Often we tend to focus on the less pleasant parts of menstruating and forget to take care of our bodies that are hard at work. As moms and partners and sisters and friends, we’re often too busy putting the needs of others above our own.
But your time-of-month can be a great reminder to take extra care of yourself. And one of the best ways to care for your beautiful body is to choose safer personal care products, like reusable panty liners. But what exactly are they, and how do they work?
What Are Reusable Panty Liners?
If you're new to the exciting world of reusable panty liners or are in search of a better brand, then you have come to the right place.
Most of us ladies grew up with disposable feminine hygiene products. It seemed that the only option was to go to your local drugstore and purchase what was available: plastic-backed, chlorine-bleached, white cotton disposables, sometimes with a funky perfume. Not only did the cost of buying them month after month quickly add up, but they could be very uncomfortable to wear.
Reusable cotton panty liners on the other hand are reusable alternatives to disposable menstrual products like tampons, liners, or disposable sanitary napkins. They are also called cloth menstrual liners, mama cloth, or cloth sanitary liners, and are very easy to use. One common question many people have when considering this option is "are reusable panty liners safe?" Rest assured, our panty liners are made of breathable materials gentle on your body and environment.
6 Benefits of Reusable Panty Liners
#1 You’ll Save Money
The first benefit that comes from switching to reusable panty liners is that, in the long run, you’ll save quite a bit of money. Disposable sanitary products can get really expensive over the course of how often you’ll use them.
Although all reusable products do involve an initial monetary investment, reusable panty liners like ours can be used for a lengthy three to five years before they will need to be replaced. The average woman used roughly 240 disposable menstrual products per year. By making the switch to reusable panty liners, you’ll potentially save the use of around 2400 disposable products over the course of ten years!
Consider the sheer amount of waste involved in those statistics, not only in terms of the product itself, but also in terms of packaging, both individually and collectively.
#2 They Are Better For Your Body
The majority of disposable menstrual products are made from plastic and contain quite a few chemicals. Not only can these cause irritation, but they also present various health risks. With that in mind, we pose the question -- do you really want so many chemicals in such a sensitive area?
Another health risk that disposable feminine hygiene products carry is the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). This illness is serious and can be fatal. And while we won’t go into all the details about it here, it’s something that all tampon users should be aware of. Reusable panty liners are made without the use of any harsh chemicals and are a much safer alternative to disposables.
(Of course with the exception of our unscented panty liners, which we made a point to be simple, organic, and all-natural.)
#3 They May Help To Reduce the Chance of Menstrual Cramps, Infections, and Skin Rashes
If you happen to suffer from intense pain during your period and are using disposable feminine hygiene products, consider using alternatives like 100% organic cotton panty-liners. Disposable pads use plastics, which block airflow to your vagina, and not surprisingly, can encourage a painful rash.
Additionally, disposables also use synthetic fibers like rayon, which may be super absorbent, but that’s not exactly a good thing. Disposables made with rayon will not only absorb your flow but absorb all the moisture in your vagina, which can greatly increase your chances of severe pain and infections -- especially if you’re wearing one for hours, all day, all week.
#4 They Are Good For The Planet
Believe it or not, the average woman will use 12,000 to 16,000 pads, panty liners, and tampons in her lifetime. That’s quite a bit of waste when you really think about it!
Sad, but true: the most common trash items found on North American beaches are plastic tampon applicators, so this is clearly a pretty big issue we’re having. The plastic in disposable feminine hygiene products will take hundreds of years to decompose, and the process of manufacturing these disposables also pollutes our waterways, air, and animal habitats. Switching to reusable panty liners can make a difference.
#5 Reusable Panty Liners Are Comfortable
Okay, so this should honestly warrant a higher placement on the list, but here we are. Reusable panty liners -- especially the ones here at Rael -- are extremely lightweight and comfortable.
Ladies, you know that itchy, plastic-y feeling that comes from sitting in a disposable panty-liner, right? Well, when you switch to reusable feminine hygiene products like our 100% pure cotton panty liners, you can kick that urge to itch directly to the curb. Say goodbye to feeling uncomfortable and hello to Rael.
#6 They Are Sanitary and Won’t Leak
While discussing reusable options, one is inevitably faced with the questions: “will it leak?” and “is it clean?” Many reusable panty liners have a waterproof lining sewn inside and are capable of helping you to feel and smell fresh throughout the day. It may be a tad bulkier, but occasional bulk is infinitely better than a lifetime of health problems. With the right maintenance, reusable period products like panty-liners are just as sanitary.
How to Use Reusable Panty Liners
Using reusable panty liners is simple and easy once you get the hang of it. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Choose Your Liner
Start by picking the reusable panty liner that’s best for your needs. Whether you’re using it for light flow, daily discharge, or as a backup to a menstrual cup or tampon, make sure you choose one that fits comfortably and securely.
Step 2: Position the Liner
Just like a disposable panty liner, place your reusable liner inside your underwear, with the absorbent side facing inward against your skin. Most reusable liners have wings that fold over the sides of your underwear to keep it in place, so be sure to position those for a secure fit.
Step 3: Wear and Go About Your Day
Once your liner is in place, simply go about your day. Reusable panty liners are lightweight and breathable, so you should feel comfortable and fresh. Depending on your flow, you may need to change the liner 2-3 times a day, or as needed.
Step 4: After Use
When you’re ready to change your liner, simply remove it and store it in a small wet bag or pouch until you’re able to wash it. If you're out and about, keeping a spare liner handy is always a good idea.
How to Choose the Right Reusable Panty Liner for You
Not all reusable panty liners are created equal, and with so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to know which one will work best for you. When choosing the right panty liner, consider the following factors:
- Material - Some panty liners are made from organic cotton, while others may contain blends of other natural fibers. Organic cotton is often the best choice for your skin and the environment.
- Absorbency - Depending on your flow, you may want a liner with more absorbency. Some liners are designed to handle light discharge, while others are more substantial for a heavier flow.
- Size and Fit - Panty liners come in various sizes. Make sure to choose one that fits comfortably and securely, without shifting throughout the day.
- Washability - Check how easy the liners are to clean. Most reusable liners are machine washable, but you may want to confirm whether air-drying or machine drying is recommended for longevity.
What’s The Difference Between Regular and Organic Cotton Panty Liners?
Well, for starters, organic panty-liners are made of fabric that was grown without the use of any insecticide, herbicide, or pesticides.
Cotton is, unfortunately, one of the most chemically intensive crops in the world. Each year, cotton producers use nearly $2.5 billion worth of pesticides -- more than 10 percent of the world’s pesticides and nearly 25 percent of the world’s insecticides.
Pesticides used on cotton -- even when used according to instructions -- harm people, wildlife, and the environment. These pesticides can poison the hard-working farm workers, drift into neighboring communities, contaminated ground and surface water, and kill beneficial insects and soil microorganisms.
Organic panty liners are superior to conventional panty-liners because the cotton is made following the strict organic farming guidelines and doesn’t include any harsh chemicals. They contain an absorbent cellulose core rather than harmful synthetic materials, which locks away menstrual fluid to keep you dry, and an oh-so-soft organic cotton cover that allows your skin to breathe.
How Many Reusable Panty Liners Do I Need To Start With?
How many reusable panty liners you’ll need, though, really depends on your unique body and your lifestyle.
To start, some people like to gradually introduce reusable panty liners alongside their usual disposable products. This may allow you a more comfortable transition. It also allows you the chance to use up the rest of the disposable products you already have.
Okay, but how do you wash them?
The easiest way to clean your panty liners is to just toss them into the washing machine. You can wash them on warm or cold settings; just be sure to avoid using hot water if you want to avoid setting stains. If you are less concerned with stains and more concerned with sanitizing your panty liners, feel free to use hot water. Some even boil their panty liners!
Once your panty liners are done washing, you can either air dry them or tumble dry them on the low setting. Many people find they get the best results if they soak the pads before washing in cold water, particularly if there is any dried blood or discharge on the pad.
A Final Word
Periods are perfectly normal. But what’s not normal is all the horrible chemicals that make up conventional personal hygiene products these days. From synthetic ingredients and pesticides to harsh fragrances and everything in between, conventional menstrual pads are not good for you.
The next time you’re shopping for panty-liners, consider organic cotton options, and purchase from a company with a true passion for providing clean feminine hygiene products. Caring for humankind is all a part of Rael’s nature!
(And if you’re not quite ready to transition to reusable panty liners, we’re happy to offer 100% organic cotton cover disposable panty liners, too.)
Sources:
- Toxic Shock Syndrome - Symptoms and Causes | Mayo Clinic | Accessed on January 6, 2025
- Cotton and Pesticides | National Wildlife Preservation | Accessed on January 6, 2025