Menstrual underwear: what is it and how does it work?

In the last few months people have been talking more and more about menstrual reusable undies. We think they’re revolutionary, but we’re not alone: many people argue this is the most sustainable choice (both for you and the planet). That’s why you’ll find various options in our shop.

Here’s what you’ll find out in this article:

• What is menstrual underwear
• The main differences between the many options avaiable
• The 4 most common questions on menstrual underwear
• Discover the Menstrual Underwear category
  

Menstrual undies are a reusable alternative to disposable menstrual products: they’re just like regular undies, but with different absorbing layers on the inside that absorb blood or any other discharge (they can be used for incontinence or any other leak). 

The final layer is leak-proof, to allow you any kind of movement without risking stains or leaks.

Every undie lasts about 4-5 years. After this period they will just be less effective in terms of absorbency, so you can still use it as a daily underwear, or with a light flow.

Especially during the last year, more and more companies have decided to produce menstrual underwear, so it can be hard to understand the main differences and the best options. We’ll try to be as clear as possible!

THE FABRICS

Usually these undies are made with a mix of fabrics: one specific kind for the external layer touching the skin, and different fabrics for the absorbing and leak-proof layers.
You’re the only person who knows what’s best for you, but natural or vegetal fabrics are for sure more delicate, and more suitable for sensitive skins. Choose cotton (better if organic or recycled), tencel, eucalyptus – or beech – fabric, or bamboo for the top layer.

About the internal fabrics: in our experience there’s not much of a difference, they’re all very absorbing. 

THE ABSORBENCY

What really makes a difference is absorbency: you can find options for light leaks (they absorb just like a pantyliner), for regular, or heavy flows (like 4-5 20ml tampons).

Check this in every product in order to choose the perfect one for you!

Are they comfortable?

They really are. They’re soft on the skin, and even if they have many absorbing layers, they don’t feel like a “diaper”: they’re thicker than usual undies, for sure, but they shouldn’t feel that different.
Some people find reusable pads uncomfortable because they can move in some situations: menstrual undies solve this problem, and that’s why they’re one of the most comfortable alternatives.

Will I feel wet?

No, and that’s one other perk! Because of how they’re designed, they guarantee a dry sensation for as long as you wear them.
You may feel wet if you’ve been wearing them for many hours (more than suggested), or if you have thicker or lumpier leaks that cannot be absorbed (just as any other menstrual product). 

How do I wash them?

It’s easy: after every use, rinse them in cold water to remove most of the blood, and then put them in the washing machine (up to 40°C). Don’t use softener, and don’t put them in a dryer.
Let them air-dry and use them again!
If you want, you can also hand-wash them with a laundry soap (solid or liquid).

Tip: if you want to avoid using the washing machine after every use, you can just rinse them in cold water, let them dry and then use the washing machine once your menstruation is over. 

How many do I need?

If you want to only use menstrual undies for all your menstruation, then you’ll need at least 3.
A “heavy flow” undie can be worn for up to 12 hours, so if you want to have at least one ready to wear, then 3 is the minimum.

The number to purchase depends on the days your period usually lasts, but also on how many times you want to use the washing machine. Some people prefer having a few of them and wash them more often, some other people prefer having more, to avoid washing and drying them on a loop.