Is it really worth buying biodegradable sanitary napkins?
It’s a question we all face sooner or later: is it really worth it to buy biodegradable sanitary napkins?
Some people might say that there’s no point in spending the extra money on something that doesn’t really make a difference, but others might swear by the environmental benefits of using biodegradable napkins. So who’s right?
As it turns out, both sides have a valid point. Biodegradable sanitary pads are more expensive than their conventional counterparts, but they do offer some real advantages when it comes to environmental impact and other health benefits.
If you’re still on the fence about biodegradable pads, this blog post is for you. We’ll take a closer look at “what is a biodegradable sanitary napkin?”, “What are the pros and cons of using these products?”, and “Is it really worth it to buy them?”
What Are Biodegradable Sanitary Napkins?
Sanitary napkins that are made with natural, sustainable materials and that decompose quickly are known as biodegradable sanitary napkins. Most conventional sanitary pads are made with plastic and other synthetic materials that can take years to break down. These pads often end up in landfills, where they contribute to pollution. They can also leak chemicals into the environment that can cause health problems for people and animals.
The best raw material used for making these degradable pads is bamboo and organic cotton. Bamboo grows very quickly and does not require the use of pesticides or fertilizers. Bamboo is also naturally anti-bacterial. Other sustainable materials that are sometimes used to make biodegradable sanitary pads include cotton, banana fiber, corn starch, hemp, and flax.
Due to increased awareness about climate change in the world, several other menstrual hygiene products i.e. tampons, menstrual cups, and panty liners are now being made with eco-friendly materials.
What are the Advantages of Biodegradable Sanitary Napkins?
There are several advantages to using compostable sanitary pads. Perhaps the most important advantage is that they are much better for the environment as well as for the human body than conventional pads. They will not end up in landfills, and they will not release harmful chemicals into the air, water, or soil. Besides that, the following are some of the other prominent benefits of these Eco-friendly pads:
Free from plastic
One of the modern day’s environmental concerns is plastic pollution. Most of the sanitary pads available in the market have plastic backing. On the other hand, these compostable eco-friendly pads are made with raw materials like bamboo fiber, banana fiber, organic cotton or corn starch, which decompose quickly and do not cause pollution.
Chlorine-free
The good thing about chlorine-free sanitary pads is that they do not have bleached fibers. This means that the chances of developing skin rashes or other allergic reactions are very low.
Anti-bacterial properties
Most of the biodegradable fibers that are used in the making of these pads have anti-bacterial properties. This helps in preventing infection and keeps the area around the vagina clean and healthy. One example of such natural bio-degradable fiber is bamboo fiber, which is known to have several anti-bacterial properties.
Pollution free
One of the biggest concerns of environmentalists is the pollution caused by non-biodegradable pads. They often end up in landfills where they take years to decompose and pollute the soil and water in the process. On the other hand, eco-friendly pads decompose quickly and do not cause any pollution to the land, marine environment, and air.
Hypoallergenic
Many women experience allergic reactions to the chemicals and synthetic materials used in conventional sanitary pads. These allergies can cause skin irritation, rashes, and other problems. However, biodegradable sanitary pads are made with natural materials that are less likely to cause allergic reactions. Moreover, pads made with biodegradable material are more breathable than conventional pads, which also helps to reduce the risk of skin irritation.
Comfortable to wear
Biodegradable sanitary pads are usually made with soft, natural materials like bamboo and cotton. These materials are gentle on the skin and do not cause irritation or allergic reactions like some synthetic materials can. Moreover, they are more absorbent than conventional pads, which means you can wear them for longer periods of time without feeling uncomfortable.
Promote healthy pH levels
The vagina is a delicate environment, and it is important to maintain healthy pH levels in order to avoid infections. Some conventional sanitary pads can disrupt the vagina’s pH levels, but this is not a concern with biodegradable pads.
Reduce odor
The natural materials used in biodegradable sanitary pads are often effective at reducing period odor. This is because they allow air to circulate more freely than synthetic materials do.
So these are some of the advantages of using biodegradable sanitary pads over conventional pads. Now, let’s move on to the other side of the coin and take a look at some of the disadvantages of these pads.
Disadvantages of Biodegradable Sanitary Napkins
Although biodegradable sanitary napkins offer several advantages over conventional pads, there are also some disadvantages that you should be aware of. The following are some of them:
Expensive
Perhaps the most significant disadvantage is that they are more expensive than conventional pads. This is because they are made with natural materials, that are not commonly used in the manufacture of pads. As a result, the production costs are higher, and this is reflected in the price of the pads.
Not widely available
At present, biodegradable sanitary pads are not widely available, and you may have to search for them online or in health food stores. However, as awareness of their benefits increases, it is likely that they will become more widely available in the future.
Less absorbent
Another disadvantage of biodegradable sanitary pads is that they are not as absorbent as conventional pads as they don’t contain SAP. This means that you may have to change them more often, which can be inconvenient.
Bulkier & thicker
compostable pads are usually thicker and bulkier than conventional pads, which can make them uncomfortable to wear. Moreover, they may not fit as snugly in your underwear, which can also be a problem.
So, these are some of the advantages and disadvantages of biodegradable menstrual pads. As you can see, there are both pros and cons to using these pads. So it’s time to answer our one million dollar question i.e. “Is it worth buying these compostable pads?”
Is it worth buying biodegradable sanitary pads?
This is a difficult question to answer as it depends on the individual circumstances of every woman. If you have sensitive skin or are allergic to the synthetic materials used in conventional pads, then a biodegradable sanitary pad may be a good option for you. Moreover, if you are concerned about the environment, then these pads may also be a good choice. However, you should bear in mind that they are more expensive than conventional pads and may not be as readily available. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!
How to choose the right biodegradable sanitary pad?
With so many different types and brands on the market, it can be tricky to know which one is right for you. However, there are a few things that you can keep in mind that will help you to make the best decision. The following are some tips for choosing compostable pads:
Consider your needs
First of all, it is important to consider your own needs when choosing a biodegradable sanitary pad. Think about how heavy your flow is, how often you need to change your pad, and whether or not you have any allergies or sensitivities. These factors will help you to narrow down your options and choose the best pad for you.
Read reviews
Another great way to choose the right biodegradable sanitary napkin is to read reviews. There are many websites that allow users to leave reviews of products, and this can be a great way to get unbiased opinions. Simply type “biodegradable sanitary napkins” into your favorite search engine, and then take a look at some of the results. You should be able to find plenty of reviews that will help you to make a decision.
Ask around
Finally, don’t forget to ask your friends, family, and even your doctor for advice. Chances are, someone you know has already tried these compostable napkins and can give you their opinion. Alternatively, your doctor may be able to recommend a good brand or type of pad for you.
So, these are some tips for choosing the right biodegradable sanitary napkin. Keep these pointers in mind, and you should be able to find the perfect pad for you.
Conclusion
So, there you have it! Everything that you need to know about biodegradable sanitary napkins. We hope that this article has been helpful and that you now have a better understanding of these pads. Remember, if you are considering switching to eco-friendly biodegradable sanitary napkins, it is important to think about your own needs and circumstances. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!
