Sustainable Periods Just Got Easier (Thanks to Our Local Shire)

Periods are a normal and healthy part of life—but they can create a lot of waste. Every year, millions of disposable pads and tampons are thrown away. Most of them end up in landfill or even in our oceans, taking hundreds of years to break down. That’s not good for our planet.

But there’s a better way.

Reusable Period Products: A Smart, Sustainable Choice

Did you know there are period products you can use again and again?

These are called reusable period products, and they include:

Period underwear (they look just like undies but absorb period blood)
Menstrual cups (soft silicone cups that collect blood inside your body)
Reusable pads (cloth pads that you wash and use again)

These products are better for the environment and your wallet—because you don’t need to keep buying new ones every month. You’re saving money and reducing waste every time you wear them.

They are also very comfortable and to use and clean but take a little getting used to – especially Menstrual Cups.

Local Support: Get Money Back from Your Shire!

Here’s the exciting part:
If you live in the Shire of Augusta Margaret River, you can now claim a rebate—that means getting some money back—when you buy reusable period products.

This shows that your Shire cares about:

Healthier choices for your body
Kinder choices for the planet
More affordable options for families

It’s a brilliant step forward, and I’m so proud to see local councils making menstrual wellbeing a priority.

How to Claim Your Rebate

Buy your reusable period product(s)
Keep your receipt
Visit your Shire’s website or click link below
Fill out the rebate form
Upload your receipt and submit your form
Get your money back (rebate amounts vary by council)

Some programs have limited spots, so get in early!

How to Clean Your Reusable Period Products

Keeping your reusables clean is easy—here’s how:

🩲 Period Underwear

Rinse in cold water after use until the water runs mostly clear
Wash in the washing machine (cold or warm cycle)
Hang to dry in the sun or fresh air

🩹 Reusable Pads

Rinse in cold water
Wash by hand or machine (delicates bag helps)
Hang to dry before storing

🩸 Menstrual Cups

Rinse with water between uses
Boil for 5 minutes at the end of your cycle
Store in a breathable pouch

Once you’ve done it a few times, it becomes second nature!

My Favourite Reusables

As a menstrual health educator, I’ve seen what a difference reusable products can make for girls and families. My top picks include:

Modibodi Teen Underwear – great fit, leak-proof and comfy
Hello Cup – a beginner-friendly menstrual cup designed in New Zealand
Hannahpad Reusable Pads – soft, colourful and easy to wash

Every person is different, so it’s worth exploring what feels right for your body and lifestyle.

Share With a Friend

If you know someone who menstruates—or will soon—send them this post!

Let’s spread the word about sustainable period care and help more people access these life-changing, planet-friendly products.