The most frequently asked question in my Facebook Group is undoubtedly “where can I find reusable period pads or pants for my 7 (yes 7), 8, 9, 10, 11 or even 12 year old daughter?”.

No surprises here actually

As a question in itself it doesn’t surprise me, given that many, many moons ago now I started my periods early myself, in primary school.

At the time I was still so innocent that it didn’t really affect me at all, and in the end it meant that by the time I moved to secondary school I actually never even had that worry during my teenage years “when is my period going to start?” I had already passed that milestone way before my peers and had a level of maturity for it that most of them never understood.

But the most uncomfortable part was the disposable pads, which in those days were fat and bulky and this is probably my strongest memory of that time. How many of us were in that position and left dreading our period every month because of those horrible pads?

I’m so thankful my daughter hopefully won’t have that feeling.

There is help out there!

This is why it’s so heartening to read that there are mums out there in the UK today who are actively researching reusable options for their daughters. Because these mothers put their daughter’s comfort first. It lights me up to have you all join in the group chat and share your experiences.

Supporting each other is what it’s all about. Please do keep sharing because there are many more mums in this position than we think!

Some expert recommendations

Through setting up this blog and small business, I’ve had the pleasure of getting to know several specialists who can offer support in this area if you need it:

Lindsay Dalton is a Feminine Embodiment & Menstrual Cycle Coach who offers a self-paced online mini-course called Preparing your daughter for her first period. I have been honoured to be able to discuss how reusables can be the best start for girls as they enter menarche (first period) and the conversation is included as part of this unique course.
Girls Rising Movement provide Mother-Daughter retreat days for girls age 9-14 and their mum, supporting both to navigate puberty with connection, confidence and calm. My First Period Pads Starter Bundle is used for show and tell on the day, ensuring that first memorable touch of a reusable pad is a sensory interactive experience.

But where to start when it comes to reusable sanitary pads for teenagers? or even younger?

Reusable period pads for a first time user

My First Period Pads Starter Bundle was created to meet this very special need exactly in mind. Each of the pads has been chosen, because I know that out of all the pads that I stock, they are all the most suitable for a first time user:

Hippynut pantyliner - this is a super absorbent pantyliner that, in my opinion, can double up almost as a day pad and therefore is an excellent value for money pad which covers all light to medium flows. This is the pad I always keep on me or in my handbag in case of emergencies because I know it will work as well as a day pad until I get home, as well as being primarily a pantyliner.
La Petite Ourse 2 pack day pads - these pads are the perfect pad for those who are trying out reusables for the first time. They are slim, easy to care for, and the soft fleece that covers the whole of the pad makes them a super comfortable option. This two pack alone is one of my best sellers for a reason.
Little Fern maxi paua pad - you’ll be hard pressed to find a more comfortable night pad out there. The top layer is made from a soft velour which absorbs quickly and keeps dry, as well as providing cushioned comfort that hugs your body. It is my own personal favourite pad for wearing overnight when you just need to feel a bit of extra softness and protection that lasts all night long.

This selection provides enough for a 24 hour trial of reusable pads, and comes with a perfect sized Hippynut storage bag included.

The bundle is also suitable if you are looking for pads for yourself, or is an ideal gift for someone else. A small sustainably printed advice card on how to care for your pads completes the package. Just be sure to pre-wash pads before first time use to activate the absorbency and you’re good to go for 24 hours of life-changing and blissful comfort!

First period pads starter bundle

£24.50

Life changing

If you’re still a bit on the fence, I’m here for you. And if you would like to see some testimonials of women who I have introduced pads to for the first time, read my quick guide.