Active living
Reusable period underwear: Five benefits on why they are better for you
Say goodbye to waste and discomfort during your period! Reusable period underwear are transforming menstrual health with their sustainable and skin-friendly benefits.
The menstrual cycle can be an unsettling time for women of various age groups, and the market for period products is being reshaped drastically.
This is where HARTMANN Direct and MoliCare® have come forward to provide a new solution in reusable period underwear. But how do they work, can they sit comfortably under your everyday clothing, and what benefits do they offer compared to other options in the shops? In this article, we will answer all these questions and more, as we explore the advantages of reusable period underwear.
Key points
- Discover the benefits of switching to reusable period pants.
Understand the environmental advantages of reducing menstrual waste.
Compare the cost-effectiveness of reusable options versus disposables.
Explore the comfort and convenience of reusable menstrual products.
Learn practical tips on looking after reusable period underwear.
What are reusable period pants?
Traditional disposable menstrual products, such as pads and tampons, are used to manage periods which contribute significantly to environmental degradation. They are not only a major source of waste in landfills but also in water systems worldwide. Millions are thrown away each year, when disposed of (most commonly) in a sewage and landfill, they will take years to fully decompose.
This is where the BIG difference comes in - reusable period pants like MoliCare® Absorbent Underwear, offer a sustainable and cost-effective alternative.
By opting for reusable period underwear, you significantly cut down on waste and help protect the planet. In an era where we are pushing for more eco-friendly and innovative solutions to reduce our carbon footprint as well as household wastage, washable period underwear is the next step forward.
Additionally, one pair of underwear can be used as many times as your usual underwear, presenting significant cost-saving over time, especially for those who are looking to save money
Unique features of washable period underwear
Reusable period products are designed to meet the needs of women at menstruation age, providing comfort without the waste.
They are just as easy to use as their disposable counterparts and can be adapted to fit different body types and flow levels. This adaptability ensures that everyone can find a comfortable fit, making periods less of a hassle and more manageable.
Are you experiencing unusual changes with your menstrual cycle? Learn about the symptoms of perimenopause for peace of mind.
Five health benefits of reusable period underwear
Switching to reusable period underwear can provide benefits versus disposable tampons and sanitary pads:
1. Comfort
For women having their monthly period, comfort is important.
On average, a woman experiences 450 menstrual cycles throughout her life, each lasting anywhere from two to seven days. The materials and fit of menstrual products are essential in ensuring comfort during this time.
Our reusable period pants are crafted from elastane and polyester materials, which are not only absorbent but also ensure comfort against the skin.
2. Reduced risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
Unlike tampons, which can increase the risk of TSS through prolonged use and minor abrasions, reusable period products like MoliCare® Absorbent Underwear are safer options.
3. Skin friendly
Reusable period pants are generally gentler on the skin.
Since they are made from materials like elastane and polyester, they minimise the risk of irritation, rashes, and dermatitis.
To further protect your skin from underwear irritation or incontinence, opt for our skin care range.
4. Cost-effectiveness
Addressing the economic aspect of menstrual health, reusable period products stand out as a financially sustainable option.
In the UK, the average woman spends approximately £13 per month on disposable menstrual products, which adds up significantly over a lifetime (and this is if there are enough inside each box to last per month!). In fact, many people are pushing for tampons and other period products to be made free in the UK.
Although reusable period products cost slightly more initially, they last as long as regular underwear, making them a more economical choice in the long term. This is especially important in lessening period poverty, an issue prevalent even in developed countries, where a significant number of individuals cannot afford basic sanitary products.
5. Convenience
Another credible feature about reusable period products, alongside our other MoliCare® incontinence products, is that they excel in convenience.
Once you have a set of washable period underwear, you will have the confidence of always having a pair available at home, thereby eliminating frequent trips to the supermarket that can occur when having to purchase disposable products.
These products are not packaged in plastic, are lightweight, and do not require special disposal methods, which is particularly advantageous during travel or outdoor activities.
What’s more, these pants can be changed quietly and easily, without the noise and wastage of plastic packaging. This makes them a discreet option for public restrooms or situations where privacy is limited.
Concerns about the cleanliness of reusable menstrual products are often based on myths. Reusable underwear is designed for easy cleaning and are as hygienic as any other menstrual product when washed correctly.
Period blood, contrary to common misconceptions, is not inherently unclean, and reusable products offer a safe way to manage menstrual hygiene without contributing to environmental waste.
Are reusable period products hygienic?
One common concern about switching to reusable period products is the uncertainty surrounding hygiene. This concern is completely natural given the nature of the underwear but, just like everyday underwear, reusable period underwear can be washed with ease and can be re-used as often as you would wear your regular underwear. It's important to clarify that reusable period underwear are indeed hygienic options for managing menstruation. The cleanliness of these products is as manageable as any other personal laundry item, provided they are cared for properly.
Introducing washable period underwear
With our innovative features designed to offer unparalleled comfort, hygiene and environmental benefits, we are setting new standards within the incontinence industry. Here’s a look at the benefits that set these products apart:
Advanced absorbency levels, holding as much as four tampons' worth of fluid.
The pants are discreet and invisible under clothing, making them suitable for everyday wear without compromising on style or comfort.
Opting for these reusable products results in less waste, reducing landfill waste dramatically.
The underwear is designed to be washed at 60°C and is dryer safe, ensuring that they can be cleaned effectively at high temperatures without the use of biocides.
Crafted to withstand frequent washing, these products can be laundered as often as normal underwear without losing their integrity or absorbency.
Struggling with female incontinence? Discover a variety of products designed for comfort and confidence at HARTMANN Direct.
FAQs
How long can I wear a pair before washing?
You can wear reusable period pants for up to 8-12 hours, depending on your flow. However, it's essential to change them more frequently during heavier flow days to maintain hygiene and comfort.
Can period pants replace other menstrual products?
Depending on your flow, period pants can either replace pads and tampons or be used as a backup for extra protection. For very heavy flow days, some might prefer to use them alongside other products.
Are reusable period products eco-friendly?
Yes, reusable period pants are an eco-friendly alternative to disposable products. By using them, you reduce waste and environmental impact associated with traditional disposable menstrual products.
NHS. (2008) Overview: Periods. [online] Available at: https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/periods/ [accessed 06/09/2024]
GOV.UK. (2023) UK statistics on waste. [online] Available at: https://www.gov.uk/government/statistics/uk-waste-data/uk-statistics-on-waste [accessed 06/09/2024]
Citron Hygiene. (2022) 5 Reasons Why Period Products Should Be Free. [online] Available at: https://www.citronhygiene.co.uk/resources/why-provide-free-period-products [accessed 06/09/2024]