Buying Tampons: A Practical Guide to Choosing the Right Option

The period care aisle can be overwhelming. Dozens of boxes, different colours, and a range of claims. How do you know which tampons are right for you? It's a personal choice that depends on your body, your flow, and your preferences.

As a Joybuy Product Recommendation Officer, my job is to help you make an informed decision. In this article, we'll give you practical tips and highlight a few popular choices, so you can buy the right tampons with more confidence.

What to look for when choosing tampons?

Before we look at the products, here are a few points to help you with your choice.

1. Absorbency Level: Decoding the Droplets

On every package, you'll see a symbol with droplets. This is a standardised system that indicates how much fluid a tampon can absorb, making it easy to compare brands.

• 1-2 droplets (Mini/Light): For the lightest days of your period.
• 3 droplets (Regular): Suitable for a medium flow.
• 4 droplets (Super): For heavier days.
• 5-6 droplets (Super Plus): Offer a solution for a very heavy flow.

Always choose the lowest possible absorbency level for your flow and change your tampon regularly (every 4 to 8 hours).

2. Material Choice: From Organic Cotton to Plastic-Free

The material composition is becoming an important factor for more and more women. The choice is wider than ever.

• Cotton tampons: Many women prefer the feel of 100% cotton.
• Organic tampons: These are made from cotton grown without chemical pesticides. Brands like Yoni tampons focus on this. They are often free of perfume and chlorine, which can be a consideration for women with sensitive skin.
• Plastic-free tampons: If you're looking for sustainable period products, there are options where both the tampon and the packaging are (partially) biodegradable.

3. Comfort and Ease of Use

Some tampons have extra features that make them more comfortable to use. Think of a silky-smooth layer for easier insertion or specially shaped grooves that are said to better guide fluid to the core. O.b. tampons, for example, are known for their compact, applicator-free design.

Our Product Recommendations

Based on the criteria above, we've made a selection of products that are popular with our customers, each with its own unique features.

Yoni Organic Cotton Tampons (Medium)

Why it stands out: Yoni is committed to transparency and natural materials. The tampons are made entirely of certified organic cotton, including the string. The brand aims to break the taboo surrounding menstruation with clear communication and a clean design.

Pros:

• Material: 100% certified organic cotton.
• Free from: Perfume, plastic, chlorine, and other chemicals.
• Sustainability: The tampon is biodegradable. The wrappers are made of bioplastic.

Who is this product for? This is a great choice for women who consciously opt for organic tampons and plastic-free tampons. It's also a suitable option for those with sensitive skin or who simply want to know what's in their products.

o.b. ProComfort Tampon Super

Why it stands out: O.b. ProComfort combines the brand's reliability with a focus on comfort. According to the manufacturer, the SilkTouch surface ensures the tampon is smooth to insert and remove. The core is 100% plant-based.

Pros:

• Comfort: Designed for easy insertion.
• Protection: Unique grooves that guide fluid to the core.
• Absorbency: The super tampons variant is suitable for heavier days.

Who is this product for? For women looking for a reliable tampon for the heavier days of their period who also highly value comfort and ease of use.

o.b. Original Tampons Super Plus

Why it stands out: This product is specifically developed for the heaviest days. The o.b. Original Super Plus offers the highest absorbency level in the o.b. range, intended for moments when you need maximum protection.

Pros:

• Maximum absorbency: Specially designed for tampons for a heavy flow.
• Reliability: The curved grooves are designed to efficiently absorb fluid.
• Purpose-driven: A clear solution for a specific need.

Who is this product for? Ideal for women with a very heavy period or for use in the postpartum period (in that case, always consult a doctor or midwife first).

Haven't found what you're looking for?

Every body is different, and the perfect match can vary for everyone. The products above are just a sample of the possibilities. Are you curious about other absorbency levels, brands, or types of products like menstrual cups or reusable pads?

View our full range of Period Products & Intimate Care ?

Frequently Asked Questions

How often should I change a tampon?

It is recommended to change a tampon every 4 to 8 hours. Never leave a tampon in for more than 8 hours due to an increased risk of the rare but serious condition TSS (Toxic Shock Syndrome). Always read the leaflet in the package for full instructions.

What is the difference between organic and 'regular' tampons?

The main difference is the material. Organic tampons are made from cotton grown without the use of synthetic pesticides. They are also often unbleached with chlorine and free from perfume. Regular tampons may contain a mix of materials, such as cotton and rayon, and are often bleached to make them white.

Can I sleep with a tampon in?

Yes, you can sleep with a tampon in, as long as you adhere to the maximum wear time of 8 hours. Insert a new tampon just before you go to bed and replace it immediately when you wake up. If you plan to sleep for more than 8 hours, it is safer to opt for an alternative like a sanitary pad.