The Financial Benefits of Switching to Reusable Menstrual Products

In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift in how people view their menstrual products. Many individuals are moving away from traditional disposable options like tampons and pads in favour of reusable alternatives. But aside from the environmental and health benefits, one of the most significant advantages of switching to reusable menstrual products is the potential for long-term financial savings.

Let's break down the costs involved and examine how switching to reusable products can help you save money in the long run.

The Cost of Disposable Menstrual Products

Before diving into the savings, it's important to understand the costs associated with disposable menstrual products. On average, a person who menstruates will need about 25 tampons or pads each cycle (5 a day, 5 day cycle), depending on their flow. This means that for a typical 28-day menstrual cycle, you’ll need to restock your supply roughly every month.

Here’s a quick breakdown of the average costs for disposable products:

• Tampons/Pads: A box of tampons or pads typically costs between $6 to $10, and you might go through 3–4 boxes per cycle depending on your needs. Over the course of a year, this can add up to about $120 or more!

• Period Care Products: In addition to tampons and pads, some people also purchase other products like pantyliners (ave. cost, $6 a pack), wipes (ave. cost, $12 a pack), and even disposal bags (ave. cost, $10 a pack). These add even more to the total cost.

When we calculate these numbers over a lifespan of, say, 40 years, it’s easy to see how these recurring monthly costs can accumulate. Over time, this can amount to thousands of dollars spent on disposable menstrual products.

The Cost of Reusable Menstrual Products

Now, let’s look at the costs of switching to reusable menstrual products. Reusable options like menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period underwear are designed to last for several years, significantly reducing the need for regular repurchasing. Here’s a breakdown of the average costs for reusable products:

• Menstrual Cup: A high-quality menstrual cup typically costs between $20 and $40, depending on the brand. With proper care, a menstrual cup can last up to 10 years. This translates to just a few dollars per year, a stark contrast to the recurring costs of disposables.

• Cloth Pads: While cloth pads have a higher initial cost, typically ranging from $10 (Bear & Moo) to $20 per pad (Hello Period), they can last for many years with proper maintenance. On average, a set of 10 pads may last you anywhere from 3 to 5 years, which still provides substantial savings compared to buying disposable pads every month.

• Period Underwear: A pair of period underwear can cost anywhere from $15 (Kmart) to $40 (Awwa Period Care), and many brands offer a 3–5 year lifespan. Most users will need about 4-6 pairs to get through their period, meaning a one-time investment can last for multiple years.

The Math Behind the Savings

Let’s compare the costs over time to make the savings even clearer:

• Disposable Products: If you spend $100 per year on disposable products, over the course of 40 years, you would spend around $4,000 just on tampons, pads, and liners.

• Reusable Products:

  • A menstrual cup costing $40 will last you 10 years, which means you’re paying just $4 per year.

  • A set of cloth pads costing $150 will last about 3-5 years, so it averages out to about $30 per year.

  • Period underwear that costs $100 for a set of 5 pairs could last 3-5 years, meaning a yearly average of about $20.

When you factor in the longevity of these products, the long-term savings are undeniable. Even when you combine menstrual cups, cloth pads, and period underwear into your routine, you're still looking at a much smaller financial commitment over the years compared to disposables.

Other Financial Benefits of Switching

Beyond the direct savings on products, switching to reusable menstrual products can have additional financial benefits:

• Reduced Waste Disposal Costs: If you use disposables, you’re likely contributing to a significant amount of waste, which could eventually increase the costs associated with waste management in your area. By choosing reusable products, you’re minimising your environmental footprint, which can help reduce these indirect costs.

• Fewer Health-Related Expenses: Some disposable menstrual products, especially scented varieties, contain chemicals or synthetic materials that may cause irritation or discomfort for some people. By opting for reusable alternatives, which are often made from natural fibers or medical-grade silicone, you may experience fewer issues related to irritation and discomfort, saving you from potential medical costs down the line.

• Comfort and Effectiveness: Many users find that reusable products, such as menstrual cups or period underwear, are more comfortable and effective than their disposable counterparts, leading to fewer leaks, accidents, and product failures that can require purchasing even more products in an emergency.

Lets sum it up!

Below is an easy way to read and compare reusable products against disposable.

This table highlights the key financial, environmental, and practical differences between reusable and disposable menstrual products. Reusable products generally require a higher initial investment, but the long-term savings and reduced environmental impact make them a cost-effective and sustainable choice.

When you calculate the long-term costs of menstrual products, it's easy to see how making the switch to reusable options can save you hundreds—or even thousands—of dollars over your lifetime. Whether you choose a menstrual cup, cloth pads, or period underwear, the financial benefits of using reusable menstrual products are clear.

Not only will you be making a more environmentally conscious choice, but you’ll also be keeping more money in your pocket in the long run. It's a win-win!