Steps to disposal of sanitary napkins:

It can be difficult to dispose of sanitary napkins correctly, especially in public places. Due to the absence of bins, poor sanitation facilities, and lack of proper waste disposal mechanisms, sanitary napkins are either flushed down or left out in the open. However improper disposal of sanitary napkins is harmful to the environment. Stagnant blood on the sanitary product is a breeding ground for infections. Furthermore, any sanitary product disposed of in the wrong way can contribute to air, water, or soil pollution. In this article, we have discussed how to discard sanitary napkins the right way.

Remember – never flush a menstrual product down the toilet. Always bin it.

How to Dispose of Used Pads:

1. Remove the Pad and Roll It:

As you are ready to change your pad, carefully detach it from your underwear and roll it up nicely from one end to another. Make sure that the soiled part is on the inside to keep the odor and germs away.

2. Wrap It Up:

Carefully wrap the rolled pad in the cover it comes packaged in. For this very reason, sanitary pads have this little sticky tape so the wrap doesn’t open. You can also wrap it in a piece of newspaper but it is usually a good idea to carry the pad cover along with you.

3. Throw It in a Black Bin Marked “Bio-Hazard Waste”:

Once the pad is carefully wrapped, look for a black bin that has the bio-hazard sign. Ensure that your bin has a lid and a disposable lining. In the absence of one, use the nearest dustbin for dry waste. Try to get a black bin installed in your school, college, or workplace.

4. Wash Your Hands:

As soon as you throw away the sanitary pad, wash your hands nicely with soap and water. This will help prevent the spread of germs. It’s also important to wash your hands before changing the pad to avoid infection in your genital area. 

How to Dispose of Tampons

1. Remove the Tampon Carefully:

Always sit down while removing the tampon. As the legs get stretched, it gets easier to access and remove the tampon. Sitting on the toilet will also ensure that no blood drips on your underwear or on the floor. 

2. Wrap it:

Either take a piece of tissue paper or a newspaper to wrap it around the tampon. This will prevent blood from dripping everywhere and also protect your hands from the blood. 

3. Toss It in the Bin:

As soon as you wrap it up, throw it in the biohazard bin. Be careful to not let it drip on the toilet seat. If the tampon gets flushed accidentally, the tampon might clog the drain and cause a plumbing problem! You can invest in a black bin for your workplace or office building so that all sanitary waste can be disposed of safely. 

4. Wash your hands

Once you have disposed of the tampon, wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. Make sure to wash your hands before removing the tampon as well, to keep away unwanted germs. 

By following these steps, you can ensure responsible disposal of sanitary napkins and pads, contributing to a cleaner and healthier environment.

For more such informative articles, visit our sustainability blog page.