The best sustainable period products to have on your radar this Menstrual Hygiene Day

They shouldn’t leak, and have the added benefit of posing no risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), which although rare, is associated with regular tampon use.

3. Reusable tampon applicators

If you’re really set on using your classic applicator tampon – remember that the most damaging part to the environment is the plastic applicator you insert it with. So, look towards sustainable British fem-tech brand like DAME, whose missions are to stop billions of period products ending up in our oceans.

We’ll continue with the DAME example: since their launch, they’ve saved over 2.5million applicators being thrown away. They launched the world’s first reusable applicator tampon which comes with a zipable carrying pouch and six tampons. You use it just like your normal singe-use tampon applicator, but once you’ve inserted the tampon, you can simply rinse and wash the applicator and it’ll be ready for the next time! Oh, and it fits all tampon sizes, from a light tampon to a super-plus tampon.

Reusable Tampon Applicator Set

Lil-Lets Reusable Tampon Applicator

If you’re struggling to get on any of the above, reusable sanitary pads could be the perfect solution. Reusable sanitary towels have been revolutionising the world of eco-friendly period products since they first went mainstream, providing a sustainable and cost-efficient alternative to their single-use counterparts which you’ve been relying on for so long.

They’re generally made from bamboo or organic cotton, and work in exactly the same way your bog-standard sanitary pad does. Take the DAME reusable period pad set, for example. The core of these pads is made from a polyamide, polyester and lycra wicking layer that draws moisture away from your skin in seconds, while the top and bottom outer layers are made from super-soft natural fibres that stay comfortable against your skin (lyocell, organic cotton).

You need to change them every 4-8 hours depending on your flow, and they can be washed – after being rinsed with cold water – in the washing machine.

5. Organic cotton tampons

Featuring 100% organic, biodegradable cotton, tampons like Flo’s Organic Tampons are a more sustainable choice. They expand width-wise for increased comfort and superior leak protection, and are 95% plant-based and 100% recyclable. Even better, 5% of the profits of your purchase go to charities supporting girls and women in need.

Flo Organic Eco-applicator Tampons Regular & Super 14pk

6. Organic cotton pads

Best for nighttime flow and heavier period days, organic cotton pads like those by &SISTERS are made with sustainably-produced, natural and organic cotton which makes them totally biodegradable. They’re pH neutral which is great for sensitive skin, super absorbent and, thanks to the protective wings, have a really secure fit.

&SISTERS, Organic Cotton Pads, Heavy, 10 pack, Bleach-Free

Elsewhere, find guides to period pants for teens, period swimwear and the best bras to accompany them. For more from GLAMOUR’s Senior European Commerce Editor Sophie Cockett, follow her on Instagram @sophiecockettx.