Period products have come a long way in the last decade. What used to be a choice between oversized and bulky pads or dry as dirt tampons is now period-proof underwear in stylish cuts and colours, reusable pads and life-changing menstrual cups. But while it feels like we went from the latter to the current offerings overnight, many of these sustainable alternatives have been in the making for decades, if not centuries. And if we’re talking about the reusable pad, well that was the OG of sustainable period products. Today’s offering is certainly the most inclusive, with disposables and reusables of many types being commonplace in the market. So if you’re looking to reduce your impact and avoid disposable period products, you’re well and truly covered. Here’s our top picks for sustainable period products in Australia.
Modibodi
Say goodbye to your monthly disposables, Modibodi provides period-, leak- and sweat-proof performance underwear. The brand uses high quality, tech-savvy fabrics (like bamboo, Merino Perform Wool and Microfibre) and the latest in breathable, antimicrobial fibres with a stain resistant lining for modern periods and leaks. Phew! On a sustainability level, moving away from disposables is highly favourable and these innovative undies are at the forefront of that. To that I say 100% #yasss. Shop Modibodi here.
Hannahpad
If you’re keen to stick with something a little more traditional, Hannahpad has your undies covered. Hannahpad is made from certified organic cotton that does not contain chemicals such as bleach, dioxin, fragrances and formaldehyde. It is also washable and reusable – meaning less waste in landfills and waterways, healthier on your body and is a cost-effective solution that saves money in the long run. As a bonus, the reusable pads come in really lovely patterns to brighten up your day.
The Hello Cup
Swap out about 36 tampons every period for one cup you can use all year round. The Hello Cup is a menstrual cup available in inclusive sizing from extra small to large. Hello Cups are made from the highest quality medical-grade TPE (thermoplastic elastomer) available. Hypoallergenic and recyclable, they contain no nasties and are free of silicone, rubber, latex, BPAs and heavy metals. The cups have a unique smooth design and internal rim, and are available in a number of colours. The brand also has reusable liners for lighter period days. The Hello Cup is made in New Zealand.
Myoni
Available in two sizes, Myoni cup is the simple, funky, environmentally friendly and ethical way to manage (and even embrace) your period. The menstrual cup is made from safe medical grade material featuring a sleek design for easy insertion and unique pouring lip, making it easy to empty. It comes with a cute little neoprene case to keep clean between periods. The Myoni cup is ethically made in Australia with love. The brand is committed to giving 50% of profits to community partners.
Britt’s List readers can get 10% off Myoni cup with code Brittslist10 at Myoni.love.
Bamboo Babe
Bamboo Babe makes female hygiene products such as panty liners and pads from 100% organic bamboo. Unlike traditional pads and liners, the Bamboo Babe products breakdown in just 180 days and are free from traditional plastics, perfume, latex, elemental chlorine, pesticides and irritating ingredients. Most importantly they are top quality, ultra-thin with superior absorbency performance.
TOM Organic
TOM Organic brings a whole range of sustainable period management options to the list. The brand started with its range of organic cotton liners, pads and tampons to suit a range of flows, and has since expanded to include period underwear and menstrual cups. TOM’s menstrual cups are manufactured here in Australia with 100% Medical Grade silicone. The cup comes with a hard case and a little fabric bag making it easy to transport between wears or keeping on you for emergencies. It has little indents around the base making it easy to grasp and turn for suction when you put it in. The majority of the TOM Organic range is available at good pharmacies.
JuJu
JuJu has you covered for all sustainable periods, with clear, no fuss menstrual cups available in four different sizes, reusable pads and liners, and period-proof underwear. The products are made in Australia and JuJu’s packaging is designed and printed locally, using recyclable paper and plant-based inks. Only good juju here.
Read next: 6 Sustainable Brands for Period Underwear
