These 8 Reusable Period Products Are Lifesavers

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If you're trying to reduce the amount of waste you produce while on your period or just want to find a reliable alternative to disposable tampons and pads, reusable menstrual care products are the way to go. If you're a tampon user, your first thought may be to switch to a menstrual cup — and that's a fantastic option — but there are plenty of other reliable, eco-friendly reusable period products out there, too. There are internal reusable menstrual options (such as cups or menstrual discs), as well as external options (such as period underwear, workout shorts, and washable pads).

If you're looking for some recommendations, ahead are eight reusable period products that'll help you make your menstrual-care routine more sustainable. Another bonus? They'll probably save you some money in the long run, too.

Nixit Menstrual Cup
letsnixit.com

Nixit Menstrual Cup

The Nixit Menstrual Cup ($42) is made of super soft silicone and is designed more like a menstrual disc than a cup. It sits above the vaginal canal and under the cervix to collect fluid during your period, and because of its placement in the body, the Nixit Menstrual Cup doesn't require suction to stay in place — which may be appealing to someone who has an IUD. Unlike tampons, which should only be worn for up to eight hours, this period-care product can be worn for up to 12 hours, making it a great option for nighttime.Not a bad option for nighttime, right?

Thinx re.t.a Tampon Applicator
shethinx.com

Thinx re.t.a Tampon Applicator

The Thinx re.t.a Tampon Applicator ($60) is the first FDA-approved reusable tampon applicator. The re.ta is compatible with most applicator-free tampons. All you have to do is pick up a pack of cotton-only tampons (so no plastic applicators), and fit the tampon into re.ta, and insert the tampon as normal. But rather than trash the single-use plastic applicator (which unfortunately you can't recycle because they come into contact with blood), simply wash re.t.a and put the cap back on for later use.

Rael Organic Cotton Reusable Panty Liners
getrael.com

Rael Organic Cotton Reusable Panty Liners

Rael Organic Cotton Reusable Panty Liners ($30 for three pads) are a great reusable period product option for people who prefer external menstrual care products. Made with organic cotton, these pantyliners are designed to last up to 120 uses each. To take care of the liners, all you have to do is machine wash after each use.

CORA The Easy-Does-It Cup
cvs.com

CORA The Easy-Does-It Cup

If you're new to menstrual cups, but want to make the switch to a reusable period product, try CORA's The Easy-Does-It Cup ($35), which is made for beginners. Created with super-soft and flexible silicone, this cup lasts up to 12 hours and is reusable for up to ten years.

Aisle Maxi Pad
periodaisle.com

Aisle Maxi Pad

Prefer pads or liners to tampons or menstrual cups? Go for a reusable version, like the Aisle Maxi Pad ($19), which has a few colorful designs to keep you feeling cute. These maxi pads absorb four tampons worth of fluid (so great for overnight wear or heavy bleeders) and snap in place via fabric wings that fit underneath your underwear. Just machine wash when you're through.

Thinx for All Women's Super Absorbency Brief Period Underwear
cvs.com

Thinx for All Women's Super Absorbency Brief Period Underwear

Thinx for All Women's Super Absorbency Brief Period Underwear ($17) is perfect for comfortable, no-fuss period care. This low-rise, breathable underwear is great for heavy-to-medium days and fits seamlessly under clothes. The best part? Thinx's leak-resistant layers keep your clothes and sheets stain-free.

Knix Leakproof Classic One-Piece
knix.com

Knix Leakproof Classic One-Piece

Forgot to pack tampons for the pool? That's no problem when you have a period-proof bathing suit. The Knix Leakproof Classic One-Piece ($105) is specifically designed to absorb fluid and prevent leaks, making lounging in the sun or splashing around in the water all the more enjoyable.

Thinx Training Shorts
shethinx.com

Thinx Training Shorts

Give leak-proof activewear a go during your next workout with the Thinx Training Shorts ($65). Available in black and kale, these reusable period shorts can absorb up to five tampons worth of fluid — plus they'll keep you cool and comfortable while you move around freely.