Best sanitation towels for first period
The age of puberty is an interesting time for most girls. It is when the hormones start pumping, and certain body changes become noticeable. However, the greatest and often scariest change is the onset of menstruation. Menstruation is the monthly flow of blood through the uterus and out of the lady parts. It signals fertility and the ability to become pregnant.
Starting your period can be a confusing and overwhelming time. It is important to have the right products to make the experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. One essential item to have during your first period is a sanitary towel, also known as a pad or sanitation towel. These absorbent products catch menstrual blood and prevent leaks, providing you with the confidence and protection you need as you fully grasp the changes.
Most girls and their parents often struggle with choosing the right sanitary or sanitation towel for first period. This is understandable, especially as there are so many different products on the market. In this blog post, we will explore some of the top sanitary and sanitation towels for first-time users, so you can find the right product to suit your needs and preferences.
Before that, a little clarity on what sanitary pads and sanitation towels are.
Sanitary Pads
Sanitary pads are traditional disposable pads used to absorb menstrual blood during menstruation. They are available in a wide variety of options depending on the brand, absorbency, length, and whether they are scented.
Sanitary pads are one-time-use sanitary products and often contain chemicals to trap the period blood within the permeable layer. Learn more about sanitary pads and other sanitary products here.
Sanitation Towels
Sanitation towels are reusable products that are often made from cotton and have no added chemicals. They can be used to collect menstruation blood, washed, stored, and reused.
Sanitation towels are an eco-friendly and cost-effective option for period management. They are also perfect for use on sensitive skin, especially for girls and women who suffer from menstrual pad allergies.
Sanitation towels are available in different sizes and can be used for other hygiene needs, including wiping surfaces in the kitchen and bathroom.

Sanitary pads vs. Sanitation towels (Traditional disposable pads vs. Reusable pads)
Material and use
Sanitary pads or traditional disposable pads are made from synthetic materials such as plastic and are designed for one-time use. In contrast, sanitation towels or reusable pads are made from natural materials like cotton or bamboo and can be washed and used for multiple menstrual cycles.
Eco-friendliness
One of the biggest advantages of sanitation towels is that they are much more environmentally friendly than sanitary pads. The average woman will use around 11,000 disposable pads or tampons in her lifetime, which generates a significant amount of waste. In contrast, reusable pads can be used for years, reducing the amount of waste generated.
Comfort
In addition to being eco-friendly, reusable pads are also often more comfortable and less irritating than disposable pads. This is because they are typically made from natural materials that are softer and gentler on the skin. This advantage can be beneficial for many women who experience irritation, discomfort, and pad rash during their menstrual cycle.
Affordability
Another advantage of reusable pads is that they are often more affordable in the long run. While the upfront cost may be higher than disposable pads, they can be used for multiple menstrual cycles, making them a more cost-effective option in the long run.
However, there are also some drawbacks to using sanitation towels or reusable pads. For example, they require more effort to clean and care for, as they must be washed after each use. They also may not be as convenient as disposable pads, as they need to be carried with you and changed more frequently.
Overall, the choice between disposable and reusable pads ultimately comes down to personal preference. Both options have their advantages and disadvantages, and the best option for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.
Benefits | Sanitary Pads (Disposable pads) | Sanitation Towels (Reusable pads) |
Cost | Affordable | Cost-effective |
Environmentally friendly | No | Yes |
Comfort | It can cause irritation, rash, etc. | Improved comfort |
Maintenance | None required. One time use | *Proper washing and storage required |
Chemical content | Contain harmful chemicals | None |
Variety | Wide variety | Limited options |
Mobility | Easy to carry in numbers | Bulky in numbers |
Accessibility | Available everywhere | Limited availability |
Adhesive backing | Yes. | No |
Absorption | More Absorbent | Less Absorbent |
*learn how to wash your sanitation towel here.
Best reusable sanitary pads for first period
GladRags Xtra Pad
This pad is made of soft, absorbent fabric and has a waterproof backing to prevent leaks. It also comes with snap closures to help keep the pad securely in place. The GladRags Xtra Pad can be machine-washed and dried, making it easy to clean and maintain.
LunaPad Classic Cloth Pad
This reusable pad is made of organic cotton and has a waterproof backing to prevent leaks. It also has a contoured shape and wing snaps to help keep it securely in place. The LunaPad Classic Cloth Pad can be machine-washed and dried, making it easy to clean and maintain.
Teamoy Reusable Washable Cloth Pad
This product offers users a chance to enjoy premium quality reusable pads designed with button snaps on the wings to keep them in place. The product is available in 3 sizes for different menstrual volumes, has 4 layers, and is made from environmentally friendly materials like charcoal bamboo fiber.
Best sanitation towels for first period
Avalon Towels
This highly absorbent towel is available in four color options of white, blue, light grey, and orange. Made from premium quality 100% cotton material, its value pack contains 150 cotton sanitation towels that are easy to wash and lint-free.
Groko Textiles Universal Cleaning Towels
Made from terry cotton and perfect for all uses, whether for your period needs or kitchen cleaning needs. Each cotton cloth is reusable, easy to wash, and can be machine-washed. The value pack offers 120 pieces of sanitation towels, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly option.
Simpli-Magic 79118 Commercial Grade Soft Plush Cotton Terry Towels
Made from 100% looped-terry cotton, this soft and plush sanitation towel comes in a pack of 60 and is perfect for menstruation and other cleaning needs. It is low maintenance, especially as it is machine washable and can be tumble dried on low.
So there you have it. We hope this blog post has helped narrow down the hundreds of sanitation towel options on the market while enlightening you further.