Aunt Flow, known for its free-vend tampon and pad dispensers, has announced the launch of a new sanitary disposal system for menstrual products. This system aims to address the hygiene and environmental concerns associated with current disposal methods in public restrooms.
The company reports that inadequate disposal infrastructure in restrooms often leads to used tampons and pads being discarded in regular trash bins, causing odors and potential bacterial exposure. Even when designated bins are available, they typically have swinging doors that users must touch, and can often be overflowing, creating exposure risks to biohazardous waste.
Aunt Flow’s new system includes easily accessible plant-based disposal bags and touch-free bins. The bins open when a hand is waved above the sensor, and contain a continuous liner bag to minimize direct contact with contaminants during disposal.
Claire Coder, Founder and Chief Estrogen Officer at Aunt Flow, stated: “Hygienic, responsible disposal of period products goes a long way in deterring facility plumbing nightmares as well as creating a safer environment for janitorial staff and bathroom guests by reducing exposure to blood-borne pathogens. As a company built by menstruators, we know how unsanitary and problematic traditional period product disposal ‘systems’ are for everyone involved, and we are committed to providing a real solution, one stall at a time.”
The company highlights that 30 percent of menstruators say they’d rather flush their used period products in public restrooms, a practice that can lead to plumbing issues and environmental harm. Aunt Flow’s system aims to promote responsible disposal and keep menstrual product waste out of rivers and oceans.
