23 November 2020

Eco Dreams Cloth Pads
(gifted from Eco Dreams)

I've openly discussed my experience with eco friendly and reusable period periods and my love hate relationship with them. Many people are fans of period cups but I aren't for everyone so I think it's important to be mindful that alternative options including cloth pads. We've been conditioned to believe periods are disgusting and I think those feelings are often projected onto reusable products. The thought of rinsing and washing pads seems impractical or unsightly but periods are a natural bodily function and we shouldn't be embarrassed or ashamed.

I took up an offer to try Eco Dreams cloth pads made from eco-friendly textiles and ethically manufactured in the UK. The range includes pantyliners, day pads, heavy flow pads and overnight pads in colourful prints. I have heavy periods and received a Day Pad Plus (flowers on white) and a Night Pad (green meadow). Eco Dreams make their pads from a blend of fabrics - cotton, polyurethane, polyester, bamboo viscose and the snaps are Oekotex certified. If you experience sensitive skin and irritation unlike disposables, cloth pads are free from perfumes and materials that may cause contact dermatitis.

I've put my Eco Dreams cloth pads to the test through two periods. The pads are well made with neat stitching and noticeable softness. They have gone through the washing machine several times and have held up well. My initial thoughts were how comfortable the Day Plus pad felt and you of course loose that noticeable 'crinkle like a crisp packet' sound that is common with disposables (IMO Always is the worst for this!). The pads have wings that clasp shut with a popper but you do need to wear a snug pair of undies to provide a good fit. Sadly, I have experienced leakage whilst wearing the pads. I'm unsure whether to put that down to heavy flow or movement of the pad in my underwear. Leaks are part of the course with my periods and it doesn't matter what I'm using it happens from time to time. I appreciate the black lining hides staining but I felt a little uneasy because I wasn't able to judge my flow and when to change the pad. It probably takes a bit of practice.

When I felt it was time to change my Eco Dreams Day Plus pad, I simply rinsed it under the cold tap and hung to dry (next to a radiator). I added them to the washing machine when I had a full load of laundry. This was very straight forward and I didn't find it a hassle. As someone who experiences leaks you get comfortable with rinsing out blood from clothing but it isn't something you would do in a public bathroom. That's when a wet bag would be handy and these can be purchase from Eco Dreams then you can deal with rinsing out your pads when you are at home.

I think the downside to cloth pads is the initial outlay. It's expensive upfront but keep in mind the long term value, Eco Dreams suggest they pay for themselves in a few months. I've recently been through unemployment and at these time reusables are the last thing on my mind so I appreciate it's not for everyone financially. I see them as a privilege in many ways. I'm not entirely converted to reusable period products but I use them where I can. I do still buy mainstream disposable brands from my supermarket. I prefer a mix of options as I've never found my perfect product. I like to think that reducing some plastic products is better than doing nothing at all. 

If you are curious about cloth pads, please visit Eco Dreams website for more information. Perhaps start off with one pad and see how you get on, you can then always purchase more in the future.

Sarah x

11 December 2012

Clipper Tea Organic Burst
I knew Raspberry Leaf was used for preparing for labour but had not realised it can be good for PMS. From what I have read it may assist in reducing cramps and heavy bleeding. I gave it a whirl alongside my prescribed medications and I did notice I reduced the number of pain killers I took. Obviously some more testing is needed but I was impressed enough to want to try it again, after all tea has got to be better for my stomach than pills.

I have been following Organic Burst on Twitter but it was not until I read Buff Beauty's post about Maca that I took the plunge to buy it. I had not realised that Maca has been found to be beneficial in reducing Menopausal and PMS symptoms. I took this religiously for a week but then lost interest because I dislike the taste. It comes in a powder form and I have to find a way of masking the flavour. So far soya milk with Strawberry Nesquik is the best solution. I also dislike that it doesn't dissolve easily in liquid. Despite this I am going to give it another try so I will keep you updated on my progress.

I'm researching cloth and organic cotton pads as I have problems with Always and Bodyform scenting their towels. Why do they think I want my lady parts to smell like air freshener? I have read some women believe the toxins in non-organic pads are the cause of problematic periods. At the moment the frustration I have with organic pads is I can only see them online. I have been put off ordering because of delivery charges. It would be much easier to throw them in my trolley when doing the weekly shop at local supermarket. The other issue that holds me back is the price. Understandably the cost is higher but heavy periods means I buy mainstream brands in bulk when they are on special offer at the Supermarket. I think if I can combat the heavy periods with an alternative treatment it may give me the push to buy natural and organic pads. In the meantime, if you have any brand recommendations for period care items then I would be happy to hear them.

Sarah x

17 April 2018

OrganiCup the menstrual cup
Whenever I’ve written about finding eco-friendly period products there is always an overwhelming response from fans of menstrual cups. I even heard the mention of mooncups in Neighbours the other week. To be honest it frustrates me that a small minority of people are borderline aggressive about the choices we make with period products, no one should be ashamed about what they use each month. I’ve written about pads and somehow people seem outraged that you don’t use tampons. I appreciated that the menstrual cup is a very effective product for some people but spare a thought that not everyone feels the same and that’s OK. Our bodies, periods and lifestyles vary and it makes sense so would our product choices.

12 October 2014

TOTM organic cotton period products tampons pads
(Gifted PR Samples)

Lets chat about a topic which often we only speak about in hushed tones, Periods. I have blogged about my lady problems before and mentioned I wanted to learn more about having an eco-friendly period. Most Green Bloggers will promote menstrual cups as a replacement for tampons but I am turning my attention to pads and liners as these are the products I prefer usingI recently was approached by TOTM (Time of the Month) they offer 100% organic cotton pads and tampons. TOTM products are free from cellulose pulp, perfume, viscose, rayon, chlorine, dioxin and 95% biodegradable. I have received samples. I won’t be reviewing right away but I wanted to bring TOTM to everyone’s attention.

A little research into familiar brands of tampons and pads reveals some thought provoking facts about the ingredients and materials in these products. I have always been concerned about the environmental impact on landfills but recently started to wonder if my problem periods could be linked to toxic ingredients. I have noticed a trend for fragrance pads and that's not ideal for sensitive skin and allergies. It drives me crazy that manufacturers feel my natural bodily functions are so repulsive that I need to scent them with air freshener. Do I really need my underwear to like smell alpine fresh? 

TOTM offer a subscription service via their website. You can receive monthly deliveries of the products you need, on a date chosen by you. Packaging is sleek and discreet which makes a pleasant changed from all the lurid floral designs. Are love heart supposed to make my period more enjoyable? When Aunty Flow visits next month, I will update you on how I got on with the pads. Until then, do check out TOTM’S website for further information. 

Have you switched to eco-friendly period products?

Sarah x

3 November 2022

Swap out your plastic bottles for solid beauty bars from Ethique
(Purchased products)

On our recent trip to Italy we travelled with only cabin allowance luggage and that meant a limit to the volume of liquids we could take with us. In an effort to cut back on toiletries I was looking for waterless products and decided to order a couple of skincare minis from Ethique.

The range from Ethqiue has you covered from top to toe. They specialised in solid bars ranging from shampoo, conditioners, cleansers, solid lotions, balms and deodorants. I was pleased to discover a handful of products that are fragrance free/unscented so I ordered the Mini Bliss Bar™ Gentle Solid Face Cleanser and Unscented Solid Cream Body Cleanser.

Ethique face and body cleanser bars are super easy to use. You simply need to rub in the palm of your hands to create a creamy lather. I will say that they are both of these bars are similar in their formulations with key ingredients of coconut butter, kaolin clay and vegetable glycerine. 

The Solid Cream Body Cleanser was just like using any traditional soap bar. I did find it gentle on my skin and didn't notice any dryness. I'd be more than happy to switch out my body wash for this one.
I was happy to use the Gentle Solid Face cleanser for the duration of our holiday. I didn't find it overly drying or disruptive to my skin but I must admit that I did miss my balm cleanser. As a long term skincare swap I don't think it would be for me but I find it perfectly acceptable for short periods. I know it's frown upon to wash your face in the shower but I do enjoy using it in this way for an early morning cleanse. I don't wear much makeup, it's limited to sunscreen and CC cream and for my evening cleanse I used the bar in conjunction with a cloth to make sure I'm thoroughly removing grime. 

To round this post up I was very happy to have tried these Ethique bars and they left me with a great first impression. I would be comfortable recommending to others and I'm thinking of gifting to family now that Christmas is on the way. Visit the Ethique website where you can find background information about the business and read up about their environmental ethics. 

Sarah x

15 April 2022

Nourish London Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser SPF 25
(Gifted)

Nourish London recently launched their NEW certified organic and vegan Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser with SPF 25. This anti-ageing moisturiser has natural mineral SPF non nano zinc oxide to protect the skin from daily pollution and environmental damage, whilst providing broad spectrum UVA and UVB protection.

The formulation is full of great ingredients with antioxidants, including Turmeric, Bisabolol and Tocopherol. Hyaluronic Acid and Hexapeptide hydrate skin, whilst ceramide rich Argan, Kale, Pumpkin Seed Oil and Rose of Jericho protect the lipid layer. Soothing actives of Aloe Vera and Borage Oil calm redness and inflammation. For those who are sensitive to essential oils, the ingredient list doesn't list these allergens so I have been able to try out this moisturiser.

What do I think of Nourish London Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser with SPF 25? To the touch it feels like a lightweight moisturiser but on contact with skin you can tell it contains Zinc Oxide. It takes a little more effort to massage into skin as you're trying to work with a noticeable whiteness. I have a fair to medium complexion and this may be more noticeable on darker skin tones. I'm finding it hard to put into words how I feel about the sensation this product leaves on my face. Whilst my skin feels smooth it has an almost dry texture and it doesn't feel dewy. As someone who experiences eczema and dryness it leaves me feeling a little stuck on the fence. This is also a feeling I've had with other natural sun creams so it's certainly not unique to this product.

If you are in the sun for extended periods of time then I wouldn't solely rely on this face cream. You are likely to want to top up throughout the day. Many of us will use moisturisers sparingly and you'll probably apply a pea sized amount however the recommendation for SPF is at least half a teaspoon. The British Association of Dermatologists has advised that moisturiser with an SPF will only help protect you against small amounts of UV exposure. Of course there is always the logic that something is better than nothing so a product such as Nourish London Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser with SPF 25 can have a place in your routine so just be mindful about how you use it.

Nourish London’s New Skin Protecting Daily Moisturiser SPF 25 at the time of publication is priced at £28.00. It is also dermatologically tested (suitable for sensitive skin), pediatrician approved (safe for use on babies) and reef safe. You can purchase this product from nourishskinrange.com

Sarah x

7 January 2016

Review Veeda natural cotton tampons and ultra thin towels
I had recently discovered Veeda at Boots and then coincidentally was contacted by them. Many mainstream tampons are a blend of cotton and synthetic materials. You're basically putting into your body a product which could possibly contain dioxins from the bleaching process, pesticide and herbicide residues, synthetic chemicals, artificial fragrances, and dyes. Veeda tampons are like any other brand from the way they look to the performance but the difference is they are made with 100% natural cotton.

Veeda initially caught my attention because the range includes the choice of tampons with BPA free plastic applicator. Here's where it gets TMI......I hate those cardboard applicator, I know they are better for the environment but they are uncomfortable. 

Majority of the time I favour using towels and the Veeda ones are comfortable and secure. No bunching and the wings have a good hold unlike other brands. The biofilm packaging on the Veeda towels is biodegradable and breaks down in six to twelve months. For me, regular pads are only suitable for lighter days. I find that my heavy periods are what holds me back from making the full switch to "greener" products because performance in comparison to Bodyform and Always isn't adequate. Sadly, I wasn't able to get hold of the super towels in time to include them in this review. 

Overall I was very happy to use Veeda products and I would look to buy more in the future. For now, Veeda is available at Boots, Ebay, Amazon and directly through their website.

Sarah x

Disclaimer - PR samples

27 November 2014

TOTM organic cotton period products
(Gifted PR Samples)

Back in October I introduced readers to TOTM (Time of the Month) organic cotton pads. As promised, I am back with a review. I received two TOTM Ultra Thin Day Pads and two Ultra Thin Night pads (both products have wings). For a point of reference, the products I normally use are Bodyform (Ultra Long Wings) and Always Night.

I have to be totally honest, due to the fact that I experience heavy periods, TOTM pads didn't always perform as I wish. I ended up using the night pad during the day as I preferred the extra length it provided. As I sat down to write this review I studied every inch of the pad. Sadly I came to the conclusion that Bodyform is offering me marginally better protection when it comes to preventing leaks. The shape of TOTM in comparison to mainstream brands is rectangular with ridges whereas others are smooth with shaping and markings to the top layer of the pad.

TOTM pads are soft to the touch and similar in thickness to high street products. Whilst using the pad I noted that the adhesive was sufficient to keep it in place, an important factor for me since I have used other organic brands which have let me down. In principal, I would happily ditch mainstream for TOTM. I appreciate the differences. They are better for the environment and my body because they lack "harsh" ingredients (chlorine, perfumes, dioxin) found in mainstream brands. I have previously, tried Natracare and I would recommend TOTM over those. 

Although my experience was not perfect, I would still encourage switching over to TOTM, even more so if you prefer using tampons. You will pay extra for organic period products but I am sure we can agree that we cannot put a price on the environment and our health.

Sarah x

16 July 2020

Plastic Free July easy swaps you can make to reduce plastic in your home
(not sponsored, internal & external links)

350 million tonnes of plastic are being produced each year so Plastic Free July feels like a good campaign to get behind. According to facts available on Plastic Oceans "8 million tonnes of plastic enter the ocean every year. If waste management practices don't improve, scientists predict this amount could increase tenfold by 2025." If you can't commit to changing your entire lifestyle then lets encourage each other to make a few swaps. When choosing products look for packaging that is made from glass, metal, bamboo, compostable or biodegradable cardboard, silicone and recycled plastic.

28 July 2020

Saalt reusable menstrual cup
(gifted PR)

I won't insist everyone should be using a menstrual cup because some people can find them difficult to use and there should be no shame in feeling this way. I have struggled for years and have previously written an honest experience of using my period cup. Even after two years I've not fully converted to using it every month. If you are undecided about using cups it may be of interest to understand some of the benefits. I'm not an expert but I've gathered some notes through researching based on my own curiosities.

- Reusable, environmentally friendly and can last 10 years before needing to replace
- They don't dry the vagina like tampons as a menstrual cup collects your flow rather than absorb
- When used correctly you should not experience leaks
- Cups are made from medical grade silicone so unlike pads and tampons there are no concerns for chemical such as bleach and dioxin
- Many people claim a reduction in cramping when using a cup although there are no clinical studies to support this
- Cups eliminate odor often associated to menstrual fluid when exposed to air.
- More research may be required but cups are safe to use, a handful of TSS cases have been linked but there may have been other contributing factors to these infections
- Reusable products may benefit people who experience period poverty

I was recently gifted a Saalt menstrual cup who have recently launched into the UK. It's available in two sizes with two firmness options. Each cup lasts for 10 years, providing a sustainable alternative to tampons and pads. Saalt is a certified B Corporation which means they commit 2% of revenue to donate period care to regions with the most need, and help fund initiatives in menstrual health, education, and sustainability.

I think one of the first hurdles is choosing the correct cup size as each brand has different options. Saalt has a handy size guide which I found informative in comparison to others. I chose 'Regular Soft' and with hindsight I think small would have been the better option. When placed side by side the Regular Saalt menstrual cup is much larger than the one I have been using for past two years. The cup softness provides flexibility something I am used to as it feels identical my other cup. I want to be honest in my reviews and the regular size isn't comfortable so I was unable to put it to full use.

It is not my intention to discourage anyone from giving period cups a try because they can make a difference to period wellbeing. The reduction in plastic waste and monthly costs is beneficial in the long term. You will often see the claim that period cups can be worn for up to 12 hour. Speaking as someone who experiences heavy periods, I have never been able to substantiate the claim. I do need to empty my cup during the day. However I am able to achieve a longer wear time compared to tampons so there is some benefit. Personally I don't like to wear it overnight but it OK to use a menstrual cup whilst sleeping. There can be issues associated to wearing pads and tampons for more than 8 hours.

I would be happy to recommend Saalt period cups and suggest that you visit their website for further information - www.saaltco.uk

Sarah x

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