The Welpr Rating is determined by a scoring formula. The formula takes into account the products safety, user satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing. Click here to learn more.
Best Non-Toxic Tampons in 2024
Updated:
Nov 18, 2024
Written by Camille May
Cofounder & Product Curator
+ 1 more
Medically reviewed by Olushola Awoyemi
PhD Environmental Toxicology
As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Our use of affiliate links does not influence how we rate products. Learn more about our affiliate policy here.
What you should know when choosing non-toxic tampons on Welpr:
- Only the cleanest products make it onto Welpr.
- We use a score called the Welpr Rating to rank each product.
- The Welpr Rating is based on math, not opinion, ensuring it's free from human bias.
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Find Non-Toxic Tampons
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Cotton Tampons - Organyc
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$7.92
Product Details
- Made with 100% certified organic cotton inside and out
- Designed for normal flow with no-applicator feature
- Breathable and hypoallergenic, ensuring compatibility with skin pH
- Free from chlorine, latex, parabens, perfumes, SAP, plastics, and other man-made materials
- Provides unsurpassed absorbency and leak protection while being gentle on sensitive skin
- Proudly displays the 100% Cotton seal
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Absorbent
- Natural
Cons Mentioned
- Dry
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Cotton Fibres, Cotton Thread
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic All Cotton Tampons with Applicator - Natracare
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$10.86
Product Details
- Includes applicator for ease of use.
- Contains 16 regular tampons per package.
- Made with organic cotton.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Absorbent
- Organic
Cons Mentioned
- Unreliable
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Certified Organic 100% Cotton
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Tampons - Oi
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$14.99
Product Details
- Made from 100% certified organic cotton, both top layer and absorbent core.
- Free from perfumes, dyes, chlorine bleach, irritants, and allergens to cater to sensitive skin.
- Incorporates a cardboard applicator with a rounded tip and secure finger grip for easy insertion.
- Components including the tampon, applicator, wrapper, and box are fully biodegradable.
- Certified by GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and BioGro (New Zealand organic certification) ensuring no use of toxic chemicals, harmful pesticides, or synthetic fertilisers in cotton production.
- 100% organic cotton is ethically sourced, with batch tracing to guarantee ethical production practices.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Biodegradable
- Absorbent
Cons Mentioned
- Uncomfortable
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organically Grown Cotton (Tampon Core, And String), Water-Repellent Wax (String), Plant-Based Bio-Plastic Applicator
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Pure Organic Cotton Tampons with BPA-Free Applicator - MyBoxShop
Certifications
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$13.99
Product Details
- Made of 100% organic cotton, free from dyes, pesticides, microplastics, and bleach to minimize irritation and allergens.
- The pads feature an organic cotton top sheet that minimizes irritation while maximizing protection, suitable for sensitive skin.
- The pads are thin and breathable, designed for absorption and comfort.
- The panty liners have an organic cotton top sheet to protect skin and keep dry, also designed thin and breathable for light days or in conjunction with other products.
- Features a BPA-free tampon applicator that is non-toxic and easy to use.
- Incorporates an eight-channel absorption system in the tampons to expand width-wise, ensuring maximum protection and security during movement.
- The menstrual cup is made from 100% medical-grade silicone, ensuring no chemical exposure, and is reusable offering a zero-waste option.
- The cup is designed to be ultra-soft to fit the body comfortably and manage any type of flow.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Absorbent
- Organic
Cons Mentioned
- Uncomfortable
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Cotton
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Free & Clear Super Tampons with Applicator - Seventh Generation
Certifications
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$15.94
Product Details
- Processed 100% Totally Chlorine Free using hydrogen peroxide.
- Contains 0% fragrances, deodorants, and chlorine processing.
- Super absorbency range between 9-12g.
- Features a comfortable plant-based plastic applicator.
- Made with Free & Clear organic cotton.
- Designed to provide leak-free protection.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Organic
- Happy
Cons Mentioned
- Rough
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Certified Organic Cotton (Absorbent Material, Cover, String), Water Repellent Wax (String), Cotton (Sewing Thread), Plant-Based Ldpe Plastic (Comfortable Plastic Applicator)
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Cotton Tampons - The Honey Pot Company
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$9.79
Product Details
- Organic
- Fragrance free
- Made with organically grown cotton
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Natural
- Effective
Cons Mentioned
- Applicator
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: 100% Organic Cotton [Absorbent Material, Cover], Water Repellent Wax [String], Cotton [Sewing Thread], BPA-Free [Plastic Applicator]
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
Organic Applicator Tampon Multipack - Cora
Highlights
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$17.99
Product Details
- Made from 100% certified organic cotton, ensuring a natural product without pesticides, dioxins, rayon, or chlorine.
- Free of fragrance and dyes to reduce potential irritants.
- Features a new plant-based compact applicator, made from at least 92% plant-based plastic, designed for smooth and comfortable insertion.
- Gently expands to provide leak protection from all angles, compatible with light to heavy flow needs.
- FSA/HSA eligible, making it accessible through flexible spending accounts.
- With each purchase, Cora provides period products and educational resources to underserved populations.
- Includes a 100% happiness guarantee, offering customer support if dissatisfaction occurs.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Organic
- Comfortable
- Quiet
Cons Mentioned
- Applicator
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: 100% Certified Organic Cotton
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
100% Certified Organic Cotton Tampons - Lola
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$22.99
Product Details
- Offers a range of absorbencies for leak protection during periods.
- Features a pocket-sized, BPA-free plastic applicator that expands to protect against leaks.
- Approved by gynecologists and hypoallergenic.
- Available in four absorbency levels: Light, Regular, Super, and Super Plus.
- Made with high-quality, clean ingredients without toxins or dyes.
- 100% organic cotton used in the product.
- Fragrance-free formulation.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Safe
- Organic
Cons Mentioned
- Leaking
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: 100% Organic Cotton
Third-party certifications are key indicators of a product's safety, ethics, and environmental impact. Click the icon to verify the certification.
Highlights aren't always verifiable, so you're trusting the brand when they say "lead free", etc. If the highlight icon is "clickable", it means we've verified the highlight.
User satisfaction is calculated using online reviews and a Bayesian average across all personal care and cosmetic products on Welpr.
100% Organic Pure Cotton Regular Tampons - TOP the organic project
User Satisfaction
Est. Price
$21.00
Product Details
- Made with 100% biodegradable organic cotton, free from toxins, chemicals, synthetics, fragrances, and dyes.
- Offers options for both regular and super absorbency to accommodate light to ultra heavy flow types.
- Features a smooth, curved tip for comfortable and easy insertion.
- Designed by women to expand and fit the body, ensuring total comfort and leak-protection.
- Focused on providing access to healthy and eco-friendly period products to every girl and woman globally.
- Includes a plant-based applicator made from sugar cane.
- Products are free from synthetic pesticides, toxins, fragrances, dyes, and hypoallergenic.
- Organic certification by the Institute for Ethical and Environmental and USDA certified organic cotton.
- Dedicated to reducing landfill waste through the use of planet-friendly period products.
- For every purchase, contributions are made to schools, shelters, nonprofits, and organizations aiding women and girls in need.
Pros & Cons
Pros Mentioned
- Comfortable
- Organic
- Absorbent
Cons Mentioned
- Pinches
Ingredients
Ingredients can vary by product variation and may change at any time by the manufacturer. For the most complete and up-to-date list of ingredients, refer to the product packaging.
To analyze individual ingredients, use INCIDecoder.
Ingredients: Organic Cotton
Our Product Rating System
First, Camille (co-creator of Welpr) hand picks cleaner product options from a variety of sources.
Next, we collect information about each product's safety, consumer satisfaction, and eco-ethical standing.
Finally, we run all this information through an algorithm that calculates the Welpr Rating.
Welpr Rating:
5.0/5
Part 1: Product safety
We evaluate safety information from 3rd party organizations (e.g. EWG, Made Safe, etc.). Instead of relying solely on any one of these companies for safety information, we assess all of them.
Part 2: Consumer satisfaction
We scour the web for consumer ratings and reviews to verify products are not only cleaner options, but also effective. Products can either be Above Average, Average, or Below average for their respective category (e.g. cleaning products).
Part 3: Ethics & Environment
When you buy a product, you’re supporting that company with your dollars. We believe it’s important to support ethical companies, so we pool together certifications that verify a company's ethics and environmental impact.
Common Harmful Chemicals in Tampons
Chemical Name
Why it’s harmful
Polyethylene
Ethylene is a colorless gas used in various applications, from welding to manufacturing plastics and accelerating fruit ripening. Human exposure to high concentrations can cause memory disturbances, loss of consciousness, and even death by suffocation, as it affects the respiratory center in the brain. Chronic exposure has been associated with sensory and cardiovascular alterations. Animal studies show that prolonged exposure can cause decreased food intake, changes in blood cells, and hypertension, but no substantial changes in behavior, body weight, or organ structure were observed. It is metabolized into carcinogenic and mutagenic ethylene oxide in some species, but no significant increase in micronucleated polychromatic erythrocytes was found in rodents exposed to ethylene.
Polyethylene Glycol
Ingestion or dermal absorption of the chemical at more than 800-1000 mg/kg/day can lead to central nervous system depression and liver and kidney changes in animals, despite there being no significant developmental toxicity. The chemical acts as an eye irritant; however, it is poorly absorbed through the skin. Unanticipated side effects are unlikely unless there is exposure to mists of heated liquid. Notably, animal feeding studies have shown that the chemical could damage the CNS, liver, kidneys, red blood cells, and the reproductive system.
Chlorine
Chlorine is a greenish yellow gas used in the production of various organic and inorganic chemicals, from manufacturing paper to water purification. Exposure to chlorine gas can occur through oral, inhalation, and eye contact, causing irritation and burns on the eyes and skin, respiratory symptoms, and potentially leading to serious conditions like anoxia and cardiac or respiratory arrest. In vitro studies have suggested possible chromosomal damage from chlorine concentrations in drinking water. In animal studies, exposure to chlorine has been linked to decreased body weight, altered renal function, and inflammatory reaction in respiratory tracts in rats, with equivocal evidence of carcinogenic activity seen in long-term exposure to chlorinated water. Ecotoxicity studies have shown detrimental effects on some phytoplankton species, indicating significant ecological impact.
Phthalate
Phthalates, linked to endocrine disruption, reproductive toxicity, and cancer, are banned in the European Union but remain prevalent in U.S. cosmetics. They are widely used in personal care products, such as nail polish, fragrances, and eyelash glue and other products. A significant loophole allows phthalates to be added to fragrances without disclosure. Health concerns include endocrine disruption, developmental and reproductive toxicity, and potential carcinogenicity.
Sources:
Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: Phthalates, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Phthalates in Cosmetics, Phthalates in cosmetic and personal care products: concentrations and possible dermal exposure, A Survey of Phthalates and Parabens in Personal Care Products from the United States and Its Implications for Human Exposure, Phthalates Factsheet, BPA and Phthalates: Chemicals found in our homes
1,4-Dioxane
1,4-Dioxane is a clear, water-soluble liquid that is primarily used as a solvent in chemical manufacturing and laboratory reagents. Other uses leverage its solvent properties, including cosmetics, detergents, and shampoos. However, manufacturers generally reduce 1,4-Dioxane to low levels in these products due to its potential health risks. Acute exposure can result in symptoms such as vertigo, drowsiness, and irritation of the eyes, nose, throat, and skin. Chronic exposure may lead to liver and kidney damage, and the substance is classified as a probable human carcinogen by the EPA. Notably, severe kidney and liver damage, CNS effects, and even death have been recorded after heavy or prolonged exposure.
Sources:
What Is 1,4-Dioxane in Laundry and Cleaning Products?, Effect of ethoxylation and lauryl alcohol on the self-assembly of sodium laurylsulfate: Significant structural and rheological transformation, Final Risk Evaluation for 1,4-Dioxane, Ongoing and Completed Chemical Risk Evaluations under TSCA, Preliminary Information on Manufacturing, Processing, Distribution, Use, and Disposal, TOXICOLOGICAL REVIEW OF 1,4-DIOXANE, 15th Report on Carcinogens, 1,4-Dioxane, Determination of residual 1,4-dioxane in surfactants and cleaning agents using headspace single-drop microextraction followed by gas chromatography–flame ionization detection, 1,4-Dioxane in Cosmetics: A Manufacturing Byproduct, An integrated assessment of the 1,4-dioxane cancer mode of action and threshold response in rodents, Campaign for Safe Cosmetics: 1,4-DIOXANE, Product Profile: Hand Sanitizer, Occurrence of 1,4-dioxane in cosmetic raw materials and finished cosmetic products, Chemical Profile: 1,4-dioxane
Fluorine
Fluorinated compounds, including Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), are used in cosmetics like foundation, powder, mascara, and anti-aging products. These compounds are known for their stability and are challenging to break down in the environment, with some found in remote regions. PTFE, often used for its smooth finish, can be derived from perfluorooctonoic acid (PFOA), which might leave residual PFOA in the final product. PFOA has been associated with cancer, mammary cancer, reproductive toxicity, endocrine disruption, and environmental concerns. While research on PTFE's direct cancer-causing potential is inconclusive, PFOA, a contaminant in PTFE-containing products, has health implications. PFOA has been detected in adults' body fluids worldwide and has links to mammary gland changes, endocrine disruption, delayed puberty in girls, and reproductive toxicity, including low birth weight. Additionally, it may affect the carcinogenicity of other chemicals when exposed together.
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