I got from GladRags a moisture proof bag that goes into a carrying bag that looks like a make-up bag. The pads themselves come with 2 inserts, you can use it alone or with one or two of the inserts depending on how heavy you bleed. I put in 2 on the heavier days and I don’t bleed through. When I change them out I can fold them up without touching any blood, put them in the moisture proof bag and put a new one in my panties. When I get home I fill the sink with cold water, let them soak for 15 minutes, rinse them and throw them in the washer, after 2 or 3 days there are enough to justify a small load. No, they don’t smell. And unlike disposable pads I have never had a leakage issue. If you look at the GladRags website (www.gladrags.com) under Info there is FAQ.

BTW Instead is a disposable cup like a diaphragm but it’s for your period and GladRags does sell the reusable cup that looks more like a cervical cap for the same purpose. I tried Instead but that is much grosser, much much grosser.

Parsed for your pleasure.

“I believe I had TSS during high school and I am weary of using tampons – they scare me a bit, but I cannot gush enough about your product”

“is there a more convenient way to live? Not to mention the money I save, the pollution I no longer create, the lushness of my menstrual blood-swilling plants and the chemicals I no longer jam into my body every month!”

“My period always lasts for 7 days and that can put a real damper on a woman’s sex life. I tried the sponge out for that too, after my flowed slowed up a bit. It was comfortable and clean”

“I just wanted to write to tell you of my extreme satisfaction with your Sea Pearl Sea Sponge Tampons. I am nursing my first child and the low estrogen levels due to breastfeeding have caused decreased lubrication and thin vaginal walls”

When I first saw it, I thought it was the reusable sandwich bag. Just put the sammie in the middle and fold the flaps over it.

Only with the clean ones obviously!

Jade and Pearl Sea Sponge Tampons are another great reusable, all-natural internal menstrual option from the past. Sustainably harvested, sea sponge tampons are easy to use and easy on the pocketbook. Your sea sponge tampons will last you at least 6 months.

Simply moisten or wash out and reinsert every 4 - 6 hours, or as often as you would change a tampon. To clean, simply soak the sponges in vinegar overnight or boil it before and after your cycle; air dry

I’m sorry… did I just make ya gag again?

You didn’t make me gag, you made me throw up. UGH!! Of course I immediately had to go and surf the interwebs until I found out more information. Lucky for you all, I did. Click here for more wonderful information about the sea sponge tampons.

The thought of having to clean them after use is absolutely revolting to me. -CS

Good question! -CS

If you want to go really “green” though; take a look at menstrual cups!
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Menstrual_cup

The cups are even worse. I’ve heard horror stories about having to take those out and how the blood gets all over the place. No thank you. -CS

Those are cups, they’re different. Not that I would ever use them, though. -CS