Organic Tampon Showdown: Quality, Cost & Buzz Explained

Welcome to the conversation about what we put in our bodies. In recent years, there's been a significant shift in how we think about personal care, and period products are no exception. More and more people are moving from conventional tampons to organic alternatives, driven by a growing awareness of ingredients and their potential impact.

For a long time, the ingredients in menstrual products weren't required to be disclosed, which meant many of us were in the dark about what we were using [2]. This article is here to shed some light. We'll provide a clear, honest comparison of leading organic tampon brands, looking at quality, cost, and reviews to help you find the best option for your body and your life.

Why Go Organic with Your Tampons?

Making the switch to organic tampons is about more than just a label. It's a conscious choice for your health and the environment. Let’s break down what that really means.

The Health Benefits of Cleaner Ingredients

So, what makes a tampon "organic"? It means the tampon itself is made with 100% organic cotton, which is grown without the use of harsh synthetic pesticides. By choosing organic, you're avoiding potentially harmful chemicals often found in conventional products, such as:

• Chlorine bleach

• Fragrances

• Dyes

• Synthetic fibers like rayon

Many OB-GYNs recommend organic tampons, especially for those with allergies or sensitive skin, as they are often hypoallergenic and can reduce the risk of irritation [1]. Here at LOLA, our period products are gynecologist-approved and intentionally made without synthetic fibers, chemical additives, fragrances, or dyes, because we believe you deserve to know exactly what you’re putting in your body.

Reducing Your Environmental Footprint

The environmental impact of traditional period products is significant. Many contain plastic applicators and are made from non-biodegradable materials that contribute to landfill waste.

Organic cotton, on the other hand, is a natural and biodegradable fiber, making it a more sustainable choice. Many organic brands also prioritize eco-friendly packaging and production methods. For instance, some companies offer biodegradable products and are committed to sustainable practices [3].

The Contenders: Top Organic Tampon Brands Ranked

With more options on the shelves than ever, choosing can feel overwhelming. We've narrowed it down to the top contenders to see how they stack up based on quality, cost, and social buzz.

Best Overall & Best Reviewed: LOLA

Quality & Ingredients: We are incredibly proud of what’s in our tampons (and what’s not). LOLA tampons are made with 100% GOTS certified organic cotton—and nothing else. This certification ensures the cotton is grown safely and ethically from seed to shelf. Our tampons are also OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 certified, hypoallergenic, and FDA 510(K) cleared. You'll find no synthetic fibers, dyes, or fragrances here.

Product Range & Features: Your period is personal, and your products should be too. We offer customizable boxes with a range of absorbencies and applicator types. Choose from our BPA-free, compact plastic applicators for comfortable insertion or our eco-friendly non-applicator tampons.

Cost: A box of LOLA tampons starts at $9, and you can get free shipping on orders over $35. For ultimate convenience and savings, our Subscribe to Save program delivers your customized assortment right to your door, so you never have to make a last-minute run to the store.

Buzz & Reviews: We’re not the only ones who think our tampons are great. They've been praised for being comfortable and reliable [6]. As one customer says on our site, "I’m obsessed with these 100% cotton tampons. I truly can feel a difference not using all of the harsh chemicals in other brands. No leakage, no irritation, no complaints!"

Best for Sensitive Skin: Organyc

Quality & Ingredients: Organyc tampons are made from 100% certified organic cotton and are clinically proven to be effective for sensitive skin, making them a trusted choice for those prone to irritation [3].

Buzz & Reviews: This brand has earned praise from experts, with one panel of OB-GYNs naming it "best overall" for its gentle, skin-friendly composition [1].

Top-Rated Absorbency: Tom Organic

Quality & Ingredients: Tom Organic tampons are also made from 100% organic cotton and have gained a reputation for solid performance.

Cost: With a price point around $0.34 per tampon, they offer a competitive option in the organic market [7].

Buzz & Reviews: The brand received a CHOICE Expert Rating of 77%, with particularly high scores for absorbency (77%) and cord strength (76%), indicating reliable protection [7].

Best Eco-Friendly Applicator: Natracare

Quality & Ingredients: Natracare offers tampons made from 100% certified organic cotton that are non-chlorine bleached.

Buzz & Reviews: The standout feature for this brand is its biodegradable cardboard applicator, designed for easy insertion while prioritizing environmental sustainability. However, it's worth noting that while many users praise the product's comfort and eco-friendly design, some reviews mention issues with leakage [5].

How to Choose the Right Organic Tampon for You

With a better understanding of the top brands, let's simplify the decision-making process.

Finding Your Flow: Absorbency Levels

Organic tampons follow the same standard absorbency levels you're used to: Light, Regular, Super, and Super+. To reduce the risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS), the FDA advises using the lowest absorbency necessary to manage your flow and changing your tampon every 4 to 8 hours. Listening to your body and adjusting as your flow changes throughout your cycle is key. You can find more helpful information on our Organic Period Products page.

Considering Cost and Convenience

How you buy your tampons also plays a role. Brands like Natracare are available at various retailers, including online shops like Well.ca [4]. However, direct-to-consumer subscription models offer a unique blend of convenience and savings. A service like LOLA's Subscribe to Save program ensures you get exactly what you need, delivered on your schedule, so you're always prepared.

The Verdict: And the Best Organic Tampon Is…

After reviewing quality, cost, and buzz, each brand offers unique strengths. Organyc is a great choice for sensitive skin, Tom Organic stands out for its absorbency, and Natracare offers an eco-conscious applicator.

However, based on the combined criteria of superior ingredient quality, customizable product offerings, cost-effectiveness, and overwhelmingly positive reviews, LOLA emerges as the best overall choice.

We are committed to providing you with 100% organic cotton tampons that you can trust. With our customizable subscription service, award-winning performance, and transparent approach, we make it easy to switch to a cleaner period routine.

Ready to make a healthy choice for your body? Explore LOLA's full range of clean feminine care products today.