+86-19905053351       info@toplonsun.com
Home
BLOGS
You are here: Home » Blogs » What Are Sanitary Towels Made Of?

What Are Sanitary Towels Made Of?

Views: 0     Author: Site Editor     Publish Time: 2026-01-02      Origin: Site

Inquire

facebook sharing button
twitter sharing button
line sharing button
wechat sharing button
linkedin sharing button
pinterest sharing button
whatsapp sharing button
sharethis sharing button

1. Introduction

Sanitary towels are a vital part of daily hygiene, yet many people don't know what they're made of. Have you ever wondered about the materials inside your sanitary towels? Understanding Sanitary Towels Raw Materials can help you make informed choices for both your health and the environment.

In this article, we will explore the raw materials that make up sanitary towels, including common and sustainable options. You'll learn how these materials affect comfort, absorbency, and environmental impact.

 

2. Basic Structure of a Sanitary Towel

Sanitary towels are composed of several distinct layers, each designed for a specific function to ensure comfort, absorbency, and leak prevention. Understanding the raw materials used in these layers is key to making informed choices about menstrual products.

Sanitary towels

2.1 Topsheet: The Comfort and Breathability Layer

The topsheet is the first layer of the sanitary towel, coming into direct contact with the skin. It serves two main functions: providing a comfortable and soft surface while ensuring that menstrual fluid quickly passes through it to the absorbent core.

Common Materials:

● Nonwoven fabric: Most commonly made from polypropylene or polyethylene, this fabric is hydrophobic, which helps in quickly wicking away moisture.

Sustainable Alternatives:

● Organic cotton: This natural fiber is soft, breathable, and ideal for sensitive skin. It's free from harmful pesticides, making it a safer choice for personal hygiene.

● Bamboo fiber: Known for its antibacterial properties and superior absorbency, bamboo fiber is a sustainable alternative that is both eco-friendly and effective at managing moisture.

Function:

The topsheet's function is simple but vital: to keep the surface dry and comfortable by drawing fluid away from the skin while still being soft and gentle. Many eco-conscious consumers now prefer natural fibers like organic cotton or bamboo for their skin-friendly and sustainable benefits.

Tip: When choosing sanitary towels, consider the material of the topsheet to ensure comfort, especially if you have sensitive skin.

2.2 Absorbent Core: The Heart of the Pad

The absorbent core is the core component responsible for soaking up and locking away menstrual fluid. It is the thickest layer of the sanitary towel and plays a crucial role in preventing leaks.

Common Materials:

● Wood pulp: Processed cellulose fiber from softwood trees, it forms a fluffy, absorbent material.

● Superabsorbent polymers (SAP): These materials absorb large amounts of fluid and lock it in, transforming it into a gel to prevent rewetting.

Sustainable Alternatives:

● Bamboo fiber: A more eco-friendly alternative to wood pulp, bamboo provides excellent absorbency and is biodegradable.

● Banana fiber: This alternative offers a natural, renewable source with great absorbent qualities.

Function:

The absorbent core traps menstrual fluid, keeping you dry and comfortable. SAPs are particularly effective at absorbing fluid and reducing bulk, which helps maintain the pad's thin profile without sacrificing performance.

Tip: If you are looking for higher absorbency, consider products that use superabsorbent polymers (SAP) as they are more effective at fluid retention.

2.3 Backsheet: The Leakproof Barrier

The backsheet serves a critical role: it prevents any leakage and ensures the pad stays securely in place. This layer faces the underwear, and it must be both leak-proof and breathable to maintain comfort.

PE backsheet film

Common Materials:

● Polyethylene film: This material provides a waterproof barrier to prevent leakage but is not breathable.

● Breathable films: Newer technologies use microporous films that allow air to circulate while still preventing liquid from passing through.

Sustainable Alternatives:

● Biodegradable polymers: Plant-based films that are not only leakproof but also eco-friendly.

● Plant-based films: Derived from renewable resources, these films decompose more easily than traditional plastics.

Function:

The backsheet ensures that fluid is contained within the pad, preventing leakage onto clothing. Modern breathable backsheets improve comfort by allowing moisture vapor to escape while maintaining leak prevention.

2.4 Wings: Added Security and Comfort

Wings are flaps of material that extend from the sides of the pad and fold around the edges of the underwear. They provide additional security, preventing the pad from shifting during movement.

Common Materials:

● Nonwoven fabric: Used for the wings to maintain flexibility and comfort.

● Adhesive: Keeps the wings in place and ensures the pad stays securely attached to the underwear.

Sustainable Alternatives:

● Biodegradable adhesives: These adhesives are designed to be effective without leaving harmful residues.

● Compostable nonwovens: Materials that break down more naturally, contributing to the reduction of waste.

Function:

Wings prevent the pad from bunching up or shifting, ensuring a secure fit and preventing leaks along the sides. They are especially useful for overnight pads or heavy flow days.

2.5 Adhesive: Binding the Layers Together

Adhesive is used to secure the various layers of the sanitary towel and to keep the pad in place throughout the day. It’s essential for maintaining the pad’s structure and ensuring it doesn’t move out of position.

Common Materials:

● Pressure-sensitive adhesives (PSA): These adhesives allow the pad to stick to the underwear securely.

Sustainable Alternatives:

● Bio-based adhesives: Made from renewable resources, these adhesives are environmentally friendly and perform similarly to traditional ones.

● Water-activated adhesives: A new innovation that uses water to activate the adhesive, providing a safer and more sustainable option.

Function:

Adhesive ensures that the pad stays attached to the underwear and maintains its shape throughout wear. It’s crucial for preventing discomfort and ensuring the pad functions as intended.

 

Material Comparison Table: Common vs. Sustainable Materials in Sanitary Towels

Layer

Common Materials

Sustainable Alternatives

Benefits

Topsheet

Polypropylene, Polyethylene

Organic Cotton, Bamboo Fiber

Soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, eco-friendly

Absorbent Core

Wood Pulp, Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP)

Bamboo Fiber, Banana Fiber

High absorbency, biodegradable, eco-friendly

Backsheet

Polyethylene Film

Biodegradable Polymers, Plant-based Films

Leak-proof, breathable, environmentally friendly

Wings

Nonwoven Fabric, Adhesive

Biodegradable Adhesives, Compostable Nonwovens

Secure fit, reduced waste

Adhesive

Pressure-sensitive Adhesives (PSA)

Bio-based Adhesives, Water-activated Adhesives

Skin-safe, eco-friendly, secure attachment

 

3. The Rise of Sustainable Sanitary Towel Materials

As awareness grows about environmental issues and personal health, more consumers are seeking eco-friendly alternatives in their menstrual products. Let’s explore the sustainable materials that are shaping the future of sanitary towels.

3.1 Organic Cotton: A Soft and Breathable Natural Option

Organic cotton has emerged as a popular choice for those looking to avoid the chemicals and pesticides often found in conventional cotton. It is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, making it ideal for sensitive skin.

Benefits:

● Soft and breathable: Provides comfort while reducing the risk of irritation.

● Hypoallergenic: Gentle on sensitive skin and less likely to cause allergies.

● Biodegradable: Completely breaks down, reducing landfill waste.

3.2 Bamboo Fiber: The Eco-Friendly All-Rounder

Bamboo fiber is becoming a go-to material for eco-conscious consumers due to its fast growth, low water usage, and natural antibacterial properties. It is highly absorbent and biodegradable, making it a great alternative to traditional synthetic fibers.

Benefits:

● Highly absorbent: Excellent at managing menstrual fluid.

● Antibacterial: Reduces the risk of bacterial growth and odors.

● Biodegradable: Breaks down naturally, unlike synthetic materials.

3.3 Biodegradable Polymers: Naturally Degradable Materials

Traditional plastics can take hundreds of years to decompose, contributing to significant environmental waste. Biodegradable polymers offer an alternative that breaks down more easily in the environment.

Benefits:

● Reduces plastic waste: Helps combat the growing issue of plastic pollution.

● Environmentally friendly: A more sustainable option that supports circular economies.

● Supports sustainability: Contributes to reducing the environmental footprint of menstrual products.

3.4 Bio-based Superabsorbent Polymers (SAP)

Bio-based SAPs are an emerging alternative to traditional, petroleum-based SAPs. These materials are derived from renewable sources and provide the same high absorbency as synthetic polymers, without the environmental cost.

Benefits:

● Enhanced absorbency: Provides superior fluid retention while reducing bulk.

● Reduces environmental impact: Made from sustainable sources, these SAPs are more eco-friendly.

● Bio-based alternatives: Helps reduce dependence on petroleum-based products.

 

4. The Future of Sanitary Towels: Innovation and Sustainability

The sanitary towel industry is constantly evolving. As consumers become more aware of the environmental and health impacts of their choices, manufacturers are innovating to meet demand for eco-friendly, sustainable products.

4.1 Reusable Products: Eco-Friendly Alternatives

Reusable products, such as period underwear and menstrual cups, are gaining popularity as consumers seek to reduce waste. These products are often made from sustainable materials and can be used for multiple cycles, providing a long-term solution to menstrual care.

Examples:

● Period underwear: Designed to absorb menstrual fluid, these garments can be worn throughout the day and washed for reuse.

● Menstrual cups: Flexible cups inserted into the vagina to collect menstrual fluid, providing an eco-friendly and reusable alternative to disposable pads.

4.2 Bio-based Materials: Comprehensive Solutions for the Future

Research is underway to develop bio-based materials for every layer of the sanitary towel, including adhesives and packaging. These innovations aim to create a more sustainable product lifecycle from start to finish.

Research Focus:

● Biodegradable materials: Research into fully biodegradable alternatives to current plastic components is a priority.

● Eco-friendly packaging: Developing sustainable packaging solutions to complement the product itself.

 

5. Conclusion

Sanitary towels are made from various materials that impact comfort, absorbency, and performance. Consumers should consider both health and environmental factors when selecting sanitary products. Eco-friendly alternatives, such as organic cotton and bamboo fiber, offer significant benefits. Lonsun Corporation provides high-quality sanitary towels that prioritize both comfort and sustainability, offering a valuable solution for eco-conscious consumers.

 

FAQ

Q: What are the main Sanitary Towels Raw Materials used in production?

A: The main materials include nonwoven fabrics, organic cotton, bamboo fiber, wood pulp, and superabsorbent polymers (SAP). These materials ensure comfort, absorbency, and leak prevention.

Q: Why is it important to know the Sanitary Towels Raw Materials?

A: Understanding the raw materials helps consumers make informed choices, considering factors like comfort, skin sensitivity, and environmental impact.

Q: Are there eco-friendly alternatives for Sanitary Towels Raw Materials?

A: Yes, sustainable alternatives include organic cotton, bamboo fiber, and biodegradable polymers. These materials offer environmental benefits without compromising performance.

Q: How do Sanitary Towels Raw Materials affect performance?

A: The materials used in sanitary towels influence their absorbency, comfort, and leak protection. Superabsorbent polymers (SAP) and soft fabrics enhance performance.

Q: Do Sanitary Towels Raw Materials impact the price?

A: Yes, eco-friendly materials like organic cotton or bamboo can increase production costs, but they offer better environmental benefits and can be worth the investment.

 


Send Us Message

Quick Links

Product Category

Contact Us

Address: Shengrong Plaza, No.1110 Dongfu Road, Tongyuan Community, Chengdong Street, Fengze District, Quanzhou, Fujian
 
Tel.:  +86-595-22069986
Mob./WhatsApp:  +86-19905053351
Email:  info@toplonsun.com
Send Us Message
Copyrights 2023 LONSUN. All rights reserved. SitemapPrivacy Policy