, we have answered all frequently asked questions for you below.

1. What are reusable menstrual products?
2. Reusable menstrual products are menstrual products that you can use several times, instead of throwing away after one use. 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!

1. How long do reusable menstrual products last?

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

1. How do you use a menstrual cup?
2. A menstrual cup is worn internally and works by collecting blood instead of 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.

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

1. 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 a thorough cleaning, boil the cup in a pan for 5 minutes after your period or use our sterilizer for a quick and effective cleaning.
  • Washable menstrual underwear: First rinse with cold water and wash at 30-40°C without fabric softener and let air dry.

1. Is using a reusable menstrual product painful?
2. No, if a product has been inserted correctly, you should not feel it. It may take some getting used to at first, but with the right size and technique, most women quickly find what works best for them, without pain or discomfort.
3. Can menstrual cups leak?
4. If they are inserted correctly, no. A menstrual cup closes by creating a slight vacuum, preventing leakage. Washable menstrual underwear has multiple absorbent layers that offer up to 8 hours of protection, comfortable during the day and at night.
5. How much money do you save with reusable menstrual products?
6. On average, you save hundreds of euros per 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 sanitary towels, which quickly cost €100-150 per year, switching is a smart choice.

1. Are reusable menstrual products suitable for every woman?
2. Certainly! There are different sizes, products and materials available. Experiment and discover what you like best.
3. Can I wear period underwear to bed?
4. Yes, exactly! Menstrual underwear is ideal for the night, super soft for your skin and prevents leakage. Moreover, the underwear stays completely dry, even after a number of hours, contrary to what many women think!

How can you make the transition easier?

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

Switching to reusable tampons, cups and underwear offers advantages in terms of the environment, costs and health. Although it may take some getting used to, many women experience more comfort and peace of mind during their period after switching. By informing yourself well and trying out different products, you can discover what suits you best. Do you have any questions about our products or other topics? Feel free to contact us!