The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.

What we look for:

  • Natural, breathable materials like organic cotton or bamboo
  • Minimal synthetics—ideally not in direct contact with skin
  • Always free from PFAS, fragrance, dyes, chlorine, parabens, phthalates, and formaldehyde-releasing compounds
  • Trusted third-party certifications like MADE SAFE or EWG VERIFIED
  • Full transparency around ingredients and materials

View our full standards here.

Our Methodology and Ratings

Find Non-Toxic Feminine Pads

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Organic Cotton Pads - Lola

Organic Cotton Pads - Lola
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.95
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/feminine-care" target="_blank">feminine care standards</a> and contains no endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrance, or other no list ingredients.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#gots-certified" target="_blank">GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) Certification</a> verifies that textiles are organically produced and processed from harvest to final product.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product is free from heavy metals like lead and cadmium, which can build up in the body and are linked to developmental, reproductive, and organ toxicity.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is made with organic materials, reducing exposure to pesticides and chemicals linked to hormone, fertility, and neurological issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is cruelty-free, meaning it was not tested on animals—look for certification from Leaping Bunny or PETA to verify the claim.
This product is free from chlorine, a respiratory irritant often found in cleaning and bleaching agents.
This product does not contain PFAS, a group of forever chemicals used to make things nonstick, stain-resistant, or waterproof. That includes PTFE, PFOA, and thousands of other compounds linked to hormone disruption and long-term health risks.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.
This product is free from all fragrance.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$24.99
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Product Details

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  • Ultra-thin pads designed to fit your underwear with less chafing and bunching.
  • 40% more absorbent for reliable protection throughout the day.
  • Features an innovative hourglass silhouette for enhanced leak protection.
  • Made with organic cotton and free from toxins and dyes.
  • Gynecologist-approved and suitable for a wide range of underwear sizes.
  • Committed to high-quality, clean ingredients for peace of mind.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Made with organic and natural ingredients, perfect for health-conscious users.
  • Comfortable and soft, reducing irritation and suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Reliable and efficient absorption without leaks for everyday protection.
  • Lightweight and discreet, ideal for postpartum use.

Cons

  • Some users experienced design issues, like wing tearing or top layer fraying.
  • A few users noticed changes in softness and quality compared to previous versions.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Certified Organic Cotton (Topsheet), Polypropylene (Liquid Distribution Layer), Polyethylene (Backsheet and Wrapper), Cellulose (Core), Acrylic Acid (Super Absorbent Polymer in Core), Non-Toxic Hot Melt Adhesives

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Ultra Pads with Wings - Natracare

Ultra Pads with Wings - Natracare
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.95
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/feminine-care" target="_blank">feminine care standards</a> and contains no endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrance, or other no list ingredients.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#made-safe" target="_blank">Made Safe certification</a> ensures that products are free from harmful chemicals and prioritize human health and ecosystem safety. <a href="https://madesafe.org/products/natracare-natural-ultra-pads?_pos=13&_sid=94fce6306&_ss=r" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product does not contain Bisphenol S (BPS), a common BPA replacement used in plastics with similar health risks.
This product is free from heavy metals like lead and cadmium, which can build up in the body and are linked to developmental, reproductive, and organ toxicity.
This product is free from harsh sulfates like SLS and SLES, which can strip skin and scalp and trigger irritation.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product does not contain Bisphenol F (BPF), a lesser-known BPA replacement used in plastics with similar hormone-disrupting effects.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product does not contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a plastic chemical linked to hormone disruption. BPA-free is a good start, but alternatives like BPS and BPF can be just as harmful, so we call those out too.
This product is free from chlorine, a respiratory irritant often found in cleaning and bleaching agents.
This product does not contain PFAS, a group of forever chemicals used to make things nonstick, stain-resistant, or waterproof. That includes PTFE, PFOA, and thousands of other compounds linked to hormone disruption and long-term health risks.
This product is plastic free, reducing exposure to microplastics and harmful chemical leaching. That also means it is free from BPA, BPS, and BPF—common plasticizers linked to hormone disruption.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.
This product is free from all fragrance.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$14.99
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Product Details

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  • Soft certified organic cotton cover for comfort.
  • Absorbent cellulose core to keep you dry throughout the day.
  • Waterproof plant-based back offers reliable protection.
  • Individually wrapped in biodegradable purse packs for convenience.
  • Wings designed for a secure fit and added confidence.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Soft and absorbent, offering great comfort with an eco-friendly twist.
  • Breathable and doesn't stick, even in hot and humid conditions.
  • Organic cotton reduces risk of irritation, suitable for sensitive skin.
  • Biodegradable and compostable, perfect for the eco-conscious consumer.

Cons

  • Some users feel they could be thicker for heavy flows.
  • A few users mention the adhesive might not hold as securely as expected.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Certified Organic Cotton, Ecologically Certified Cellulose Pulp, Plant Starch, Non-Toxic Glue

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Certified Organic Cotton Feminine Pads - Organyc

Certified Organic Cotton Feminine Pads - Organyc
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.95
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/feminine-care" target="_blank">feminine care standards</a> and contains no endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrance, or other no list ingredients.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#made-safe" target="_blank">Made Safe certification</a> ensures that products are free from harmful chemicals and prioritize human health and ecosystem safety. <a href="https://madesafe.org/products/organyc-moderate-flow-menstrual-pads?_pos=5&_sid=61f4d199d&_ss=r" target="_blank">Source</a>.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product does not contain Bisphenol S (BPS), a common BPA replacement used in plastics with similar health risks.
This product is free from heavy metals like lead and cadmium, which can build up in the body and are linked to developmental, reproductive, and organ toxicity.
This product is free from harsh sulfates like SLS and SLES, which can strip skin and scalp and trigger irritation.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product does not contain Bisphenol F (BPF), a lesser-known BPA replacement used in plastics with similar hormone-disrupting effects.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product does not contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a plastic chemical linked to hormone disruption. BPA-free is a good start, but alternatives like BPS and BPF can be just as harmful, so we call those out too.
This product is free from chlorine, a respiratory irritant often found in cleaning and bleaching agents.
This product does not contain PFAS, a group of forever chemicals used to make things nonstick, stain-resistant, or waterproof. That includes PTFE, PFOA, and thousands of other compounds linked to hormone disruption and long-term health risks.
This product is plastic free, reducing exposure to microplastics and harmful chemical leaching. That also means it is free from BPA, BPS, and BPF—common plasticizers linked to hormone disruption.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.
This product is free from all fragrance.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$12.06
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Product Details

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  • Made from 100% certified organic cotton with no chemicals or toxic materials.
  • Proven to reduce skin irritation, ideal for women with sensitive skin.
  • Hypoallergenic, free from chlorine, latex, parabens, and perfumes.
  • Ultra absorbent and pH balanced for comfort and reliability.
  • Biodegradable and compostable, supporting an eco-friendly lifestyle.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Organic and made with 100% cotton, perfect for sensitive skin.
  • Free from harmful chemicals and fragrances.
  • Compostable, making them environmentally friendly for eco-conscious users.
  • Provides reliable coverage and has good adhesion, staying in place during use.
  • Tends to reduce irritation and discomfort, offering a more pleasant experience.

Cons

  • Some users find the absorbency insufficient for heavy flow or overnight use.
  • Individually wrapped in plastic, which might not appeal to those seeking plastic-free options.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Certified Organic Cotton (Top Sheet + Absorbent Core), Mater-Bi Cornstarch-Based Material (Backsheet + Wrapper), Non-Toxic Biodegradable Adhesive

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Organic Cotton Pads with Wings - Tampon Tribe

Organic Cotton Pads with Wings - Tampon Tribe
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.9
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/feminine-care" target="_blank">feminine care standards</a> and contains no endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrance, or other no list ingredients.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#gots-certified" target="_blank">GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) Certification</a> verifies that textiles are organically produced and processed from harvest to final product.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product is free from heavy metals like lead and cadmium, which can build up in the body and are linked to developmental, reproductive, and organ toxicity.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is made with organic materials, reducing exposure to pesticides and chemicals linked to hormone, fertility, and neurological issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is free from chlorine, a respiratory irritant often found in cleaning and bleaching agents.
This product does not contain PFAS, a group of forever chemicals used to make things nonstick, stain-resistant, or waterproof. That includes PTFE, PFOA, and thousands of other compounds linked to hormone disruption and long-term health risks.
This product is plastic free, reducing exposure to microplastics and harmful chemical leaching. That also means it is free from BPA, BPS, and BPF—common plasticizers linked to hormone disruption.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.
This product is free from all fragrance.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GREAT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the middle third of the best products.
Est. Price
$15.99
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Product Details

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  • Made from 100% non-toxic organic cotton, ensuring comfort and safety.
  • Ultra-thin and lightweight design offers a nearly invisible wearing experience.
  • Specially made for sensitive skin, being vegan, dye-free, and fragrance-free.
  • Provides reliable leak protection with secure biopolymer adhesives.
  • Individually wrapped in sustainable materials for an eco-friendly choice.
  • Helps control odor and maintain freshness throughout the day.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Cotton and biodegradable, offering comfort and sustainability.
  • Non-toxic and free from harsh chemicals, ensuring safety for sensitive users.
  • Organic and breathable, providing a natural alternative.
  • Supports a good cause by donating to girls in need.
  • Pleasant and discreet design suitable for everyday use.

Cons

  • Some users notice that the adhesive may not hold well for those with higher flow.
  • A few find that it could leak if the cotton becomes too wet.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Certified Organic Cotton (Absorbent Core + Top Sheet)

Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.

Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.

User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.

Reusable Menstrual Pads - Rael

Reusable Menstrual Pads  - Rael
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.85
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/feminine-care" target="_blank">feminine care standards</a> and contains no endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrance, or other no list ingredients.</p>
<p>The <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#organic-content-standard" target="_blank">Organic Content Standard (OCS)</a> certifies and verifies organic materials and chain of custody, ensuring products contain only materials from certified organic farms.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is made with organic materials, reducing exposure to pesticides and chemicals linked to hormone, fertility, and neurological issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product is cruelty-free, meaning it was not tested on animals—look for certification from Leaping Bunny or PETA to verify the claim.
This product does not contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a plastic chemical linked to hormone disruption. BPA-free is a good start, but alternatives like BPS and BPF can be just as harmful, so we call those out too.
This product is free from chlorine, a respiratory irritant often found in cleaning and bleaching agents.
This product does not contain PFAS, a group of forever chemicals used to make things nonstick, stain-resistant, or waterproof. That includes PTFE, PFOA, and thousands of other compounds linked to hormone disruption and long-term health risks.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.
This product is free from all fragrance.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. An EXCELLENT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the top third of the best products.
Est. Price
$36.99
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Product Details

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  • Crafted with certified organic cotton, free from toxins, chlorine, pesticides, and fragrances to ensure a safe experience.
  • Maintains maximum airflow to reduce odors and irritation while providing effective period protection.
  • Features a secure fit with a snap closure to prevent shifting, ensuring comfort throughout wear.
  • Utilizes unique leak-locker technology with channels and side panels to prevent leaks and allow active lifestyles.
  • Designed for easy care, enabling seamless integration into your regular laundry routine.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Exceptionally comfortable and gentle on sensitive skin, preventing irritation.
  • Highly absorbent, providing reliable protection for light to moderate days.
  • Soft, breathable materials that enhance comfort and are non-toxic.
  • Eco-friendly choice, reducing waste and single-use product dependency.
  • Snug fit with snap closure, stays in place during sedentary activities.

Cons

  • May slide or shift during more active days, needing occasional adjustment for those who move a lot.
  • Cleaning process requires soaking, which may not be ideal for everyone.

Ingredients

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Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.


To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.


Ingredients: Certified Organic Cotton (Top and Absorbent Layers), 99% Cotton, 1% Polyurethane (Backing), 100% Cotton with Nickel Snaps (Snap Closure)

Bamboo Organic Pads - Viv For Your V

Bamboo Organic Pads - Viv For Your V
Welpr Rating
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Welpr rating icon
4.7
/5
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Certifications

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<p>This product is <a href="https://www.welpr.com/certifications#welpr-approved" target="_blank">Welpr Approved</a>, meaning it has been vetted against our <a href="https://www.welpr.com/how-we-vet-products/feminine-care" target="_blank">feminine care standards</a> and contains no endocrine disruptors, synthetic fragrance, or other no list ingredients.</p>

Highlights

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This product is vegan, meaning it contains no animal-derived ingredients—look for a certification like PETA or Vegan.org to verify the claim.
This product is free from synthetic dyes that may irritate skin or cause behavioral issues.
This product is free from phthalates, a type of plasticizer linked to hormone disruption and reduced fertility.
This product is free from formaldehyde and formaldehyde-releasing agents, preservatives that release toxic gas linked to cancer, allergies, and skin irritation.
This product does not contain Bisphenol A (BPA), a plastic chemical linked to hormone disruption. BPA-free is a good start, but alternatives like BPS and BPF can be just as harmful, so we call those out too.
This product is free from chlorine, a respiratory irritant often found in cleaning and bleaching agents.
This product does not contain PFAS, a group of forever chemicals used to make things nonstick, stain-resistant, or waterproof. That includes PTFE, PFOA, and thousands of other compounds linked to hormone disruption and long-term health risks.
This product is plastic free, reducing exposure to microplastics and harmful chemical leaching. That also means it is free from BPA, BPS, and BPF—common plasticizers linked to hormone disruption.
This product is free from parabens, a class of preservatives linked to hormone disruption and breast cancer.
This product is free from all fragrance.

User Satisfaction

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We only include products on Welpr that are the best of the best. A GREAT user satisfaction score indicates the product is in the middle third of the best products.
Est. Price
$9.15
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Product Details

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  • Provides maximum leak protection with a flexible design that locks in fluids.
  • Crafted with a natural bamboo core, free from BPA, dyes, and other harmful substances.
  • Saves the equivalent of 48 plastic bags per period by using sustainable materials.
  • Four times more absorbent than traditional brands, offering ultimate comfort and protection.
  • Designed to keep you active with flexible wings for freedom of movement.

Pros & Cons

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Pros

  • Super absorbent and comfortable for both day and overnight use.
  • Made with eco-friendly, biodegradable materials and free of toxins.
  • Innovative design with double wings for added security and leak protection.
  • Thin and lightweight, perfect for discreet wear in all types of clothing.
  • Ordered by health-conscious consumers who appreciate transparent ingredient lists.

Cons

  • Some users find the adhesive may not stick well to all types of underwear.
  • Those with a heavier flow might find the pads too thin for optimal absorbency.

Ingredients

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Ingredients: Natural Bamboo & Corn Fiber, Wood Pulp, Sumitomo SAP, Corn Starch-Based PLA, PBAT, Hot Melt Adhesive (Pad & Liner), Corn Starch-Based PLA, PBAT (Wrapper)

Our Product Rating System

Our Product Rating System

First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.

Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.

Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.

Welpr Rating:

5.0/5

The Welpr Rating takes into account 3 things:

  1. Product Safety
  2. Consumer Satisfaction
  3. Ethics & Environment
Product safety

Part 1: Product safety

We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.

Consumer satisfaction

Part 2: Consumer satisfaction

We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).

Ethics & Environment

Part 3: Ethics & Environment

When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.

Common Harmful Chemicals in Feminine Pads

Chemical Name

Why it’s harmful

Fluorine

Fluorinated compounds, including Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are used in cosmetics like foundation, powder, mascara, and anti-aging products. These compounds are known for their stability and are challenging to break down in the environment, with some found in remote regions. PTFE, often used for its smooth finish, can be derived from perfluorooctonoic acid (PFOA), which might leave residual PFOA in the final product. PFOA has been associated with cancer, mammary cancer, reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, and environmental concerns. While research on PTFE's direct cancer-causing potential is inconclusive, PFOA, a contaminant in PTFE-containing products, has health implications. PFOA has been detected in adults' body fluids worldwide and has links to mammary gland changes, endocrine disruption, delayed puberty in girls, and reproductive toxicity, including low birth weight. Additionally, it may affect the carcinogenicity of other chemicals when exposed together.

Phthalate

Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.

1,4-Dioxane

1,4-Dioxane is a clear, water-soluble liquid that is primarily used as a solvent in chemical manufacturing and laboratory reagents. Other uses leverage its solvent properties, including cosmetics, detergents, and shampoos. However, manufacturers generally reduce 1,4-Dioxane to low levels in these products due to its potential health risks. Acute exposure can result in symptoms such as vertigo, drowsiness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage, and the substance is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. Notably, severe kidney and liver damage, CNS effects, and even death have been recorded after heavy or prolonged exposure.

Sources: 
Perfluorooctane Sulfonic Acid (PFOS)

Perfluoroalkyls are synthetic chemicals known for their ability to resist oil, grease, and water, primarily used in surface protection products and fire-fighting foams. The two most abundant perfluoroalkyls are perflurooctanoic acid (PFOA) and perfluorooctane sulfonic acid (PFOS). Studies have observed liver enlargement and elevated cholesterol in animals given high doses, and the presence of PFOS in various populations has raised environmental and health concerns, leading to the phase-out of some PFOS-based chemicals. Tests have shown a range of health effects in animals, including eye irritation, liver changes, teratogenic effects, and more, with no evidence of mutagenicity. However, no substantial link has been found between PFAS concentrations and increased cardiometabolic risk measures in human studies, and there are no known health effects from exposure when used as intended.

Perfluorooctanoic Acid (PFOA)

Perfluorooctanoic acid (PFOA) is primarily used to create salts that aid in the processing of producing fluoropolymers and fluoroelastomers. It also acts as a surfactant in firefighting foams, an intermediate in creating fluoroacrylic esters, and a crucial aspect in manufacturing Teflon and similar chemicals. However, exposure to PFOA can lead to adverse health effects, including alterations in thyroid hormone levels, lower fertility, an increased risk of cerebrovascular disease, higher cholesterol and triglyceride levels, a possible link to ADHD, smaller abdominal circumference and birth length in infants, an increased risk of common cold and gastroenteritis in children, and potentially prostate cancer mortality. Studies on animals have indicated possible liver and brain dysfunction, carcinogenicity, and reproductive and developmental toxicity. Ecotoxicity studies found alterations in genes linked to lipid metabolism, hormone action, immune responses, and mitochondrial functions in rare minnows exposed to PFOA.

Benzene

Benzene is a colorless, sweet-smelling, highly flammable liquid that evaporates quickly into the air and slightly dissolves in water. It's a byproduct of both natural processes and human activities, used extensively in the U.S production of other chemicals for plastics, resins, nylon, rubbers, lubricants, dyes, detergents, drugs, and pesticides. Present in crude oil, gasoline, and cigarette smoke, benzene is also released into the air from burning coal, oil, gasoline stations, and vehicle exhaust. Short-term exposure may cause drowsiness, dizziness, and irritation, while long-term exposure leads to blood disorders, reproductive effects, and even leukemia. Benzene has been classified by EPA as a known human carcinogen, and regulations apply to various industry sectors with potentially high exposure risks.

Sources: 
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Authors

Camille May, Product Curator

Hey, I’m Camille—co-creator of Welpr and your go-to guide for all things clean living. After selling my last company in the health food space, I went non-toxic to heal an autoimmune condition. It did wonders for my health, but navigating which products to buy wasn’t easy. We built Welpr to make that journey feel a bit easier.  When I’m not working on Welpr, you’ll usually find me in the sauna, sipping a raw milk latte while doing a puzzle, or walking with my pit bull Romeo in my hometown of Austin, TX.

Olushola M. Awoyemi, Medical Reviewer

Olushola M. Awoyemi (aka Shola) is a board-certified toxicologist and a research scientist with a PhD in Environmental Toxicology. Shola's long-term ambition is to be recognized as a world-renowned expert in toxicology, risk assessment, and management, with experience spanning across institutions like the US EPA, US FDA, NIEHS, USDA, UNEP, WHO, and possibly within Fortune 100 companies in the Chemical, Healthcare, Pharmaceutical, Consumer goods, or IT sectors.

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