I need some advice. For context: I don’t like tampons and I learned about the chemicals in pads and I didn’t like what I learned.
So… I wanted to buy these period underwear that was advertised but I’m having trouble knowing if they are safe. A lot of period underwear contains what they call “forever chemicals” or PFAS. I have a pair of period underwear I have been using but I noticed it says to throw them away after 30 washes. I assume these have the chemicals I want to avoid because it does say 5% of the underwear is a synthetic fabric. I looked up the brand and it said some of the products tested positive for PFAS.
I just want something that works and also doesn’t have the stupid toxic chemicals. I don’t care if the underwear stains because these are just for when I’m on my period, and I do wash them in the machine. The underwear with PFAS breakdown faster as well so they just seem useless to me.
I wasn’t sure if this was the place to ask. I am tired of the microplastics in everything. I’m trying to avoid them. Anybody know any brands that fits what I’m looking for? I appreciate any suggestions. So far the brands Thinx and Knix are ruled out. Thinx seems to be the worst one.
Reusable period underwear recommendations? (without PFAS)
byu/cinnamonghostgirl inFrugal
Posted by cinnamonghostgirl
10 Comments
Unless is 100% cotton, you are going to deal with PFAS. And even if is cotton, may still be an issue with packaging and color dyes.
There are some things that are reasonable to avoid PFAS and there are some things that are overkill. This is the latter.
Forever chemicals are in almost everything now. I’d honestly find a brand that works for you and just go with that.
Check out Kayaness
As others said I don’t think it will be possible to find an option that is 100% free of PFAs. If your primary concern is avoiding PFAs, have you looked at all natural/100% cotton pads or tampons? I’m not sure about pads brands, and pads are definitely trickier because the adhesive has to be synthetic, but I know there are several for tampons that I see at the drug store and probably more at a speciality store or Whole Foods. If you’re open to it, the most surefire way to avoid the PFAs in period products issue is to forgo period products. Thanks to birth control I haven’t had a period in years and it’s saved so much money, pain, and stress.
When I used to have a period, I used period cups. Saved me a ton of money and it’s just made of silicone. Takes a few periods to get used to it though. Not sure if you are willing to consider it if you don’t like tampons?
I’m sorry I can’t suggest any period underwear. Best of luck.
Aisle purports to be PFAS free with an asterisk, so do with that what you will.
I bought 8 pairs 4 years ago and while the absorbency has remained excellent, the elastic has just started to die this year on a couple of pair. I never put mine in the dryer which I believe helped the elastic last as long as it has.
I will also say that their “Boost” pads are a waste as they don’t fasten to the underwear and end up sliding around. Still, I have a very heavy period and haven’t experienced a leak on my sheets or clothes in four years.
You could also try posting on r/plasticfreeliving
Why not use something like a diva cup?
I liked my thinx cotton period briefs
Period.co