Reusable tampons: full guide and comparison

Here’s a full guide + critical review of Reusable tampons (also called cloth tampons, washable tampons, or eco-tampons)

What Are Reusable Tampons?

A reusable tampon is a tampon-style menstrual product that can be cleaned and reused across cycles (or within a cycle) rather than discarded after one use (like commercial disposable tampons).

They are typically made from absorbent, washable fabrics (for example, organic cotton, bamboo, or other natural fibers). Some are sewn or knitted (“cloth tampons”), some are “crocheted,” and others may combine fabric with insertable structures for support.

They aim to offer the familiar feel/usage of a tampon, but with less waste.

Some points:

• They differ from menstrual cups (which collect rather than absorb) and from reusable menstrual pads (which are external).
• Unlike disposable tampons, reusable ones are not currently cleared by many regulatory agencies (e.g. the US FDA) as medical devices.
• Because of this regulatory status (or lack thereof), safety and performance depend heavily on product quality, material, user technique, and hygiene.

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Advantages / Potential Benefits

Here are the main advantages often cited (and partially supported) for reusable tampons:

1. Environmental impact
   • Because you reuse them, you generate far less waste than with single-use tampons plus their wrappers/applicators.
   • Over time, cycle after cycle, the waste savings can be considerable.
   • A systematic review of reusable menstrual products (which includes reusable tampons among others) found that reusable menstrual products (RMPs) are “effective, safe, cheaper, and environmentally friendly” in many settings.
2. Cost savings (long term)
   • Higher up-front cost (to purchase reusable versions), but over many cycles they can be cheaper than buying disposables repeatedly.
   • Because you don’t continually buy new ones, cost per use drops.
3. Control of materials / chemicals
   • If made from organic cotton or other non-synthetic, non-toxic fabrics, you may avoid exposure to certain additives, bleaches, or chemicals present in some disposable products.
   • You may feel more comfortable knowing exactly what your product is made of.
4. Familiar format
   • For people who already are comfortable with tampons and prefer an absorbent internal product (rather than a cup or disc), reusable tampons offer a more familiar experience (similar insertion removal, no need to “cup” fluid”).
5. Reduced packaging / supply challenges
   • Fewer trips to stores, fewer boxes to dispose of, less concern about supply during travel (if you carry cleaned ones).

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Risks, Disadvantages & Safety Considerations

While reusable tampons have these potential benefits, they also carry notable risks and drawbacks. Some are inherent, others depend on user practices or product quality. It’s crucial to be realistic about these.

1. Regulatory status & limited clinical research
   • The FDA discourages the use of reusable tampons, stating that they have not cleared or approved them; the only tampons approved by FDA are single-use ones.
   • Many medical sources or gynecological experts caution that there is insufficient evidence about safety (especially long-term) for crocheted or cloth tampons. For instance, Cleveland Clinic says: “there hasn’t yet been any research conducted on crocheted and cloth tampons to see how they impact your health over the long term.”
2. Infection risk (bacterial, fungal, yeast, TSS)
   • Because these tampons absorb fluid and can stay moist, they may foster bacterial growth if not cleaned, rinsed, or dried properly.
   • There’s a risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS) if a tampon (reusable or not) is left in too long or contaminated, though TSS is rare.
   • The porous fibers of fabric may harbor bacteria more than nonporous materials, making thorough cleaning more critical.
   • Some reusable tampon proponents warn to change them every 4–6 hours like disposables; others suggest similar limits to minimize bacterial growth.
3. Difficulty in sterilization / hygiene burden
   • One of the biggest challenges is reliably sterilizing them between uses or cycles (boiling, soaking, etc.).
   • If your water supply or sterilization conditions are suboptimal, risk increases.
   • Some types (crocheted or loosely woven) are harder to fully sterilize because of more crevices or fiber structure.
4. Absorbency, leakage, discomfort
   • It can be challenging to design a cloth tampon that absorbs as well as disposable versions without being bulky or stiff.
   • If it shifts, leaks, or moves, it may feel less secure.
   • Some users may find insertion or removal more awkward if the fabric is stiff or not well-shaped.
5. Wear and durability
   • Over time, fabric will degrade: thinning, fraying, odor retention, loss of absorbency. You’ll need to replace them periodically.
   • If the fabric degrades, it may create rough edges or fibers that irritate delicate tissues.
6. User error / misuse
   • The risk of mistakes — leaving them too long, poor cleaning, reusing beyond safe lifespan — is real, more so than with disposables.
   • In public or travel settings, managing sterile cleaning or transport may be cumbersome.
7. Lack of standardization
   • Because many reusable tampons are home-sewn or from small makers, quality varies. Some might use fabrics not intended for vulvovaginal contact.
   • You need to trust the maker’s quality, fabric safety (non-toxic dyes, safe threads, proper weave) more than with widely manufactured disposables.

Given these risks, many health authorities remain cautious or advise using options for which safety data is stronger (e.g. menstrual cups, regulated disposables).

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How to Use & Care for Reusable Tampons – Step by Step

If you decide to try reusable tampons, here’s a recommended protocol to reduce risk as much as possible. (Note: always follow manufacturer instructions too.)

Choosing or making a reusable tampon

• Use tightly woven, absorbent, breathable, and skin-safe fabric (e.g. OEKO-TEX certified organic cotton).
• Avoid synthetic or loosely woven fabrics.
• The size & shape should allow ease of insertion, good absorption, and comfortable removal.
• Consider having several (like 6–12) so you have backups while cleaning/drying.
• If there is a reusable applicator accessory (some brands offer that), it may help insertion hygiene.

Before first use / after each cycle

• Sterilize them (e.g. boil in clean water for a recommended time, e.g. 5–10 minutes) before use.
• After your cycle, wash thoroughly and re-sterilize before storing.
• Inspect them: if any fraying, stains that won’t come out, lingering odor, or fabric breakdown, retire them.

During use

1. Insertion
   • Similar to a disposable tampon: lubricate (if needed) with clean water or water-based lubricant.
   • Make sure it sits comfortably, without twists or bunching.
2. Wearing time
   • Don’t exceed 4–6 (or maximum 8) hours (as with disposables) to reduce bacterial proliferation.
   • For heavy flow times, change more often.
3. Removal
   • Gently pull out; some residual fluid is expected.
   • Immediately rinse with cool water (to avoid setting stains) and wash with mild, unscented soap or rinse thoroughly.
   • Squeeze out excess, but don’t wring aggressively in a way that damages fabric.
4. Between uses (within same day / cycle)
   • After rinsing, continue to wash (hand wash is common).
   • Place in breathable container (not sealed plastic) to allow drying and prevent mold.
5. Deep cleaning / sterilization during cycle (optional)
   • Some users periodically boil them or soak in a sterilizing solution (peroxide, etc.) if available.
6. Drying
   • Air-dry fully, ideally in sunlight (which also helps sanitize).
   • Make sure they are bone dry before storing.
7. Storage
   • Store in a dry, breathable pouch or cotton bag — not sealed plastic.
8. Replacement criteria
   • If odor persists, fabric thins, discoloration not removable, or structural integrity reduces, replace it.
   • Many suggest a wearable lifespan of several months to a couple of years, depending on fabric and care.

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What the Evidence / Reviews Say

Because reusable tampons are less mainstream than cups or disposables, the clinical and long-term evidence is limited. Here’s a summary of what is known or reported:

• The systematic review of reusable menstrual products (RMPs) suggests they can be effective, safe, cheaper, and more sustainable in many contexts—but “good quality studies in this field are needed.”
• The FDA explicitly states that reusable tampons are not cleared/approved and may carry additional infection risks.
• Some expert sources advise caution — for crocheted/cloth tampons, there is a lack of long-term research.
• In user reviews of brand products (e.g. Imse reusable tampons), some consumers say they find them “very easy to use and just as effective as regular tampons.”
• Some alternative tampon-accessory products (e.g. reusable tampon applicators) have received positive reviews. For example, DAME’s reusable tampon applicator (used with regular tampons) is praised for reducing trash and claimed to be durable (usable many thousands of times).
• Reviews in blogs or “zero waste product” circles highlight that cleaning/drying is the biggest practical barrier; many users prefer options that require less maintenance (e.g. cups).

In short: anecdotal user reviews can be positive (for people committed to strict hygiene), but the scientific backing is weak, and regulators caution use.

Menstrual Product Comparison Table

Feature / Category	Reusable Tampons	Menstrual Cups	Reusable Cloth Pads	Period Underwear	Disposable Tampons/Pads
Type	Internal absorbent (fabric)	Internal collector (silicone, TPE)	External absorbent	External absorbent garment	Internal/external absorbent (single-use)
Reusability	✅ Yes (months–1–2 years)	✅ Yes (up to 10 years)	✅ Yes (2–5 years)	✅ Yes (2–3 years)	❌ No (single-use)
Material	Organic cotton, bamboo, natural fibers	Medical-grade silicone or TPE	Cotton, bamboo, fleece	Specialized absorbent + waterproof layers	Cotton, rayon, synthetics
Comfort	Moderate (depends on fit & softness)	High for most users once accustomed	High	High	High (familiar feel)
Absorbency / Capacity	Moderate	High (20–30 mL)	Moderate–High	Moderate	Moderate–High
Leak Protection	Medium	High (if sealed properly)	Medium	Medium	Medium
Ease of Cleaning	❌ Requires boiling/washing/drying	✅ Simple boiling/sterilizing	✅ Easy washing	✅ Machine washable	✅ No cleaning
Hygiene Risk (Infection, TSS)	⚠️ Higher (if not sterilized properly)	Low (if used/cleaned correctly)	Low	Low	Moderate (TSS risk)
Regulatory Approval (FDA/CE)	❌ No FDA approval	✅ FDA-approved brands exist	✅ CE-certified brands exist	✅ CE/FDA for major brands	✅ FDA-approved
Environmental Impact	♻️ Very low waste	♻️ Very low waste	♻️ Very low waste	♻️ Low waste	🚫 High waste
Cost (Long Term)	💰 Low (after initial purchase)	💰 Very low (amortized over years)	💰 Low	💰 Medium	💰 High recurring
Durability	6–12 months typical	5–10 years	2–5 years	2–3 years	One use
Learning Curve	Medium (insertion, sterilization)	Medium (folding/insertion)	Low	Low	None
Travel Convenience	⚠️ Requires cleaning setup	✅ Easy to carry, clean later	⚠️ Needs washing space	✅ Easy to use, rinse later	✅ Convenient
Ideal For	Eco-conscious tampon users comfortable with DIY hygiene	Those seeking long-term, low-waste option	Users preferring external pads	Users wanting “invisible” all-day option	Users preferring convenience
Main Drawbacks	Difficult to sterilize, limited approval	May require practice, removal learning	Needs drying time	May not handle heavy flow alone	Creates waste, ongoing expense

Summary:

• Best overall reusable option: Menstrual cups (safest, long lifespan, low cost, strong data).
• Best for beginners in reusables: Cloth pads or period underwear — easy hygiene, low risk.
• Most eco but highest hygiene effort: Reusable tampons.
• Most convenient but least sustainable: Disposable tampons/pads.

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Who Might Reusable Tampons Be Good For – And Who Should Avoid?

May be suitable for:

• Someone already comfortable with tampons and wanting a lower-waste option.
• Someone with reliable access to clean water, heat/sterilization, and privacy to do proper cleaning.
• Someone willing to invest time and care in hygiene.
• Someone who finds cups/other methods uncomfortable or unsuitable.

Might be risky / not recommended for:

• People with frequent vaginal infections, sensitivities, or immune suppression.
• Those in environments with limited access to sterilization (e.g. some travel, camping, places without safe water).
• Users unwilling or unable to follow strict cleaning/drying routines.
• First-time users who may prefer more established (and safer) reusable products (like cups) until familiar.

Always consult with a gynecologist or healthcare provider before switching or using less studied products, especially if you have health conditions.

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My Evaluation & Recommendation

Here’s my take:

• Reusable tampons are an interesting niche in sustainable menstrual care. In principle, they offer a “less waste, more control” approach that aligns with eco goals.
• However, the biggest obstacle is safety and hygiene burden. Because internal menstrual products are in a sensitive environment, the risk (though low in many users) is nontrivial if mistakes occur.
• Until more robust clinical data exist, I’d lean toward recommending menstrual cups or other regulated reusable options as safer “next steps” for people who want to reduce waste, unless the user has a strong reason to prefer tampons.
• If someone is determined to use reusable tampons, I’d emphasize:
  • Buy from a reputable maker, not improvising random fabrics.
  • Follow sterilization and hygiene protocols meticulously.
  • Monitor and replace frequently.
  • Be vigilant for signs of infection (odors, irritation, unusual discharge, etc.).

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⚠️ Why the scarcity?

• As I noted earlier, reusable tampons (cloth) have less regulatory support and less clinical research, which likely reduces how many big brands want to risk manufacturing them.
• Many brands instead focus on reusable applicators (you use them with regular (often organic cotton) tampons). This approach is more feasible from a regulatory & safety standpoint.
• Many “reusable tampon” products are made by small, artisanal, or boutique makers—not necessarily widely shipped in the U.S.