Organic Cotton Tampons

For most people, organic tampons are better than conventional ones. Regular tampons often contain chlorine-bleached fibres, synthetic fragrances, and residues from the pesticides used during cotton growing. Eco-friendly tampons made from 100% organic cotton are free from those additives, making them a gentler, more considered option for everyday use. 

An applicator tampon comes with a casing, usually plastic or cardboard, that helps guide the tampon into place. Some people find this easier to use, particularly if they're new to tampons. Non-applicator tampons are inserted directly with a finger, produce less waste, and tend to cost a little less per use. The choice comes down to personal preference and what feels most comfortable.

Biodegradable tampons are increasingly available across the UK, and for good reason. Regular tampon applicators usually contain plastic and cannot be recycled through standard household collections. Sustainable cardboard applicators break down naturally, and organic cotton fibres compost more readily than synthetic blends. Plastic-free packaging means the low-impact credentials carry through from the product to the waste bin.

Synthetic additives, artificial dyes, perfumes, and harsh chemicals like chlorine bleach in ordinary tampons are some of the biggest causes of vaginal irritation, thrush, and bacterial vaginosis. By removing those materials entirely, certified organic cotton tampons reduce the likelihood of those uncomfortable reactions occurring. 

Flow varies from person to person and from day to day, so it's worth having a couple of absorbency levels to hand. Light is suited to the start or end of a period when flow is minimal, regular covers moderate flow, and super or super plus is there for heavier days. As a general rule, use the lowest absorbency that comfortably meets your needs, and change every four to eight hours. If a tampon feels dry or uncomfortable to remove, it's a sign to move down an absorbency. If you're finding you need to change more frequently than every two hours, move up.

Used tampons, whether organic or standard, should always go in the general waste rather than being flushed. Flushing is one of the biggest contributors to plastic pollution in waterways, particularly with standard tampons that contain plastic components.

Organic cotton non-applicator tampons are the lowest waste option overall. With no applicator to dispose of, the only thing going in the bin is the tampon itself. Biodegradable cardboard applicators can go in general waste and will break down over time, unlike plastic ones.

Individual wrappers on organic tampons are usually made from recyclable paper rather than plastic film, so those can go in your recycling. For packaging, look for plastic-free boxes which are fully recyclable once empty.

Used sustainable tampons cannot be composted at home, even when made from organic cotton, as they are classed as sanitary waste.