Sustainable Menstrual Care Products at Vessel | How to Have a Zero-Waste Period

Let’s talk periods. For far too long menstruation has been a hush-hush topic, leaving menstruating individuals to suffer in silence with only the products immediately visible and accessible to them. But we all know that if cis men had a period, we’d never hear the end of it! 

There are soooo many spaces that are built for and designed around white, cishet men’s needs. Vessel is the antithesis of that. (I once had a customer recommend that I stock some more “boy scents” in reference to my soap options… Respectfully? No thanks. And I’m speaking as someone who prefers more masculine scents! Is it so bad for an environment to primarily cater to folks who aren’t cishet men? In a patriarchal world, I’m proud to have created a soft, whimsical environment designed by a woman, for women, femmes, trans folks, and gender non-conforming cuties! Anyway, back to periods, lol…

That’s why you’ll see sustainable menstrual products displayed high and proud at Vessel Refills. Not everyone has an easy time with their period, but is it possible to embrace your menstrual cycle while doing good for the planet? I believe so! 

Why Go Zero-Waste for Your Period?

The average person who menstruates will use between 5,000 and 15,000 disposable pads and tampons in their lifetime according to some sources. That’s a lot of plastic, packaging, and landfill buildup – especially considering most pads are made from 90% plastic and take hundreds of years to break down.

Not to mention the cost. Reusable period care might seem pricey up front, but it pays off within months and can last for years with proper care. The environmental benefits are obvious, but the comfort, convenience, and body-positivity that come with reusable products? That’s where it gets really good.

What I Carry at Vessel for a Zero-Waste Menstrual Cycle

Let’s get into what you came for: the goods. These are the sustainable period care products I currently stock at Vessel and why I love them.

Flex Reusable Disc

The Flex Reusable Disc is a game-changer. It sits higher up in the vaginal canal than a cup and holds up to 6x the fluid of a tampon. It’s designed to be worn comfortably for up to 12 hours – even during penetrative sex if you want – and is perfect for folks who prefer disc-style products over traditional cups. 

In my opinion, the disc is more comfortable than the cup because it doesn’t rely on suction to stay in place. This also makes it a great option for people with IUDs! 

Plus, it self empties when you sit down to use the restroom! This means mess-free “cup dumping” in public restrooms. If you’ve used a cup before, then you know the stress of having to try to find a restroom with a private sink lest you come out of the stall looking like Khaleesi from season one of Game of Thrones with blood all over your hands just to use the communal sink. 

If you have any questions about switching to a disc, feel free to ask! I love this product and I’d be happy to tell you my tips and tricks.

Flex Plant+ Disc

This disposable version of the Flex Disc is made with 100% plant-based materials. Same leak-proof comfort, but made with eco-conscious materials. It’s the first FDA-registered plant-based menstrual disc, which is pretty rad. I think it’s a great entry level disc as it’s a lower price point than the reusable disc! This allows you to try it out for a cycle without having to commit to the silicone disc just yet. Having an eco-friendly disposable option is a great happy medium. 

Vasheen pH Balanced Vulva Wash Bar

Vasheen is a multi-purpose bar that is pH balanced, gentle on sensitive skin, and great for washing both your body and your disc or cup. It’s plastic-free, long-lasting, and made by Sea Witch Botanicals – one of my favorite small-batch, inclusive, queer-friendly brands.

BidetToob Portable Bidet

Listen, this is a must-have. The BidetToob is a portable bidet that is ideal for mid-cycle refreshes, washing on the go, or just staying extra fresh during your period. It’s discreet, easy to use, and a total game changer for travel days or festival weekends.

It’s also fantastic for camping! All you’ll have to pack in and out is your portable bidet and maybe an extra washcloth to pat dry for easy breezy sh***ing in the woods. 

Recommended Pairings (Online Faves I Stand Behind)

Some items I don’t currently stock in store, but I highly recommend pairing with the above products to complete your low-waste lineup.

Leakproof Period Boxers
For heavy days, overnight flow, or just comfy backup while free-bleeding or using a disc, period boxers are it. I love these from Aisle and Knix. They’re gender-neutral, size-inclusive, and work great on their own or with other products.

Leakproof Thongs
If you’re out and about and want some invisible backup, Knix’s leakproof thong is sleek, comfy, and surprisingly absorbent for such a small piece of fabric. It’s my go-to for backup protection on travel days or while using a disc.

How to Care for Your Reusable Period Products

Reusable doesn’t mean complicated. With a little care, your disc or cup can last for years. Here’s how I recommend keeping things clean and comfy:

• Wash your disc or cup after each use with warm water and a mild, unscented soap like the Vasheen Wash Bar.
  
• Boil it for 5–10 minutes between cycles to sanitize. Use a small sauce pan (or a dedicated pot if you prefer) and a pair of tongs to ensure the disc doesn’t touch the bottom of the pan. We want to avoid scorching the silicone!
  
• Store it in a breathable container, not an airtight plastic bag. Most come with a storage pouch or case. The Flex Disc comes with it’s own cutie little cotton drawstring pouch.
  
• Avoid harsh soaps, scented products, or anything with essential oils directly on the disc as they can throw off pH and damage the material. When in doubt, water is best!
  

And remember: period underwear needs love too. Rinse in cold water after use until the water runs clear, then toss in the wash on gentle with mild detergent. Hang dry for best results.

Bonus Tip: Raspberry Leaf Tea for Cramp Relief

This one’s more of a personal tip, but I swear by it. Raspberry leaf tea is a gentle uterine tonic that many people (myself included) use for easing cramps and balancing their cycle. It’s caffeine-free, earthy, and you can drink it hot or iced. Add a little local honey and oatmilk if you're feeling fancy. Milk and honey make every tea a delectable delight to look forward to. 

It's not a cure-all, but it's a great addition to your self-care routine during your cycle. You can find it at most health food stores or online.

TL;DR – Build Your Zero-Waste Period Kit with Love (and Less Plastic)

Switching to reusable menstrual care is one of the most impactful (and empowering) sustainability swaps you can make. At Vessel, I’ve curated products I believe in – options that work, that last, and that honor all bodies. Because all cycles of life are beautiful! 

Whether you’re bleeding heavy, light, or somewhere in between... whether you’re on your first disc or your fiftieth... you deserve care that feels good, works well, and doesn’t create a mountain of waste in the process.

Come visit us in-store in Escondido, ask your questions, grab what you need, and know that you’re always welcome here.