User Guide Cloth tampons

Why cloth tampons?

Functionally, there is no major difference between cloth tampons and regular tampons. The difference is that cloth tampons are much kinder to the environment than the disposable version, as they are washable and can therefore be used again and again. Our cloth tampons are gentle on the skin and mucous membranes as they are made of 100% organic cotton (except for the string which is made of cotton/polyester) and are comfortable to use.

Can everyone use cloth tampons?

Just like with disposable tampons or menstrual cups, not everyone can use cloth tampons. And you won't know until you've tried.

This is how cloth tampons work

How often you should change tampons and what size you should use depends on how heavy your period is, something that varies during the menstrual period. Do not use a larger size than you need and adjust the size according to how much you bleed. If you have too big a tampon inside, you will notice the fact that it feels dry when you pull it out. And then you can disturb your sensitive mucous membranes. You should change your tampon regularly every 4-6 hours.

During the first days of your period when the bleeding is heavier, it may be appropriate to use a tampon with greater absorbency and you can change your tampon more often, for example, every 4 hours. Towards the end of your period, the bleeding becomes lighter and you probably don't need to change as often. Don't forget to remove the old tampon when you change to a new one, and... don't forget to take out the last tampon at the end of your period.

• Sleep with a tampon

  It is fine to sleep with cloth tampons, but we still recommend changing tampons every 4-6 hours.

• Exercise, sports, yoga, and riding with a tampon?

Works perfectly. To avoid leakage, you can change to a new one before your workout. The cloth tampon does not quite have the same absorbency as disposable tampons.

• Swimming with a tampon?

It is fine to swim with a cloth tampon. We recommend that you change tampons after you have finished swimming. Unless you swim for more than 6 hours, then we recommend that you change every six hours. But most people probably don't swim for that long.

Do not use cloth tampons in the following cases:

• If you have had Toxic shock syndrome (TSS)

• If you have bleeding that comes after abortion, miscarriage, or childbirth, or after an operative intervention in the abdomen. In these situations, it is considered that there is an increased risk of infection if tampons are used.

• Instead of condoms, birth control pills, IUDs, or pessaries. Cloth tampons are not contraceptives.

• If you do not have a period, do not use it for discharge between periods. This can exacerbate the problem of bacterial flora imbalance.

How to insert a cloth tampon?

1. Wash the tampons before first use, by washing machine or by boiling for one minute. However, they must be dry when they are to be used, let the tampons air dry - then they will last the longest.

2. Wash your hands. Start by rolling up the tampon, starting at the end without the string. Roll it quite compactly and then wind up the string to the desired length.

3. If you want, you can tie a knot so that the tampon stays rolled up at the outlet. But only make a knot, otherwise, it can be difficult to get up. The washable tampons are not as smooth as disposable tampons, which can make them feel a little more difficult to insert.

4. Check that the string is secure by pulling on it. Relax and gently push the tampon as far up and back into the vagina as possible.

5. When you want to take out the tampon, pull the string lightly. If it is difficult to get it out, it may be because it has not absorbed the maximum, then it may be an idea to use one with less absorbency next time. If you can't find the string, squat down and push as if you were going to the toilet. Then you can grab the tampon with two fingers. If you are unable to remove the tampon yourself, contact a gynecologist.

Changing tampons at school, at work, or in town?

Many may think that it seems complicated to use cloth tampons when you are at school, out for coffee, at work, etc. But it certainly doesn't have to be more complicated than using any other menstrual protection. With our Mini Wet Bags, a small, pretty storage bag in laminated polyester fabric, you discreetly and conveniently store your used tampons. Lay down the tampons unfolded as they are or rolled and then tuck them into the small storage bag. It doesn't have to be more complicated than that. No mess, no fuss!

Washing instructions for cloth tampons

Used tampons can be handled in different ways before washing. Here are some examples of how to do it. Find what works for you and feels most comfortable.

1. You can rinse the used tampon in cold water immediately after use and let it dry until it's time to machine wash.

2. Or store them in, for example, Imse's wet bag (moisture-proof storage bag) until it is time to wash.

3. It is also fine to put them in cold water with a little salt for a couple of days before washing but rinse the tampons first.

If you want to remove any stains, they can be treated with, for example, bile soap or lemon soap. Twist out and insert the tampons into the machine.

It is fine to wash the tampons together with another laundry. It is also not necessary to soak the tampons before washing, but it also works to insert them as they are. A tip is to use a laundry bag for the tampons so it is easier to sort.

Then wash the tampons in the washing machine at 60-90° with your usual detergent. Do not use fabric softener, it destroys the absorbency and is not good for the genital environment. You can instead add a little vinegar to the rinse water.

After washing: Let the tampons air dry - then they will last the longest - or use a tumble dryer or drying cabinet at a low temperature. If you want to be extra sure that the tampon is clean, it is fine to boil it in water for a minute.

How to switch to reusable sanitary napkins?

Do you still think it feels hard to wash blood? For those who haven't tried, cloth pads or cloth tampons can feel even more uncomfortable than it already are when you're menstruating. But many who switch to reusable sanitary products find that they begin to see their menstrual cycle as a much more natural part of it than they did before.

Imse answers to frequently asked questions

Cloth tampons and spiral?

Just as with disposable tampons, there should be no obstacles to using cloth tampons if you have an IUD.

What is the lifespan of cloth tampons?

We have a 10-year guarantee on our reusable menstrual covers. How long do tampons last before they expire? It depends entirely on how much they are used, how they are washed and cared for, and general wear and tear. Here too, it is a personal preference as to how long you want to use the cloth tampons before you feel like replacing them with new ones.

Does a tampon stop menstrual bleeding?

A tampon sucks up/absorbs the menstrual blood.

Can you use a tampon if you are a virgin?

Yes, no problem.

Can the tampon disappear into the body?

No, it can't.

How do you know it fits correctly?

You simply have to feel for it. If it feels good and the tampon doesn't leak, it probably fits correctly. There is no conclusion as to what is right, as it varies from the vagina to the vagina. Vaginas, like people, are different lengths, and the cervix - where the period comes from - sits at different heights. Try and feel it!

Materials with care for the body and the environment

The cloth tampon consists of 2 layers of 100% organic cotton (except for the string which is made of cotton/polyester) and is produced in Turkey.