Reusable period products

Why switch to reusable period products?  

• 11,000 single‑use items. That's how many the average person uses in their lifetime.  
• Three billion disposable menstrual products. In the UK alone, that's how many disposable menstrual products are thrown away every year.
• 500-800 years to break down. Period products can take centuries to decompose in landfill.  
• Plastic overload. One pack of 14 pads contains as much plastic as five carrier bags.  
• Save money, save the planet. Switching to reusables can cut costs by up to 94%. The average lifetime cost of periods is around £4,800. Reusables make a huge difference.  

What choice of reusables do I have?

Check out the City to Sea website. You can compare reusable products and work out what might suit you best.  

Menstrual cups  

Soft and flexible cups that collect period blood instead of absorbing it. They can last up to 10 years. This makes them the biggest money‑saver of all reusable options. Look for cups made from medical‑grade silicone, TPE, or latex.  

Period pants  

Super comfy absorbent underwear that lasts up to two years. Wash them in the machine or by hand. Choose from loads of styles and absorbency levels to suit you.  

Reusable period pads  

Soft fabric pads that clip around your underwear. You can wash them after use. They come in different absorbencies, sizes, and colourful designs. This makes them practical and fun.  

Period swimwear 

Swimwear with built-in leak protection so that you can swim, splash and relax effortlessly. Period swimwear can be washed in the washing machine after use.

Reusable tampon applicator  

A handy product that works with any disposable tampon. It fits neatly in your bag, can be washed, and reused for up to 10 years.  

What do reusables cost?  

Menstrual cups cost £9 - £24.90 and will last you up to 10 years.  

A set of reusable pads will cost you about £10 - £35 and some can last up to 10 years.  

A pair of period pants will cost you from around £5. Each pair will last you at least two years.  

Find out exactly what you can save with the Anglian Water periodic calculator.  

Where can I get reusable period products in Norfolk?  

Reusable period products are available at many places in Norfolk, including:  

• Local supermarkets and high street clothing stores  
• Tricky Period at Norfolk Libraries  
• Eco shops and refill shops  
• Nourishing Norfolk Foodbanks  
• Online stores such as Hey Girls, Wuka and Mooncup  

Free school learning resources 

Visit our learning zone to order free reusables teacher kits for your school in Norfolk. This includes samples of reusable pants, pads and cups.   

You can also download free lesson plans, activities and animations from Hey Girls website. These are suitable for both primary and secondary schools.