Table of Contents
The Best Organic Maxi Pads
If you’re looking for a healthier, safer period experience then you may want to opt for organic sanitary napkins. Here are some of our top picks:
- Organyc pads for sensitive skin
- Natratouch organic maxi pads
- Rael pads
- Natracare Natural maxi pads
- Seventh Generation hypoallergenic pads
- Cora Organic Pads
Keep on reading for some of the reasons why you might consider going organic for your feminine hygiene products, and then reviews of our top picks.
How Did We Come Up With this List?
That’s a great question that we’re happy to answer! We follow the same general process, whether pads, tampons, menstrual cups, or female urination devices. Here it is:
- We take a close look at the overall user rating on Amazon, taking into account the total number of ratings (we prefer more than 20, and 100+ is far better).
- Then, we pay close attention to the 3-4 star ratings because they usually give the most accurate picture of a product’s pros and cons.
- After that, we look carefully at the company website, particularly the sections on where and how the product is made, as well as the philosophy behind it. At this point, we also look at cost per unit to help you get the best value for your money.
- Next, we try out the products for ourselves (there are four of us who test the products here at Reusable Menstrual Cups). We get some products for free, while we pay for others. Either way—it doesn’t impact our review of them.
- Finally, we come up with this list of the best ones for you to pick from.
Why Choose Organic Maxi Pads?
There are a number of reasons why you might consider organic, all-natural sanitary napkins over non-organic ones. Just a few of them include the following.
Hypoallergenic Pads are Better for the Environment
Most of the organic maxi pads options are also fully biodegradable. This means that they don’t contain plastic and will biodegrade in years. Compare this to conventional pads which will still be hanging around the landfill in hundreds of years from now.
The other reason why organic Sanitary Napkins are better for the environment is that there are no pesticides used on the cotton in them. There are also no toxic chemicals used during the manufacturing process.
The result? A product that is much better for your health! Keep on reading…
Organic Maxi Pads are Better for your Health
Regular maxi pads sometimes contain trace amounts of toxic chemicals in them. They come from the pesticides used on the cotton, as well as from the bleaching during the manufacturing process.
Part of the problem is that in many countries, manufacturers aren’t required to disclose what’s in these products. In the USA for example, pads and tampons are classified as medical devices by the FDA, which is why they don’t have list ingredients.
By making the switch to organic maxi pads, you’re avoiding all these toxic chemicals. Although there are only trace amounts, exposure to this stuff can add up over time to some pretty serious health effects.
Check out our top recommendations for organic, all-natural pads.
#1 Organic Pad: Organyc
Organyc is one of the most trusted names in organic feminine hygiene products. They are very affordably priced, and come in a wide range of absorbency and size levels.
Organyc pads are hypoallergenic, and make the perfect choice for someone with sensitive skin or skin allergies. If you get rashes from regular pads, try these out for a couple of months and our guess is that you’ll notice a big difference.
Excellent User Ratings and Reviews for these Organic Maxi Pads
Over on Amazon, the full range of Organyc products has some excellent reviews. In particular, people love the backing on them which actually sticks well. Many organic pads have this particular problem, but Organyc is one of the exceptions.
For more details, check out the full review here: Organyc Non-Toxic Pads.
What People are Saying about Organyc Hypoallergenic Pads
“I was happily surprised by how absorbent these pads are, without all the bulk or some of the other organic pads.”
“Normally I don’t wear pads because they always cause my skin to break out. However, I was looking for something after having a baby and ended up trying these ones. Can’t say enough good stuff about them, but the best thing is no more rashes.”
Where to Buy Organyc Hypoallergenic Pads
You can often find these organic maxi pads in natural, or health food stores. But they are often quite expensive. In our experience, shopping online is the best option for affordable organic pads.
Do you want to have a more eco-friendly, healthier period experience? Then check out Organyc Pads over on Amazon:
Compare Organic Maxi Pad Prices
#2 Organic Maxi Pad: Natratouch
Next up on our list of the best organic maxi pads are these ones from Natratouch. They’re also a trusted name in the organic feminine hygiene space, and make a wide range of products.
100% Organic Cotton
These pads are made from 100% organic cotton that is grown in the USA and are fully biodegradable. When you go organic with Natratouch, you’re making a great choice for the environment, as well as your health.
Over on Amazon, these sanitary napkins from Natratouch have some excellent user reviews. People mention how soft they are, as well as that the absorbency level is comparable to non-organic pads.
Although not cheap, you certainly get what you pay for and in this case, it’s a well-made, organic pad.
Hypoallergenic Sanitary Pads for Sensitive Skin
They’re also great for people with sensitive skin as they’re hypoallergenic. If you are allergic to conventional pads or tampons, try out these ones from Natratouch. Our guess is that you’ll notice the difference in a matter of days.
What People are Saying about Natratouch Pads
“I developed an allergy to the pads I’ve been using all my life, so made the switch to organics. These ones from Natratouch are the best of the bunch in terms of design and absorbency.”
“I used to get yeast infections almost every single period, so in desperation, I tried these ones. It worked! No more itching, burning hell!”
More Information and Where to Buy Natratrouch Hypoallergenic Maxi Pads
For more details, you’ll want to check out our full review: Natratouch Organic Maxi Pads.
Or, head on over to Amazon to check them out for yourself:
#3 Organic Sanitary Napkin: Rael
Although Rael is a bit of a newcomer to the scene, they’re quickly becoming a popular brand of non-toxic pads. They are a socially conscious company that also makes an excellent product.
Rael Organic Pads: Excellent Customer Reviews
Over on Amazon, Rael pads often have some of the best ratings in the category. Most people who try them really seem to like them. They mention that they’re soft, feel nice next to the skin and also that they stay in place very well.
In particular, Rael pads are ultra-thin, but absorb just as well as the thicker organic pads from other companies.
Rael Pads: All-Natural Product
We love that Rael pads are an all-natural product that doesn’t contain toxic chemicals. They’re much better for your health than conventional pads. They’re also better for the environment as they’re plastic free, and are entirely biodegradable, including the wrappers.
What People are Saying About Rael Certified Organic Pads
“I recently learned that normal pads contain a whole bunch of toxic chemicals in them. That’s the day that I ordered pantyliners, regular and overnight pads from Rael. I’m happy with all of them and they’re very similar to the ones I was using before, just without all the toxins.”
“Finally, a pad that doesn’t leave my skin burning after a couple days of using them! The other thing I love is that they somehow don’t stink after a few hours with them.”
More Details about Rael Maxi Pads
For more details, you’ll want to check out: Rael Organic Cotton Maxi Pads.
Or, you can check out prices and customer reviews for yourself over on Amazon. You’ll be well on your way to a more eco-friendly, healthier period experience.
Why Make the Switch to Organic Pads?
#4: All Natural Pad: Natracare
Next up on our list of the best organic maxi pads are these ones from Natracare. They’re made in Sweden and are entirely chlorine free. This makes them a safer, more environmentally friendly than normal pads.
Natracare Hypoallergenic Feminine Pads
Natracare pads are a top of the line choice if you’re looking to go green for your period. The only reason they don’t place higher is the price. They are among the most expensive non-toxic pads on the market today.
Over on Amazon, people mention that these organic pads are not too bulky and that they stay in place well. They’re very soft and feel nice next to the skin.
Sensitive Skin or Allergies? Try Natracare Organic Maxi Pads
If you have allergies or sensitive skin, you’ll want to give Natracare Pads a try. Our guess is that you’ll notice a big difference during your first cycle with them. They are hypoallergenic and shouldn’t irritate your skin.
Natracare Organic Sanitary Pad Reviews
“I used to get adult diaper rash from normal pads almost every single month. These ones? Not so much! I’m never going back to regular pads, no matter how cheap they get.”
“The feel of Natracare pads is great, and they’re only slightly less absorbent than normal pads. I just make sure to change it a bit more frequently and haven’t had a problem.”
Where to Buy Hypoallergenic Maxi Pads
For more details, check out the full review of these popular sanitary napkins: Natracare Organic Pads.
Or, you can head over to Amazon to see for yourself:
Natracare Organic Maxi Pads Review
#5: Organic Sanitary Pad: Seventh Generation
Taking the final spot on our list of the best organic maxi pads are these ones from Seventh Generation. These maxi pads are whitened without the use of chlorine and they’re also hypoallergenic and free from fragrances.
Affordable Hypoallergenic Pads for Periods
Although not organic, they are quite a more affordable than the other options on our list. If you’re looking for a sanitary napkin that won’t irritate your skin, but don’t want to spend $0.40 per pad, then you’ll need to consider Seventh Generation.
People mention that these pads are quite thick, but they’re also very absorbent. This makes them perfect if you have a heavy flow, or are using them post-partum or for incontinence. They also have some ultra-thin options available if that’s what you prefer.
Seventh Generation Sanitary Pad Reviews
“Surprisingly affordable for a product that doesn’t contain all sorts of chemicals.”
“Seventh Generation Pads offer some great absorbency and I can wear one during my heaviest flow for a lot of hours without leaking. I buy these again and again and plan on never switching!”
Maxi Pads for Sensitive Skin
If you’ve found that conventional pads irritate your skin, give these a try and we’re confident that you’ll notice a difference.
For more information, check out the full review here: Seventh Generation Chlorine Free Pads.
You can also head on over to Amazon to pick up some today:
#6: Cora Organic Pads
Okay, so we promised five organic pads, but we wanted to include a bonus one for you. While you can buy Cora Pads on Amazon, they also come via subscription service.
Cora Organic Pad Subscription
For those of you who are always running out to the store in a panic, you may want to consider Cora organic maxi pads delivered straight to your door each month. They’re a bit more expensive than just buying them online yourself, but many people are willing to pay for the convenience of a sanitary pad subscription service.
Similar to the other pads on the list, Cora Pads are made from 100% organic cotton that’s sustainably sourced. They’re free from fragrances and other toxic stuff that you probably don’t want anywhere near your skin.
In addition, every purchase helps a girl in an underdeveloped country to stay in school. Finally, Cora Organic pads contain no plastic, including the packaging. Sounds great, right?
Cora Organic Maxi Pads Reviews
“These things are amazing—very absorbent and best of all, free from all sorts of crap they put into regular pads. They’re a bit more expensive than some of the other all-natural pads, but they’re well designed and work well for me.”
“Cora pads are very comfortable and feel nice next to my skin. The best thing is no more rashes and skin irritation during my period.”
Learn More about Cora Organic Feminine Hygiene Products
You can learn more about them here: Cora Organic Pads Review.
Or, head over to Amazon to check our Cora Organic Pads for yourself:
What about Cherish All-Natural Pads?
You may have seen Cherish premium sanitary napkins all over YouTube and Facebook, advertising themselves as an all-natural option. Are they a good product, and how does Cherish compare to the other products on our list. Let’s find out!
Cherish sanitary napkins come in a wide range of sizes and absorbency levels. They also contain no toxic chemicals.
Here’s Where Cherish Pads Get Sketchy
Where they get kind of sketchy is the negative ion strip in them (some reports say that this is actually radioactive material that can be harmful for our health). The company makes all kinds of outrageous claims about this strip, saying that it can alleviate menstrual cramps, and reduce menstrual flow.
Of course, there is no science to back this stuff up.
The other thing about Cherish Sanitary Pads is that the company behind them, Nspire is basically a multi-level-marketing scheme. It’s likely the reason why this product is so expensive.
Although the actual cost of the package isn’t that much, there is a deceptively few pads in each box. It’s certainly a case of buyer beware and it’s for these reasons that we recommend giving Cherish Maxi Pads a wide berth.
Learn more here: Cherish All-Natural Maxi Pads Review.
Aren’t Organic Pads Kind of Expensive?
A common concern that people have is whether or not organic pads are too expensive. Can you really fit them into the monthly budget when there are lots of other pressing monthly concerns?
For us, they’re worth it. Exposure to toxic chemicals is something that we try to avoid whenever possible. Same with plastic waste that won’t biodegrade for hundreds of years.
Where to Buy the Best Organic Pads?
A quick tip. If you’re looking for organic pads, you may head over to your local health shop, or health food store. You should certainly be able to to find them there. However, you’ll also notice that they’re very expensive.
Try looking online (Amazon is a good starting place) and you’ll often find them for much cheaper, particularly if you buy something like a 3-pack. Shipping is often free with Amazon Prime. It makes a nice way to go organic, but minus the high price.
What about Reusable Cloth Pads?
If you’re looking to reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals during your period, then you’re making a wise choice by considering hypoallergenic pads. However, the main downside to organic maxi pads is that they can be a bit expensive.
The good news is that there’s another solution that’s far cheaper, but equally free of toxic chemicals and things that can irritate your sensitive skin.
Reusable cloth pads are quite similar to disposable pads but they’re made from cloth, bamboo, charcoal and other natural things. They stay in place with snaps on the wings instead of a sticky backing on them.
Cloth pads range in price from $5-20 per pad, depending on whether or not they’re handmade and/or organic. In general, the cheaper pads are fine and work well for most people. If you’re seriously frugal, you could even make your own reusable menstrual pads .
Which Cloth Pads do you Recommend?
For some of our top picks for cloth pads, you’ll want to check this out: The Best Organic Cloth Pads. Or, have a look at this comparison chart below:
Best Organic Cloth Pads
Best Overall | Most Durable | Most Customizable to Flow |
---|---|---|
Hesta Organic | Sckoon Organics | Glad Rags |
Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
What about Organic Tampons?
Organic tampons have many of the same benefits as hypoallergenic pads. They are better for the environment and also better for your health.
This is particularly true because unlike pads which are worn outside your body, tampons are inserted inside it. The walls of your vagina are very thin and it’s easy for toxic chemicals to pass through them into your bloodstream. It just makes sense to go organic if you’re going to use tampons.
You can check out some of our top picks here: The Best Organic Tampons. Or, take a look at our handy comparison chart below:
Why do Conventional Pads and Tampons Irritate My Skin?
Many people find that regular pads and tampons irritate their skin during their period. They can leave you feeling raw, red, itchy and all-around not so happy about your situation! Some people have the unfortunate situation of getting a rash almost every single month from these products around their period.
There are a few different reasons why these products can be irritating. We’ll outline a few of them here:
The Back Sheet of the Pad
The back of your sanitary pad if often made from a compound named Polyolefin, which has the potential to irritate the skin. You can also find this product in straws and ropes.
Absorbent Padding
The layer that absorbs fluid is usually made from foam and/or wood cellulose. There may also be absorbent gels that lock in menstrual flow. Depending on your skin, this may cause some irritation.
Dry Weave/Top Sheet
Since the top sheet is next to your skin, this is what can cause most of the irritation. Again, you can often find Polyolefins, as well as zinc oxide and petrolatum.
Adhesive
This is what helps the pad to stick to your underwear. The substance is similar to what you’d find in glue sticks.
Fragrances
If you have sensitive skin, avoid feminine pads with any sort of fragrance, as you may find this irritating.
Rubbing and Friction
One common cause of skin irritation during your period is you use sanitary pads is the rubbing and friction that can occur, particularly when exercising. This is especially true if you have very prominent labia.
An easy solution to this is to make the switch to an internal product, either tampons or a menstrual cup.
Dampness
Pads do an excellent job at keeping the moisture next to your skin. This is what you want in order to prevent leaks, but it’s certainly not ideal if you want to prevent skin irritation.
Your skin likes to be dry and cool, not hot and sweaty!
Think about this as kind of like the adult version of diaper rash.
Home Remedies for Rashes During your Period
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2779dHDywk
What’s the Solution to Maxi Pad Skin Irritation?
If you find yourself with raw, irritated skin every time you have your period because of wearing maxi pads, is there anything you can do? Here are a few ideas to consider:
Opt for Hypoallergenic Pads
Many people find that using organic maxi pads is the best solution for irritated skin with regular sanitary pads. It’s often the toxic chemicals in these products that are causing the irritation so making the switch helps to eliminate this.
As as added bonus, you’ll be making a much better choice for the environment too!
Change Pads Frequently Enough
Your skin doesn’t like to be damp and hot. Change pads frequently to avoid excess moisture next to the skin. A good rule is to use them for eight hours max. Of course, change them more often if you have sensitive skin.
Take Regular Showers
Good hygiene can go a long ways towards preventing irritated skin. Be sure to wash that area well with warm water, but you don’t need to use soap. Then, dry the area very well before putting on clothes.
Wear Loose-Fitting Clothing
Tight clothing can trap in heat and moisture. Wear looser clothing during your period for increased air flow.
Use an Internal Product
If you find that sanitary pads are irritating to your vulva, no matter what you do, then consider an internal product.
Many people have much better results after switching to tampons (consider organic ones), or a menstrual cup.
Organic Maxi Pads: Have your Say
What is your favourite brand of organic maxi pads? Leave a comment below and let us know your thoughts.