MENSTRUAL CUPS AND REUSABLE CLOTH PADS - WHY MAKE THE SWITCH?

What is the first thought that pops into your head when you think of menstrual cups and reusable cloth pads? 

Messy? Unhygienic? Leakage?

Well, we’ve got some good news - they're none of the above! 

We're huge advocates for using menstrual cups and reusable cloth pads. They’re brilliant alternatives to tampons and single-use pads, and making the switch is easier than you think! Plus, they're healthier for you and better for the planet.

What exactly is a menstrual cup and how do cloth pads work?

Menstrual cups aren’t new - they’ve been around for years! Recently though, they’ve become an increasingly popular alternative to tampons.

A reusable menstrual cup is a bell-shaped, flexible cup made out of medical-grade silicone or latex. It’s designed to replace a tampon during your period to collect blood flow but unlike a tampon, it’s reusable. You simply empty the cup after 6 -12 hours, wash it and insert it again.

As for reusable cloth pads, they look and work pretty much like their disposable cousins but they're made out of cloth materials to wash and use again.

Ideal for sensitive skin

Breaking out in rash down there isn’t fun - itching, swelling, and redness. Urgh! 

Rashes can be caused by the materials used in many disposable pads and tampons - including absorbent foam, wood cellulose, plastic derivatives, synthetic material called polyolefins, glue and even artificial fragrances. 

Quite the mix of potential irritants for such a sensitive area of skin. 

Many disposable pads block airflow too, not allowing the skin to breathe properly, which just compounds the rash problem. 

Oh, and if you’re feeling a little dry and uncomfortable at that time of the month, your tampon could be to blame. They can actually trigger or exacerbate vaginal dryness - especially if your period is light. 

Reusable cloth pads or a menstrual cup could solve these uncomfy dilemmas. 

Cloth pads made with natural, organic cotton are soft, allow the skin to breathe and don’t contain layers of potential irritants and synthetic materials. Meanwhile, a menstrual cup won’t trigger a dryness issue. 

If you have a latex allergy, be sure to choose a menstrual cup made from medical grade silicone. 

They’re a more eco-friendly choice

Around the globe, over 12 billion disposable menstrual products are used per year, ending up in landfills or waterways. 

By opting for a menstrual cup or reusable cloth pads, you’re choosing a far more eco-friendly option. You’ll cut the number of single-use items you throw away each month, and do your little part for a healthier planet.

These small, personal choices to choose a more sustainable option really do add up.

They’re cleaner and easier than you think!

I know what you’re thinking…..

...won’t they smell?

...will I feel dirty?

…what about leakage? 


Put your fears to rest! 

When used and cared for properly, menstrual cups and reusable cloth pads won’t leak, are completely hygienic, and very comfortable.

A menstrual cup may take a little getting used to at first and inserting it correctly for no leakage can take some practice. 

It’s a good idea to use a cloth pantyliner as well for the first few times, until you feel confident in placing it properly. Using a little lubricant can help too.  

Don’t worry though, once you’ve got the hang of it, your cup shouldn't leak and the process will be a total breeze. You’ll probably wonder why you didn’t make the switch sooner!

As for cloth pads, instead of adhesive glue, they have wings that snap into place - you’ll be surprised by their durability, coverage, and absorbency. 

Cloth pads also absorb sweat better and there's less bacteria buildup meaning they actually stay fresher for longer than disposable pads. 

Cleaning and caring for your reusable cloth pads is super easy and won’t gross you out at all. For the lightly used pads, simple pop them in with your laundry load. If your flow has been heavy, we recommend a cold water soak and pre-rinse before adding them to your regular laundry. 

Keeping your menstrual cup fresh is easy too. Always follow the manufacturer's instructions but typically involves washing your menstrual cup thoroughly with water and mild soap after use and before reinsertion. 

You may also choose to sterilize yours by boiling it for a few minutes before storing it away at the end of your cycle. 

We stock medical grade silicone menstrual cups that come with a super cute and hygienic drawstring bag for easy storage!

Your wallet will thank you too

Not buying a stash of pads and tampons every month means you can save your dollars for something much more fun for that time of the month. 

Like chocolate. A lot of chocolate. 

When cared for properly, reusable cloth pads and menstrual cups can last for many years. If the average woman spends around 35 years of her life buying menstrual products, that can add up to thousands of dollars saved! 

Our Day Pad Set includes 6 inserts and 3 liners - allowing for additional customization by placing one or both of the absorbent inserts inside the envelope-style holder. We recommend having about a dozen inserts in your stash.

Will you (or have you) made the switch to menstrual cups or reusable cloth pads? We'd love to know in the comments!


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Urban Oreganics Owners

About Us

Hi! We’re Cory & Emily, husband and wife, parents, and co-owners of Urban Oreganics. Over the years, we’ve developed a passion for creating an eco-friendly, minimalist lifestyle for our family. We’re always discovering new sources of inspiration and are excited to share those with you through our blog.


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1 comment

  • I switched to a menstrual cup a couple months ago. It was so simple and my fav thing is no longer do I have the wet string of a tampon after going to the bathroom. No more period starting and finding out I am out of tampons. Make the switch you will be so happy you did.

    • Jen
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