Sanitary pads are essential hygiene products during menstruation. If you have recently started using them, you may not know what to do when you have to throw them away. Thankfully, the procedure is usually very simple - just pack the tampon and throw it in a waste bin. You can also use a special bag to prevent the spread of germs and bad smells.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Throw the tampon in the bathroom trash can
Step 1. Remove the used tampon from the panties and roll it up
When you need to change your tampon, carefully peel it off the fabric of your briefs and roll it tightly, from one end to the other. The blood-stained part must face inward, the sticky part outward.
A rolled-up sanitary napkin is easier to pack and takes up less space in the trash can
Step 2. Wrap the tampon in the paper
Packing the tampon before throwing it away is the most hygienic choice, as well as being a good way to lessen the odor. You can use toilet paper, a piece of newspaper, or a scrap of paper.
The best thing is to take advantage of the clean sanitary napkin wrapper; if it also has an adhesive tab, even better: you can fix the package without running the risk of it opening
Step 3. Throw the used sanitary napkin into the trash can
Once packed, throw it away in the waste bin in the bathroom. If possible, use a bin with a lid so that you can smell even less.
- Never unload sanitary pads or their wrappers in the toilet: you risk clogging it.
- It is preferable that there is a garbage bag inside the bin, as this will make it easier to collect the sanitary towels along with the rest of the waste when taking out the garbage.
- In some public toilets there is a bin in each cubicle, which allows for easy and discreet disposing of sanitary pads.
Step 4. Wash your hands when done
Once you have discarded the tampon and finished what you have to do in the bathroom, wash your hands well with warm water and soap to remove any germs or traces of menstrual blood.
It is important to wash your hands even before changing the tampon, to avoid accidentally introducing germs into the genital area
Step 5. Take out the trash with the used tampon in it as soon as possible
If you leave dirty sanitary pads in the garbage for too long, they can start to smell bad or even attract insects. If you have already thrown away more than one sanitary napkin, empty the bin and throw the garbage in the external bin.
Close the trash bag to contain the odor and prevent it from attracting insects or other animals
Method 2 of 2: Use a Hygienic Bag
Step 1. Purchase sanitary bags specially designed for sanitary napkins
Look for them online or at a home and personal care store - you may find them in the aisle where sanitary napkins, panty liners, and other feminine hygiene products are displayed.
- Alternatively, you can use the sachets for soiled diapers.
- Many of these products are biodegradable and therefore much greener than normal plastic bags.
- Some public restrooms provide dispensers with this type of bag.
Step 2. Roll up the used tampon after removing it from the underwear
When it's time to change your tampon, pull it off your panties and roll it up tightly so it fits easily into the bag.
It may also be sufficient to fold it in half rather than roll it up completely; depends on the size of the sachet and the absorbent
Step 3. Put the sanitary napkin into the bag and close it
The sachets of some brands have special laces to be able to tie them, while others have an adhesive tab.
Check the instructions on the package if you are unsure how to close the bag
Step 4. Throw the closed bag in the trash
It is best to use a basket with a lid if possible. The smell can spread even if the tampon is locked inside the sachet, particularly if you leave it in the garbage for too long, so take out the trash as soon as possible if you have thrown the tampon in the house.
Do not drain the bag into the toilet. Always use the trash can or other waste disposal container
Step 5. Wash your hands when done
Once the operation is finished, wash your hands with warm soapy water; in the absence of soap, use a hand sanitizer.
Remember to wash them even before changing your tampon
Advice
- There are also biodegradable absorbents: they are made with organic materials, such as banana fiber, which make them environmentally friendly and compostable.
- If you have to go camping, hike, or other outdoor activity where you can't immediately throw away used sanitary pads, store them in a resealable plastic bag until you can throw them in the trash.
