Transitioning to a low waste routine when it comes to your period may seem daunting, but with the resources we have today it really is the most simple route to take! While doing this drastically reduces your environmental impact, and protects your body from harmful additives, you will also save some serious cash along the way. Check out our blog on bluebird menstrual pads for a deeper dive into what is actually in our single use menstrual products (yikes!).

Here are a few tips from the Apothecary team to help ease you through this transition if you have been thinking about doing it, but aren't too sure how to go about it!

Evaluate Your Cycles And The Products You Currently Use
The best way to dive into this transition is looking at which products you buy for a "just in case I need this" and the products you are always replenishing. One of the major benefits of low waste period care is that you no longer need to keep replenishing your stash; you will always be prepared and have what you need on hand. There is a sustainable option for each and every product you would already be using in your regular routine. (Remember to always use up what you already have, or donate to charity, rather than throwing away as that is even more wasteful than using the products you already have that may not be as zero waste friendly!)

Buy The Dang Low Waste Period Product! (Yes, It Really Is This Easy)
Low waste products are becoming more widely accessible, so head on over to your closest store that carries these products. There are a plethora of different, low waste options to choose from.

These are our top favourites to start off with and set yourself up for success on your low waste period journey:

• Green Umbrella Reusable Tampon Applicator Kit: This kit is the perfect tool for starting off on your low waste journey, especially if you are wanting to stay as close as you can to what you know! Containing a reusable medical grade thermoplastic applicator and organic cotton tampon refills, you can divert 9100 plastic tampon applicators from going into the landfill. This kit is available in a regular/super style, and a super/super plus style, and also comes with a carrying case.
• The Nixit Cup or the Diva Cup: The Diva Cup is made from healthcare grade silicon and comes in 3 sizes, where the Nixit Cup (also made from healthcare grade silicon) is a 1 size fits all. Both products offer you 12 hours of leak free protection, and offer you a tampon alternative that is completely zero waste. These cups are inserted and worn internally, and then when it is time to remove, you can pinch and simply remove, dump and rinse. Voila! One of the easiest, zero waste period alternatives.
• Revol Cares Period Undies: (No, They Don't Feel Like A Diaper)These are phenomenal and most definitely a staff favourite. The inner layer of these undies are made with a cotton/bamboo blend that is absorbent, breathable & is naturally antimicrobial. Then there is a leak proof inner layer, as well as a super soft, 4 way stretch outer layer. These undies are by far the simplest, mess and hassle free option for you and your period and are available in different absorbency options and styles. If you are a big fan of free bleeding, this is how you can achieve that comfort in public without any chance of a mess.
• Bluebird Pads: If you prefer using pads during your time of the month, these pads are a wonderful alternative to cleaner products and saving money! Made from soft, breathable cotton, these pads are self explanatory, simple to wash and use! Free from lead, phthalates, BPA's, fragrances and pesticides, the dense core absorbs 10X it's weight in seconds for you to feel confident about your protection levels. These pads are available in different styles and lengths to fit each absorbency need.

The negative opinions and fears of reusable period care are real. The thoughts of "this is unsanitary" or "this is more of a hassle than disposing of the single use product" are simply untrue, (note: we are not trying to invalidate experiences in any way!). It absolutely takes some adjusting to, but it isn't all that different from the single use, disposable experience. By going low waste you can easily save money, the planet, and protect yourself from harmful additives.

If you have any further questions, send us a dm on instagram and we would be happy to provide you with any tips, tricks or pointers. Happy bleeding friends!