Green periods – Start Them Young

If you are keen on leaving behind a green earth for the next generation, you’ve probably made a ton of “green” choices already. You might have already started using the menstrual cup in order to reduce the number of plastic disposables you have to trash. 

So, what about starting the next gen on green periods right from the start? Given today’s societal norms, we might not all be comfortable about young girls using the cup. Which leaves us with the question, what alternatives do they have to disposables? Welcome to the world of reusable pads! 

These cloth pads by Aaram, marketed and distributed by Nari-Yari come with two outer covers or holders and 5 inserts. The absorbent cloth can be removed, washed and used again. A cloth pad typically lasts between 3-5 years, depending on flow and usage. 

Here, we answer some basic questions you or your t(w)een might have about cloth pads

1) Why can’t I just use disposables, all my friends do.

Here’s an idea. You try the disposables your friends use for 6 months, and then try the cloth pad for 6 months. If you see a difference and want to make the switch, great. If not, no pressure, you can always try again later.

For parents, remember that peer pressure is a huge influence on what kids do. Your child can either be the one influencing other kids and converting them to cloth pads, or they might fall in with the norm of disposables. You can give them the choice and introduce them to both. Remember to stay open and answer any questions they might have on either or both pads.

2) Can I use these cloth pads when I sleep, what if they stain?

Cloth pads are safe to use when you sleep. Unlike the disposable pads, these don’t “bunch up” or twist, which are the main causes of leaks.

However, if you do have a heavy flow, you might want to back the cloth pad up with panty-liners or a good period panty. 

3) How long can I go without changing the pad?

This is similar to disposable pads, we recommend that you change atleast once in 4 hours.

There might not be a bad odor, like you get with disposable pads when the blood mixes with the chemicals. However, leaving a pad on for too long without changing it, could lead to bacterial growth and infections, which are best avoided. If you have a heavy flow, we recommend that you change it sooner.

4) What about changing in school, how do I manage that?

Parents, we’d say, get your child a nice pouch and a whole stock of zip-lock packets. The used pad can go into the zip-lock packet (soiled side inside), and it can be stored inside the pouch. If the pouch is one that can fit inside the pocket, you might want to consider that one for a shy child, so they are not questioned or bullied by other kids.

5) How do I wash the pads?

Soak the pad in normal water (not hot, not cold) for about half an hour. Post that you can either choose to: 

1) Wash the pad by hand

2) Scrub once by hand and then toss it into the washing machine for a cold water wash.

Once the pad has been washed, try to hang it out in direct sunlight, since that means it gets disinfected too. If you can’t get direct sunlight, make sure to dry it in an airy place.

Only store the pad once it is completely dry. Even a little bit of damp can lead to bacterial growth and infection, which is easily avoidable. Don’t iron the pad. 

Want to pick up your child’s first “green pads”? Call us on +91 9341255690 and we’ll get you started. If you want to know more about the benefits of using a cup, check out their environmental bonuses here, and their health benefits here. Log on to www.nariyari.com to pick your cup up right away!