Of course, you didn’t need to ask us twice to celebrate plastic-free July! As a sustainable brand who make reusable, plastic free products this is our bread and butter. 

Did you know that on average, one person uses around 11,000 disposable period products in their lifetime? In the UK this adds up to around 4.3 billion disposable menstrual products used every year. We’re on a mission to help bring that number down. 

Of course by now, we all know the importance of doing our bit to try and reduce single-use plastic waste. But it can often seem daunting and plastic free options aren’t always readily available. (Yes, supermarkets, we’re looking at you.)

As part of our commitment to a healthier planet, we’re here to share some insights as part of Plastic Free July, to showcase ways in which you can help create lasting change, throughout the year and across the globe.

Whether you're new to the idea of going plastic-free or a seasoned eco-warrior, we’ve got you covered with practical tips for making a positive change. 

Making the switch to reusable period products!

A single pack of pads contains the equivalent of about five plastic bags, and takes up to 500-800 years to decompose. This accumulates to generate around 200,000 tonnes of waste every year, most of which is plastic. This waste ends up in landfills or, worse, in our oceans.

There are some simple alternatives to help cut out this huge chunk of single use plastic, plus save you money in the process. If you haven’t tried our reusable period products before, you’ll want to hear this. 

What are menstrual cups and how do they work?

Enter the not so humble Ruby Cup, your new best friend. Seriously, if you haven’t tried a menstrual cup before as an alternative to tampons, you’re about to have your mind blown.

Our reusable menstrual cup is made from medical grade silicone. It sits inside the vagina creating a comfortable seal and collects your menstrual blood. Once inserted you can’t feel it at all, you’re completely protected, and best yet there’s no plastic applicator or packaging. The soft silicone is also much more comfortable to wear and not to mention non-drying for your intimate flora. 

The regular size cup can hold 24ml, and the medium sized cup can hold 34ml, which is about 3 times more than a tampon and pads for heavy flow. You can wear your Ruby Cup for up to 8 hours without needing to pop to the loo to change every few hours like you would with a tampon. That means that whatever your flow you can get a full night's sleep, with no interruptions!

Once full, the cup can be removed and emptied, cleaned and reinserted. If well cared for the lifetime for one cup has an indefinite lifespan. Just think of the number of plastic applicators you will save by switching to a reusable cup. 

Is there an alternative to pads?

If you’re not a fan of tampons, and don’t fancy trying out a menstrual cup, don’t worry, we’ve got you. Our reusable period pants are not only an incredibly easy alternative to pads, they’re actually better for you too. 

Our reusable period pants come in various sizes and are designed to look and feel like regular underwear, with the added bonus of an integrated absorbent section. The absorbent section goes all the way to the top at the back, so you’re safe from leaks even overnight. The pants can absorb up to 50 ml which is the same as three tampons.

We use a unique fabric blend for maximum comfort and performance, which, unlike pads, are free from the synthetic chemicals, making them a much healthier and more comfortable option for your intimate area. 

Our period pants also work well as a backup method with a Ruby Cup, to bookend your period for lighter flow days, and protection from light spotting. 

What about packaging?

All of our products are shipped to you with zero plastic packaging. On top of this, since 2012, every single Ruby Cup sold is accompanied by another cup that is donated to a girl or  woman who struggles to gain access to safe and affordable period products. 

Other ways to reduce plastic use

So you’ve made the first step in switching to reusable period products, what next?

Plastic bags:
Starting with the obvious, reusable bags. Get yourself a couple of sturdy grocery bags and make a note to bring them with you when you do your shopping. 

Groceries:
Where possible, go for loose vegetables over the plastic wrapped ones. It might surprise you that research has found that the plastic packed varieties actually contain more nasties than the loose ones. The loose veggies are also often fresher, as they are typically restocked more frequently.

Plastic bottles and cups:
Carry a reusable water bottle and coffee cup with you, and where possible for soft drinks, choose a can or carton over a plastic bottle. 

Food Storage:
Opt for glass or stainless steel containers instead of plastic wrap and ziplock bags. Beeswax wraps are also a great alternative to cling film.

Refillable Cleaners:
Choose cleaning products that come in refillable containers or buy concentrated solutions to dilute at home. 

Solid Bars:
Use solid shampoo, conditioner, and soap bars instead of bottled products.

Toothbrushes:
Switch to bamboo toothbrushes or electric toothbrushes with replaceable heads.

Razor:
Use a safety razor with replaceable blades instead of disposable razors.

Start small, and keep going!

The thought of reducing plastic waste can really easily seem overwhelming. Start small and pick the things that you feel you can easily tackle. These small changes will collectively lead to a significant reduction overall. Remember that one piece of single use plastic will be on the earth far, far longer than you will. 🌎

To help you get started, we're offering special promotions throughout Plastic Free July—don't miss out!