Two hands: one holding a red Ruby Cup menstrual cup, the other holding disposable tampons.

Zero Waste Period

Join us in our journey toward sustainable,

plastic-free periods.

With Ruby Cup, you can reduce your environmental footprint while enjoying safe, comfortable, and reliable period products.

What’s your impact?

Did you know that the average menstruator creates around 200kg plastic waste in their lifetime using disposable period products?

That’s 50kg every 10 years!

One Ruby Cup menstrual cup lasts up to 10 years, which is only four in a lifetime.
When you compare the numbers, it’s a no-brainer.
 Make the sustainable switch and you’ll be saving the planet and money. Tempting, isn’t it?

Use the form below to insert your age and find out how much plastic waste and money you’d save by choosing Ruby Cup menstrual cup.

Discover Our Sustainable Period Products

What factors should I consider when choosing an eco-friendly period product?

  • Environmental impact & durability

    Look for products that generate minimal waste over time. Traditional disposables add up — a person may use over 10,000 disposable pads or tampons in their lifetime, many of which take centuries to biodegrade. Ruby Cup’s reusable options, like period underwear and menstrual cups, can last for years, making a big difference for the planet.

  • Health, safety & materials

    The vaginal area is one of the most absorbent and sensitive parts of the body, so what you use during your period really matters. It’s important to choose high-quality products that are rigorously tested for harmful substances. Using products free from fragrances, dyes, and harsh chemicals helps prevent irritation, dryness, and infections while keeping your natural pH balance intact.

    Menstrual cups, like Ruby Cup’s, are especially gentle on your body. They are made from high-quality medical-grade silicone and collect rather than absorb menstrual fluid, so they don’t dry out the vaginal walls or disrupt your natural flora — unlike many tampons. When used correctly and cleaned properly, menstrual cups can also lower the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) compared to tampons. If you prefer external protection, period underwear provides a soft, safe option that keeps you dry and comfortable throughout the day, even on your heaviest flow. Ruby Cup period underwear is STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certified, ensuring the highest health and safety standards.

  • Fit, comfort & suitability

    Even the “greenest” product won’t work for you if it’s uncomfortable or leaks. Consider your flow, anatomy, and lifestyle (e.g., sports, swimming, or nighttime use). The right product should feel comfortable, reliable, and easy to manage day to day.

    Some people prefer to use a menstrual cup because, even though there’s a bit of a learning curve at first, once it’s placed correctly you won’t even feel it. You can comfortably work out, swim, dance, sleep, laugh — the list is endless! Plus, cups are durable, easy to clean, very practical when travelling and can last for years. Others prefer period underwear because it’s extremely easy to use, versatile, and feels just like regular underwear — making it a great choice for those who want a simple, fuss-free option. You can also combine both products: use the cup during the day and period underwear at night, or the cup on your heaviest days and underwear on your lighter ones.

  • Cost

    Reusable products have a higher upfront cost but a much lower cost per use. A Ruby Cup can last up to 10 years, and period underwear up to 5 years, depending on care.

    A Ruby Cup is super budget-friendly — with one small investment, you won’t need to buy another period product for around a decade. Think about all the money you’ll save! With a Ruby Cup, you end up spending as little as £0.21 per month over ten years, making it one of the most affordable options in the long run. Period underwear can be a bit more expensive initially since you’ll need a cycle set of at least four pairs (and possibly more, depending on how often you do laundry). If you’re just starting out, try buying one pair first to test the fit and comfort before investing in multiples.

  • Ethical & social impact

    Sustainability isn’t just about the product itself — it’s also about how the company operates. Choose brands that support access to menstrual health, reduce stigma, and invest in education and social impact — like Ruby Cup, which donates a cup for every one sold and funds menstrual health programs around the world.

What do people in the UK say about switching to a reusable period product?

Switching to reusable products like menstrual cups, period pants, or reusable pads can feel different at first but many users find it’s worth it.

Here’s what people commonly notice after making the switch:

General Benefits:

  • Cost savings over time: After the initial investment, many people recoup the cost within 6–18 months. Cups and period pants are especially budget-friendly in the long run, as they last for years and eliminate the need to buy disposable products every month.
  • Less waste: Reducing plastic and bathroom-bin waste is a big motivator. Users often feel proud that they no longer need to dispose of 20+ pads or tampons every month, which adds up to hundreds over a year.
  • Comfort and convenience: Once you find the right fit, reusable products are often more comfortable and discreet than disposables. Cups can be worn for 8–12 hours, period underwear feels just like regular underwear, and reusable pads stay securely in place.

What users like:

  • Menstrual cups: Last up to 10 years, virtually invisible once inserted, odour-free, and ideal for sports, travel, swimming, or long days at work or school. Many users describe cups as life-changing because they are reliable and low-maintenance once you get used to them.
  • Period underwear: Extremely easy to use, just slip them on like regular underwear. Highly absorbent, perfect for overnight use, teens, or anyone wanting a simple, fuss-free solution. Can be combined with a cup on heavier days for extra protection.
  • Reusable pads: Simple to use and wash, stay in place well, and appeal to anyone who prefers a pad-style product but wants to avoid disposables.

Common concerns:

  • Menstrual cups: Can take some practice to insert and remove, and it may take a few cycles to find the right size. Some users feel uncomfortable with internal use or seeing menstrual fluid.
  • Period underwear: Requires multiple pairs to cover the full cycle, which can feel costly upfront. Changing mid-day outside home can be inconvenient, and drying may take longer in damp weather.
  • Reusable pads: You may need a set large enough for your full cycle. Some pads can feel bulky, and not all are machine washable, requiring extra care.

Practical Tips from UK Users on How to Switch to Sustainable Period Products

  • Start cups at home on lighter days to practice insertion and removal. Experiment with folds and water-based lubricant if needed.
  • Bring a small bottle of water for rinsing when out and about.
  • For period underwear or pads, rotate 3–5 pairs, wash on cold delicate cycles, and avoid fabric softener or tumble drying to maintain absorbency.
  • Consider combining products: cup for daytime, underwear at night, or underwear as backup on heavier days.
  • Check return and exchange policies: Brands like Ruby Cup offer money-back guarantees on cups and panties.