Sustainability is no longer a trend—it’s a necessity. And as conversations around conscious consumption reach our most intimate routines, menstrual products are in the spotlight. One solution leading the charge? Period underwear. Reusable, low-waste, and made to last, it’s transforming the way we bleed. Here’s why.
Rethinking Materials: What Period Underwear Is Made Of
While we haven’t yet reached a world where every menstrual product is 100% biodegradable, we’re getting close. Most period underwear is crafted from blends of cotton, polyester, and elastane, with an absorbent core made from materials like bamboo, merino wool, or synthetic fibers. In contrast, conventional pads and tampons are typically made from bleached cotton, rayon, and plastic components — including polyethylene backings and plastic applicators — many of which are not biodegradable and can persist in landfills for hundreds of years. Period underwear offers a reusable alternative that significantly reduces single-use plastic consumption and packaging waste.
At Relief Wear, we’re pushing this evolution further. Our Flo-Getter Period Underwear uses upcycled fabrics, reducing textile waste while maintaining performance.
Built to Last: The Impact of Reusability
Disposable pads and tampons create mountains of waste. According to a 2022 life cycle assessment (LCA), they generate the highest carbon emissions and environmental burden among period products. Reusables like period underwear drastically reduce that footprint — especially when cared for properly.
One pair of well-made period underwear can last 2 to 5 years. Washing on cold, line drying, and skipping fabric softeners all help preserve absorbency and elasticity. The fewer disposables you buy each month, the more waste (and money) you save over time.
Access Matters: Making Green Choices Available to All
Sustainability isn’t just about materials — it’s about access. Period underwear typically costs between €20–40 per pair, making the initial investment out of reach for many. Plus, regular washing requires access to clean water, laundry facilities, and drying space.
But that doesn’t mean we give up. A 2024 study found that low-income consumers are open to reusable products when they understand the long-term value. That’s why Relief Wear is committed to making sustainability understandable and accessible. We believe in sharing the short- and long-term benefits of our products clearly, so people can make informed choices that feel right for them. We're also exploring solidarity pricing models — like Pay What You Can — to ensure sustainable care is within reach for everyone.
How It Stacks Up: Period Underwear vs Other Products
Not all period products are created equal. Recent studies show:
⭐️ Menstrual cups have the lowest environmental impact (up to 99% lower than disposables).
⭐️ Reusable pads and period underwear follow closely behind.
‼️Disposable pads and tampons generate the most waste and emissions.
Period underwear’s break-even point — the number of uses needed to offset its environmental cost — is not yet precisely known. However, consumer attitudes suggest that a break-even point is anticipated and expected. A 2024 thesis on Vietnamese consumers found that users strongly project sustainable qualities onto period underwear, and many believe it will prove cost-effective in the long term — especially among low-income individuals who recognize the financial and ecological benefits of switching.
Additionally, data from a 2022 environmental study (Fourcassier et al.) shows that period underwear and menstrual cups scale similarly in terms of carbon emissions, water usage, and ecotoxicity — strengthening the case for reusable products overall.
And for many users, it’s more than just numbers. Period underwear offers comfort, confidence, and the flexibility to mix and match with other methods (like cups or tampons). Especially overnight, leak-proof undies offer peace of mind — no more waking up to a mess!
Designing a Circular Future: Small Changes, Big Impact
🧡 So what makes Relief Wear different? Sustainability isn’t a feature — it’s the foundation. From using upcycled and certified fabrics to developing end-of-life solutions for our garments, we’re committed to reducing waste at every stage. Our designs prioritize durability, comfort, and inclusive sizing and pricing, so more people can make the switch.
You don’t need to overhaul your routine overnight. Whether you start with one pair of period underwear or build a full set, every step counts. When you choose reusable options, you help reduce landfill waste, lower your carbon footprint, and reclaim your cycle with more comfort and care.
Sustainability isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress. With Relief Wear, you’re not just choosing a product — you’re joining a movement that puts knowledge, care, and the planet first. 🌍✨🌱
Related: How Chemicals in Disposables Might Be Aggravating Your Period Cramps
References
[1] Cox, S. (2025, March 5). What is the most sustainable period product? BBC Future.
[3] Nguyen, T. T. (2024). Period Underwear: The Purchasing Intentions of Vietnamese Women. Diva Portal
