The Ultimate Guide to Non-Toxic Period Products (that ACTUALLY work)
Overwhelmed by all the claims about “toxic” period products? Not even sure where to start?
This post shares some of the concerns about conventional menstrual products, ingredients to look out for, and some of the healthier options for vaginal and holistic wellness!
Do you know what you’re putting in, on, and around your vagina? While it may seem like a taboo topic, or something you would rather not talk about— it’s actually really important! Conventional menstrual products have been shown to contain pesticides, synthetic fragrances, chlorine, and plastics. Not only are these ingredients not great for the environment, but they are also not great for our bodies.
Navigating the world of period products can feel overwhelming, especially when you're looking for options that are both safe and effective. (Because I don’t know about you, but I am not wasting my time with “clean” products that don’t do the job). If you're curious about making the switch to toxin-free period products that don’t compromise on comfort or performance, this guide is for you!
The Problem With Conventional Period Products
Conventional period products often contain chemicals like dioxins, phthalates, and synthetic dyes. Prolonged exposure to these substances can irritate sensitive skin, disrupt hormones, and impact overall health. Toxin-free period products are made with safer materials such as organic cotton, plant-based fibers, and medical-grade silicone, ensuring you can prioritize your health without sacrificing effectiveness.
By swapping to healthier products, you can not only support your own health, but environmental wellness as well! Here are a few positive effects from making the switch:
Reduce irritation and allergies caused by synthetic chemicals.
Decrease exposure to hormone-disrupting substances.
Support sustainable practices, benefiting the planet.
I have a list at the bottom of this blog post that includes all the ingredients to look out for when shopping for your period products!
The Best Toxin-Free Period Products (My Tried + True FAVES)
These are all products I have personally tried while on the hunt for the very best products for menstrual care and holistic health!
Organic Tampons
Cora Organic or L. (both these links head to their tampons with plastic applicators— personally, I really do not like cardboard or applicator-free options. Because the applicator is plastic, I make sure they are BPA-free. )
Made from 100% certified organic cotton.
Free of chlorine bleach, fragrances, and pesticides.
Hypoallergenic, making them ideal for sensitive skin.
Organic Pads + Panty Liners
Rael pads- these were my absolute favorite to include in my DIY postpartum recovery kit! Organic cotton, no leaks, and durable while still being comfy 👏
Reusable Menstrual Cups
Saalt Menstrual cup- I started using a menstrual cup back in 2018 and immediately loved it. But I will admit— they do come with a bit of a learning curve! Since having babies, I was a bit out of practice with the insertion and removal and am just now getting back into the swing of things and feeling comfortable again with it. Here are some of my favorite aspects to using a menstrual cup:
Made from medical-grade silicone.
Long-lasting (up to 10 years with proper care).
Sustainable and cost-effective- no waste and saves so much money on pads and tampons over time
Comfortable once you find the right fit.
Personally, I use a menstrual cup during the day and then use a tampon and period underwear while sleeping. You can wear a cup while sleeping, but I have just never found it to be very comfortable.
Period Underwear
Knix- I have tried, no joke, half a dozen period underwear in the last several years. This high-waisted pair are the only one that I actually find to be comfortable and leave me feeling dry.
Designed with multiple absorbent layers to prevent leaks.
Free of harmful chemicals like PFAS.
Comfortable for everyday wear
Reusable Pads
I have never used a reusable pad…. It is probably for the same reason I do not use cloth diapers. The idea of sustainability and reducing waste sounds great. Ultimately, in this season, I am all about adding convenience to my life. I do not need any extra laundry 🤪 I went through some of the most popular brands and if I were to ever try some, it would be these ones.
Tips for Transitioning to Toxin-Free Period Products
Sometimes it can feel really overwhelming swapping to new products— so here are some tips to make the process a little easier!
Start Slowly: Introduce one toxin-free product at a time to determine what works best for your flow and comfort level.
Read Labels: Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) or FDA approval for peace of mind.
Experiment with Sizing: Finding the right size or absorbency is crucial, especially for reusable options like cups and underwear.
Maintain Proper Hygiene: Wash reusable products according to the manufacturer's instructions to ensure longevity and cleanliness.
Stress less: I think a lot of people interested in “clean living” do more harm than good by living in constant stress about their products. Take a deep breath, do a bit of research, and make the right decision for you and your personal health goals.
Ingredients to Avoid When Shopping for Healthier Period Products
When shopping for toxin-free period products, knowing what ingredients to steer clear of is essential. Many conventional pads, tampons, and other menstrual care items contain harmful chemicals that can irritate sensitive skin, disrupt hormones, or even harm long-term health. Here are the top ingredients to avoid:
1. Chlorine and Dioxins
Chlorine is often used to bleach pads and tampons, and this process can produce dioxins as byproducts. Dioxins are known endocrine disruptors and may increase the risk of cancer and reproductive issues with prolonged exposure.
What to Look For Instead: Products labeled "chlorine-free" or "TCF (Totally Chlorine Free)."
2. Synthetic Fragrances
Fragrances in period products are often made from undisclosed chemicals, some of which may include phthalates. These substances can irritate the vaginal area and disrupt hormones.
What to Look For Instead: Products explicitly marked as "fragrance-free" or "unscented."
3. Pesticide Residues
Non-organic cotton may be treated with pesticides that leave residues in the final product. These chemicals can cause irritation and introduce toxins to the body.
What to Look For Instead: Certified organic cotton products, which are grown without harmful pesticides.
4. Plastic Components
Many pads and liners contain plastic backings, adhesive strips, and even synthetic absorbent layers. These materials can trap heat and moisture, increasing the risk of irritation and infections.
What to Look For Instead: Pads with plant-based or biodegradable materials.
5. Superabsorbent Polymers (SAPs)
Found in many disposable pads and tampons, these synthetic materials can cause dryness and irritation.
What to Look For Instead: Products with natural absorbent materials, like cotton or bamboo.
6. PFAS (Per- and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances)
Sometimes referred to as “forever chemicals,” PFAS are added to some period products for moisture resistance. These substances are linked to serious health concerns, including hormonal disruptions and certain cancers.
What to Look For Instead: Brands that test for and explicitly state their products are free from PFAS.
7. Artificial Dyes
Brightly colored products may contain synthetic dyes that can cause irritation or allergic reactions.
What to Look For Instead: Choose unbleached, dye-free products.
8. Latex
Some people are allergic to latex, which can cause discomfort or irritation if present in menstrual cups or pad adhesives.
What to Look For Instead: Check for "latex-free" labeling, especially on reusable products.
Shopping Checklist for Toxin-Free Period Products:
Look for labels like "certified organic," "chlorine-free," "fragrance-free," and "biodegradable."
Research transparency: Choose brands that disclose their ingredients and testing methods.
Avoid flashy marketing terms like "natural" without verification—check for certifications like GOTS, OEKO-TEX, or FDA approval.
By avoiding these harmful ingredients, you can ensure your period care supports your health and well-being. A little label-checking goes a long way!
Final Thoughts
As with all things, I am not about living in fear of “chemicals” but instead, making educated decisions about the ingredients I put in and on my body. Toxin-free period products can be a game-changer for your health and the environment. Whether you prefer the convenience of organic disposables or the sustainability of reusables, there’s an option for everyone to make the best choice for their own health and wellness goals.
Have you tried toxin-free period products? Let us know your favorite brands in the comments below!
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