12 Organic Cotton Tampons for a Non-Toxic Period (2024)
Image: Natracare
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The Best Non-Toxic, Organic Cotton Tampons
Welcome to the ultimate guide to organic tampons!
If you're looking to switch to a healthier and more sustainable feminine hygiene option, you've come to the right place.
I’m sure you’ve heard a lot about zero-waste periods, but I understand not always wanting to use a menstrual cup or reusable pads. Some pads can be uncomfortable and menstrual cups can be hard to deal with in public restrooms. Also, if you have had children before, what may have worked for you pre-baby may not work as well post-baby, so you must try new things to find the perfect comfort.
Why Should You Use a Non-Toxic, Organic Tampon?
I've spent most of my menstrual years using Pearl Tampons, but I had no idea how toxic conventional tampons truly were. Most tampons you find today can have these toxic chemicals: aluminum, alcohols, bleach, fragrance additives, dioxin and BPA. Naturally, your vagina doesn’t want that and we don’t want our bodies absorbing these chemicals. So, let’s have a happier period with brands that care about what you put in your body and leave all that nasty stuff to the waste side.
Common Misconceptions About Organic Tampons
Despite the many benefits of organic tampons, there are still some misconceptions that surround them. Let's address a few of the common misconceptions:
1. Organic tampons are less effective: Organic tampons are just as effective as conventional tampons in terms of absorbency and leak protection. The difference lies in the materials used, with organic tampons offering a safer and more sustainable option.
2. Organic tampons are more expensive: While organic tampons may have a slightly higher price tag compared to conventional tampons, the difference in cost is typically minimal. The health and environmental benefits they provide make them a worthwhile investment.
3. Organic tampons are hard to find: With the increasing demand for organic products, including tampons, many brands now offer organic options. They can be found in health food stores, online retailers, and even some mainstream supermarkets.
By debunking these misconceptions, we hope to encourage more women to consider making the switch to organic tampons.
Our Favorite Non-Toxic, Organic Tampons:
1. Cora
Price | $10 for 16
Sizes | Light, Regular, Super, Super Plus
BPA-Free Plastic Applicators & Non-Applicators (to reduce your waste*)
Cora offers customizable boxes delivered right to your door every month so you don’t have to worry about how many tampons you have for the next cycle. Plus, with every Cora purchase, they provide pads & health education to a girl in need.
2. Rael
Price | $9 for 16
Sizes | Regular, Super
BPA-Free Plastic Applicators & Biodegradable Cardboard Applicators
These tampons are scientifically formulated with responsibly-sourced organic cotton that conforms to your body and absorbs quickly. In addition, they are crafted with Leak Locker technology and provide up to 8 hours of leak-free confidence.
3. Daye
Price | $11 for 18
Sizes | Regular, Super
Sugarcane Applicator
Daye is a female-founded gynae health start-up on a mission to close the gender health gap for good. They started with the invention of the world's first CBD tampon, designed for when your period is cramping your style. Since then, they've created bamboo-fiber pads, microbiome-boosting ProViotics, and an at-home diagnostic screening kit to help you take control of your sexual and reproductive health outcomes.
4. Lola
Price | $10 for 18
Sizes | Light, Regular, Super, Super Plus
BPA-Free Plastic Applicator
These pocket-sized tampons are made with 100% organic cotton and expand in all directions to prevent leaks. LOLA’s period protection is always free from synthetic fibers, fragrance, chlorine bleach, chemical additives, and dyes. Plus, you can customize you order on Thrive Market and receive a discount.
5. Natracare
Price | $7 for 16
Sizes | Regular, Super, Super Plus
Chlorine-Free Biodegradable Cardboard Applicators & Non-Applicators (to reduce waste)
Their pads, tampons, and wipes are made from renewable, biodegradable, and compostable materials. Natracare knows how bad the plastic problem is regarding menstrual products, so they made sure their products won’t pollute the earth for the next 500 years.
6. Oi
Price | $15 for 32
Sizes | Regular, Super, Super Plus
BioCompact Applicators, Cardboard Applicators & Non-Applicators (to reduce waste)
Oi stands for the Organic Initiative. They created this brand to help remove plastics, synthetics, toxins, and chemicals from hygiene products, starting with feminine hygiene. There is nothing to hide here!
7. Seventh Generation
Price | $8 for 18
Sizes | Regular, Super
BPA-Free Plant-Based Plastic Applicators
More than just a tampon, this is period care on a mission. Seventh Generation donates 43¢ for every pack of tampons and pads they sell in the U.S. to nonprofits helping make period care more equitable. They are also Certified B-Corp and have been offering non-toxic, green household and self-care products for over 30 years.
8. Tampax Pure
Price | $8 for 24
Sizes | Regular, Super
Plant-Based Plastic Applicators
These tampons have a smooth 90% plant-based plastic applicator with an anti-slip grip for easy insertion. They also believe no girl should have to miss school because she has her period. With each specially marked Pure pack of tampons or pads, they will donate one for a girl in need.
9. The Honey Pot
Price | $8 for 18
Sizes | Regular, Super
Bio-Plastic (Sugarcane) Applicators
The Honey Pot, A Black-owned brand, was founded by a woman who had been suffering from bacterial vaginosis for 8 months. She says, “an ancestor came to me in a dream and gifted me with a vision to heal myself.” - and thus, The Honey Pot was born!
10. Emerita
Price | $12 for 16
Sizes | Regular, Super, Super Plus
Biodegradable Cardboard Applicators
Their tampons are made of 100% certified organic cotton making them free from pesticide residues. It’s also chlorine-free because they wash the cotton with a mild hydrogen peroxide solution. I like that the applicator is made from cardboard, too.
11. My Box Shop
Price | $16 for 32
Sizes | Regular, Super, Super Plus
BPA-Free Plastic Applicators, Non-Applicators
Created by moms of teens, My Box Shop’s slogan is ‘No Toxins. Period’. They wanted to create a period line that was fun, transparent, and, most of all, clean. Their tampons are made from 100% organic cotton, are FDA and GOTS approved, and are free from chemicals, toxins & fragrance.
12. o.b. Organic Tampon
Price | $21 for 24
Sizes | Regular, Super
Plant-Based Plastic Applicator & Non-Applicators
These tampons are made with 100% certified organic cotton from tip to string and are free from chlorine, fragrances, and dyes. In addition, they feature a True-Comfort applicator which is up to 92% plant-based and made from renewable resources, but if you prefer to reduce your waste even more, go for the non-applicator!
Tips for Using Organic Tampons Safely and Effectively
Using organic tampons is relatively straightforward, but here are a few tips to ensure you use them safely and effectively:
1. Wash your hands thoroughly before inserting or removing a tampon to minimize the risk of infection.
2. Change your tampon every 4 to 8 hours to prevent the risk of toxic shock syndrome (TSS).
3. Start with the lowest absorbency level and adjust as needed. Using a higher absorbency tampon than necessary can increase the risk of TSS.
4. If you experience discomfort or irritation, consider trying a different brand or type of tampon.
5. Avoid using tampons overnight to give your body a break and reduce the risk of TSS.
6. If you have any concerns or experience unusual symptoms, consult a healthcare professional.
Following these tips will help ensure a safe and comfortable experience when using organic tampons.
Alternatives to Organic Tampons
While organic tampons are an excellent choice for many women, they may not be suitable for everyone. Fortunately, there are alternative menstrual products available that offer similar health and environmental benefits. Here are a few popular alternatives:
1. Menstrual Cups: Menstrual cups are reusable silicone or rubber cups that collect menstrual fluid. They are inserted into the vagina and can be worn for up to 12 hours. Menstrual cups are eco-friendly, cost-effective, and can last for several years with proper care.
2. Organic Cotton Pads: If you prefer pads over tampons, organic cotton pads are a great alternative. They are made from organic cotton and are free from harmful chemicals. Organic cotton pads are biodegradable and offer a comfortable and eco-friendly option.
3. Period Panties: Period panties are reusable underwear designed to absorb menstrual flow. They are made with absorbent layers that prevent leaks and can be washed and reused. Period panties are a convenient and sustainable option for those who prefer not to use tampons or pads.
These alternatives provide choices for women with different preferences and needs. Exploring these options can help you find the menstrual product that suits you best.
In conclusion, organic tampons offer a healthier and more sustainable alternative to conventional tampons. They are made from organic cotton, free from harmful chemicals, and biodegradable. By choosing organic tampons, you reduce your exposure to potential risks associated with conventional tampons and contribute to a greener future.
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