What are the best alternatives to disposable menstrual products?

Tampons cause irritation. Pads get saturated. Panty liners pollute.

Disposable menstrual products have a lot of downsides. Their poor composition, high cost, environmental impact, and variable effectiveness are all reasons to try new solutions.

What are the alternatives to disposable, conventional menstrual products from supermarkets?

The best alternatives to disposable period products are those that are reliable, comfortable, practical, affordable, eco-friendly, and long-lasting. In recent years, the menstrual cup and period underwear have become top choices for intimate, feminine, and high-quality protection.

Why should you stop using disposable menstrual products? Are you looking for effective alternatives to pads and tampons? Tired of using period products that aren’t healthy or reliable? Louloucup brings you the best alternatives to single-use hygiene solutions.

The drawbacks of disposable menstrual products

Disposable tampons, pads, or liners have several drawbacks:

  • they pollute, they can't be recycled, and they create lots of waste, contributing to the global plastic pollution problem; 

  • they’re not always reliable and can leak, causing stains and stress (leaks, stains, overflow);

  • They sometimes contain questionable ingredients (harmful or toxic agents), and for years, brands hid the composition of pads and tampons.
  • they’re not practical, you have to remember to carry backup protection in your bag and change regularly throughout the day;

  • tampons can dry out and irritate the vagina (irritation, itching); 


  • The pad can shift, itch, or be uncomfortable;
  • the pad can produce unpleasant odors. 


The best alternative: sustainable menstrual protection

Compared to disposable, polluting feminine products, cups and period underwear are a great option: if properly cared for, they can be worn and reused for years!

Both the cup and the period panty are durable and eco-friendly. They help us avoid buying and paying for boxes of tampons and packs of pads over and over again. Still unsure? Here’s a comparison of the two main alternatives to disposable menstrual products.

The menstrual cup

Menstrual cup or cup, this sustainable internal hygiene product sits at the entrance of the vagina and efficiently collects menstrual flow. The cup can be used for all types of flow. It’s perfect for managing heavy or very heavy periods.

Athletes and swimmers love this protection because it doesn’t stick out, doesn’t leak, and doesn’t leave marks. And yes, anyone who likes tampons for their internal use will no doubt be convinced by the menstrual cup.

The cup is sterilized in boiling water and then easily inserted. It’s removed after a few hours (maximum 6 hours). It’s emptied, washed, and can be reinserted with no problem. Girls and women who are virgins can use it.

When washed and rinsed properly, a cup lasts for years! So it’s a very cost-effective investment compared to tampons.

And what about the Loulou cup?

At Louloucup, our menstrual cup is made in France from medical-grade silicone, free from BPA and latex. It’s extremely soft and comes in two models: the Classic Pink and Flexible Turquoise. Both models are available in two sizes (small or medium) to suit all menstrual flows.

Available in size S or M, our cups can be purchased with or without a sterilizer. 

The period panty

Another sustainable and responsible period protection: the menstrual underwear. What a revolution! An intimate and feminine piece of lingerie that looks pretty and absorbs period blood—what an invention!

An absorbent layer is sewn inside the underwear, giving it a certain absorption capacity without swelling. The underwear always stays discreet. You can't see the protection under your clothes. No diaper effect, no lines, no leaks. Some models are even seamless for a second-skin effect, making them completely invisible!

Unlike disposable pads, menstrual underwear doesn't produce bad odors. The fabrics are breathable. At the end of the day, simply rinse the underwear in cold water and machine wash on a short cycle at 86°F with your other laundry. It's that easy.

Keep in mind that to cover your period (which varies from woman to woman) for about 4 to 6 days, you'll need several pairs to ensure day and night protection. Note that menstrual underwear takes a while to dry because of its absorbent layer. Tumble drying is not allowed. Air drying is recommended.

And what about the Louloucup underwear? 

In addition to its two cup models, Louloucup also offers stunning period underwear that’s to die for! Super absorbent and highly effective, these menstrual panties are designed for all women: for teens (teen range starting at XXS), new moms, and plus sizes too. 

Our period underwear offers optimal protection for light, medium, and heavy flows. Some models are known for double absorption, making them ideal for heavy bleeding caused by copper IUDs.

Don’t forget about washable pads, another effective and durable reusable option that can replace disposables.

So, as you can see, alternatives exist. They’re becoming more and more popular, giving you real choices! While sustainable solutions may cost more upfront, they’re a smart investment that pays off quickly.

With Louloucup, you’re guaranteed safe menstrual products with clean ingredients. The best part? Our fully customizable packs with sliding scale pricing and always free shipping!