Make it organic
When did you first discover hannahpad
and what did you find appealing about
the product?
My wife, Jenny, first discovered
hannahpad back in 2014 when she
decided to make a switch to cloth pads.
She realised how many toxic chemicals
she was encountering in her daily routine
that could be contributing to the health
struggles she was experiencing.
hannahpad is made from certified
organic cotton that does not contain
chemicals such as bleach, dioxin,
fragrances and formaldehyde. It’s also
washable and reusable for two to three
years – meaning there’s less menstrual
waste in landfills, plus it is a cost-effective
solution that will save money in the
long run.What’s unique about the product?
hannahpad has six sizes to enable the
management of periods, postpartum
bleeding and light bladder leakage. The
sizes and absorbency provide the perfect
coverage and protection for both day and
nighttime use.
It also has an external patterned layer
that comes in various colours and floral
patterns. More importantly, it’s also about
allowing people to think positively about a
very natural part of their body.What are the benefits of washable
organic cloth pads?
The initial reactions people might have
about cloth pads is that it is backwards
or unhygienic. Using cloth pads is like
washing clothes and underwear. Plus,
they’re small and can fit in any small
pouch, handbag or backpack.
Besides the surprising ease of use,
hannahpad’s certified organic cotton
is extremely soft and comfortable. The
multi-layered design allows for better
breathability and there is also a coating
on the inside of the external patterned
layer making the pad leakproof.How does hannahpad benefit the
environment and the earth?
We’re aware of the environmental impact
conventional single-use pads can have on
the planet, which is why we steer away
from any unnecessary packaging. There
are no plastic or adhesive bits and we
endeavour to use recyclable paper options
for all retail and online store packaging.
Because our pads are washable, our
customers aren't tossing out four to
five pads a day – contributing to about
45,000 tonnes of menstrual waste into
landfills across the world each year. Also,
hannahpad is compostable, making it an
earth-friendly product.Why do you believe it’s important
to empower everyone to talk openly
about menstruation?
We need to reconnect with the body
and how it changes with age. Often, we
lose confidence when we feel we are
not taking care of ourselves physically,
mentally and emotionally. For the
longest time, stigma and shame have
been associated with menstruation
across different countries and cultures
when it is simply part of human nature
and completely normal. By sharing
experiences between family and friends,
we can build a support network and
encourage everyone to openly discuss
periods and other health-related topics.What’s your ultimate aim?
Our aim is clear in our simple slogan:
‘Healthy you, happy planet’. Firstly, we
want to provide the healthiest and safest
washable solution that is not detrimental
to anyone’s health. Secondly, we want to
preserve the wonders of the environment
for generations to come by providing
a zero-waste menstrual product.
Everyone’s combined efforts will create a
happier planet.Natural Health caught up with Marcus Steve, director of hannahpad in Australia and New
Zealand, to chat about the importance of organic sanitary items and eco-friendly living.106 | AUSTRALIAN NATURAL HEALTH naturalhealthmag.com.auLIVING WELL