Rethinking Period Products with Hemp and Organic Cotton

Most reusable menstrual products still hide a high plastic content, even when marketed as “sustainable”. Together with the Danish Technological Institute, Femi.Eko® is developing and documenting a new generation of polyester-free menstrual underwear based on hemp and organic cotton that combines leak-proof performance, comfort and a lower environmental footprint.

The problem – intimate products full of plastic and chemicals

Today’s market for both disposable and reusable menstrual products is dominated by polyester and other plastic fibres in the absorbent core and protective layers. This leads to microplastic release during washing, challenging end-of-life handling and continued dependence on fossil-based materials. At the same time, some products rely on silver, PFAS or other biocides to achieve an antibacterial effect, increasing the chemical burden in both product and environment. Women looking for more natural, well-designed alternatives have very few documented options that truly work in everyday life while reducing plastic and chemical impact.

The solution – plant-based absorbent layers without polyester

The project develops next-generation functional menstrual underwear where the absorbent layers are made from hemp and organic cotton, supported by a breathable, bio-based barrier without PFAS. Polyester is removed from both the absorbent core and the protective layer, significantly reducing plastic fibre emissions to wastewater. Hemp provides fast absorption, odour control and a natural antibacterial contribution without the need for silver or added biocides. In collaboration with the Danish Technological Institute, prototypes are developed and tested for leak-proof performance, durability, comfort and washability, and a user pilot documents real-life function and perceived confidence.

Expected results/vision – towards a new standard in sustainable intimate care

In the short term, the goal is a strong proof-of-concept: a fully polyester-free menstrual brief that matches or outperforms existing products on performance, comfort and hygiene, and can be scaled across Femi.Eko®’s current network of 2,000+ stores in 12+ countries. This will clearly differentiate the brand on the retail shelf and strengthen credibility with both consumers and buyers. In the longer term, the vision is to apply the same material and design approach to other categories (e.g. postpartum, incontinence, daily intimate care) and help shift the entire market away from polyester and unnecessary chemicals – towards plant-based, documented solutions that benefit women, health and the climate.