What are the best alternatives to disposable pads?

From organic cotton to sponge pads. And even menstrual panties.

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alternatives to disposable sanitary pads
In Italy, approximately 6 billion disposable sanitary pads are consumed every year. The environmental damage is enormous, and there are also health risks.
Among the toxic substances found in industrial sanitary towels there is also the famous pesticide glyphosate, produced by Monsanto and at the center of a tug-of-war over its definitive elimination. Even the World Health Organization (WHO) considers it likely to be carcinogenic. Then the ANES found traces of aromatic hydrocarbons, dioxins, and furans. All substances are carcinogenic, highly toxic, and harmful to health. In short, sanitary pads, more than just a product for women's intimate hygiene, pose a serious health risk.
To avoid both environmental damage and health risks, there are excellent natural alternatives to disposable pads: from organic cotton to menstrual cups.

Environmental damage

A modern sanitary pad is not just made of cellulose:

  • contains plastic (polyethylene, polypropylene) in the waterproof and adhesive part
  • it is often a composite material (plastics + fibers + absorbent gels)

This makes it non-recyclableIt almost always ends up in landfills or incinerators. And during production, it releases CO2, while during use, it releases microplastics.

It is estimated that, in terms of waste, approximately 100 thousand tons of disposable sanitary napkins need to be disposed of in Italy.

Risks to health

Disposable sanitary pads are considered generally safe for most people, but there are some potential risks or side effects, mainly linked to materials, perfumes and prolonged contact with the skin.

1. Irritations and dermatitis

It is one of the most common problems:

  • the intimate area is very sensitive and poorly ventilated
  • some sanitary pads contain plastics and occlusive layers
  • I can't favorite rubbing, redness, itching

The risk increases with:

  • prolonged use without frequent changes
  • already sensitive or allergic skin

2. Allergic reactions or chemical sensitivities

Some products may contain:

  • perfumes or deodorants
  • bleaches (such as chlorine derivatives, used in some cellulose processing)
  • additives in absorbent gels

These substances can cause:

  • local irritation
  • burning or discomfort
  • contact dermatitis

3. Humidity and bacterial proliferation

If the pad is not changed regularly:

  • a warm and humid environment is created
  • can increase bacteria and bad odors

This can help:

  • irritations
  • vaginal or skin infections (in predisposed subjects)

4. Possible increased risk of infections (indirect)

It is not the pad itself that “causes” infections, but:

  • prolonged use + poor transpiration
  • can alter the microenvironment of the genital area

This can help to:

  • candida
  • bacterial vaginosis (in some predisposed people)

5. “Toxic Shock Syndrome” (TSS) – very rare risk

It is more associated with swabs, but it should be mentioned:

  • caused by bacteria (Staphylococcus aureus)
  • with external sanitary towels the risk is extremely low, but not zero in theory if there is a skin infection and favorable conditions

Natural alternatives

And now we come to the most important natural alternatives to disposable sanitary pads.

  • ORGANIC COTTON

You have to be very careful: there are a number of sanitary pads circulating on the market, and even online, that claim to be organic, but in reality, they aren't. Labeling requirements are lacking, and fraud is very common. However, consumers can easily verify whether the pad is made from truly organic cotton, meaning from a fiber grown without fertilizers or chemical fertilizers. It must be odorless, fragrance-free, contain no cellulose, and must not have been treated with chemical powders.

Organic cotton pads are usually made of:

  • Layer in contact with the skin: organic cotton (soft and breathable)
  • Absorbent core: pressed cotton and/or natural cellulose
  • Waterproof layer: sometimes still present, but often from “bio-based” materials (not always completely plastic)
  • Sticker and wings: to attach it to the linen

The key difference is that cotton is:

  • grown without synthetic pesticides
  • not bleached with aggressive processes (or treated more delicately)

  • MENSTRUAL CUP

The menstrual cup is a very soft cup inserted inside the woman's body to collect menstrual flow. Being made of hypoallergenic silicone, it can be sterilized and reused. It is also suitable for people with allergies to traditional sanitary pads. It lasts for years and costs, on average, 15 euros.

  • WASHABLE ABSORBENTS

Washable pads are just like traditional sanitary pads, but they can be washed and reused. They're made from hypoallergenic materials, making them suitable for those who can't tolerate traditional pads. They can be easily machine washed (without fabric softener, which could compromise their absorbency) and last for years.

  • MENSTRUAL UNDERPANTS

These are washable absorbent panties that can be used like regular underwear. Comfortable for nighttime use, light/medium flows, or as a support for a cup/disc.

  • DIY SANITARY PADS

This is the most interesting category of natural alternatives. Just go back in time, actually moving forward in terms of health and sanitary certainties, and from a washable cloth or sponge, like our grandmothers did, you can make homemade sanitary pads. Washable, safe, and a significant savings, considering the high consumption of sanitary pads in general.

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