We can minimize our fossil fuel use and support makers near us by buying more from local makers (and a lot less from big stores). I want to keep highlighting amazing makers in the US, and I feel like my Etsy links can get caught in the more mainstream shuffle. So let's look at some of the best stuff together. 

from UnpaperUnplastic

We tend to avoid talking about things like periods, because it is uncomfortable or awkward, but lots of us deal with them. And honestly, we have been dealing with them wrong.

Menstrual products like pads and tampons are loaded in plastic (yes, you are putting endocrine-disrupting, cancer-causing plastic up your business) and they create a huge amount of waste. Not to mention, they just aren't the best solution in terms of comfort and safety.

I wrote about greening our lady parts in this blog, but let me shorten the message for you. Our periods, just like everything else, are better served with reusable products. I have become a big fan of the menstrual cup (it really is a game changer) BUT you can also use washable pads or period underwear.

There aren't a ton of reusable pads out in stores (yet), but you can find so many options on Etsy. And they are AWESOME! I can't believe how many hilarious, happy, and thoughtful designs are out there. It's almost like you could approach your period in a less miserable way. Here are some of the best stores to set you up to stop tossing all those pads, and take care of the Earth instead.

Lucy and Mabs

This Canadian store has its own cool design and lots of fun prints. She started the store after trying a cloth pantyliner that sat in the drawer for 2 years. Once she tried it, she couldn't figure out why she hadn't started sooner, and has sold 5000+ pads so far. They have over 3500 positive reviews as well, so you know they have some menstruation skills.

FigLeavesPads

This New York-based store has been open since 2013, and they have girly and playful pads for sale. They also have perfect reviews, so they seem pretty dependable.

AHippieAdventure

This Texas-based store offers a type of pad you may have never thought of before- interlabial. It definitely isn't for everyone, but it may be for you, and she sells more traditional reusable pads as well.

UnpaperUnplastic

I love the sweet  heart buttons on these pads. I also love that you can get that cuteness in black. My hunch, having used lots of other reusable cloth items, is that dark colors is the way to go if you want these to last a long time.

StitchandFloByDe

This shop has fewer reviews, but I thought the designs and fabrics were just so pretty that it was worth checking them out. Super pretty with a thoughtful and unique design.

Need more ideas? Check out these stores as well- PussyPadsShop (is that not the best name ever?), WeeEssentials, NanaSuesCreations, HandmadebyLDavies, ThePadLady, TheUnpaperTree, BattleGreenBox, MamaBearBabyWear, TheSewMustGoOn, GingerGreenCo, Pinnde, and HerEcoAlaska.


Ok, who here has switched to an eco-friendly approach to their period? Did you know you can get knit tampons as well? What has worked for you?

Have a favorite etsy shop that didn't make the list? Point me there! Want even more eco-friendly and local shopping inspiration? Check out my Giant List of Ethical and Eco-Friendly Shopping Lists.