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Last week, I shared what you’ve always wanted to know about cloth pads, reviewed some cloth pad companies and showed how much you can save by switching to reusable options.

If you aren’t into the idea of using cloth pads, there are still many other options for you!

Menstrual Panties

Have you heard about menstrual panties? I didn’t till a few months ago. Once I heard about them, I really wanted to try them out. They sounded good for backup but they were very pricey. I recently found them on wish.com and decided to test them out. Menstrual panties are supposed to be able to be used in place of a pad or a tampon. I tested the panties the same way I had tested cloth pads. It soaked through immediately. The only thing that made them menstrual panties was a super thin extra piece of fabric.

I took the chance on another pair from aliexpress.com and am pleased. The fabric is much thicker and not as cheap feeling as the other pair. They help up to my test. They are the equivalent of a moderate cloth pad, absorbency wise. I do not like the fabric, though. I have issues with certain textures. But, I guess this just goes to show that sometimes, you get what you pay for. Like I did with the first pair I bought.

In the picture below it is just water on them. I can control my bladder, thank you very much. I am amazed at how much they hold! That’s about a quarter of a cup of water. The back is totally dry.

Sea Sponge Tampons

I only found about these when I was researching this post. I’m upset that I didn’t get the chance to order any before writing. They are definitely on my list of things to order in the future. I love that they are all-natural, which greatly reduces the risk of toxic shock syndrome. I’m not sure how they would be comfort-wise though. I would love any opinions you have on them.

Menstrual Cups

I absolutely love my menstrual cups. They have saved me hundreds of dollars in the past few years. Don’t be afraid of the upfront cost of cups. I’ve tried some of the expensive, name-brand options and didn’t like them. I’ve found that the cheaper ones work just as good. I use one that I ordered from Amazon for very cheap and another that I received for a review. You should be aware that it’s important to get one that’s the right size and shape for your body type. I have so much to say about menstrual cups that I’m dedicating an entire post to them later this week. I store my cups in a mason jar that doubles as a cleaning jar.

Cotton Tampons

Cotton tampons are perfect for those who want the convenience of a tampon with the cost saving aspect of cloth pads. I bought a sample pack from Cloth Junkies (full review later this week) to try but haven’t had a chance to yet. I will share my thoughts about them when I do. They are pretty much just a small bit of fabric with a string attached. You roll it together and then insert.

Intra-Labial Pads

I never heard of this option till I saw it listed in an Etsy shop. These are great for women who have very light flows. They are quite small but does the job. They are also good for a backup when using tampons or a menstrual cup.