Should your teen flush tampons?

How to advise your teen

Quick summary

1️⃣ Flushing tampons can block pipes because they don’t break down like toilet paper

2️⃣ The best way to dispose of tampons is to wrap them and throw them in the bin (or use disposal bags if there’s no bin)

3️⃣ As a parent you can help by encouraging your teen to learn about about proper disposal and reminding them that periods are totally natural

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As your teen navigates using period products, it’s a good idea to discuss proper disposal methods.

One common question is whether tampons can be flushed down the toilet. 

While it might seem convenient, flushing tampons is not a good idea for several reasons.

Many teens may assume that because tampons are small and seem to disappear when flushed, they don’t cause problems. 

However, teaching your teen why flushing tampons is harmful can help prevent costly plumbing repairs and protect the environment.

Here’s everything you and your teen need to know about whether you can flush tampons.

Flushing tampons and plumbing systems

👉 Tampons are designed to be highly absorbent and expand when they come into contact with liquid

👉 Because of this, they don’t break down easily in water like toilet paper

👉 Flushing tampons can lead to clogged pipes and plumbing issues, which can be expensive and inconvenient to fix

Why plumbing systems can’t handle flushed tampons

Even though toilets can handle liquids and toilet paper, they aren’t designed for items that don’t dissolve. 

When flushed, tampons swell up and get stuck in pipes, creating blockages that can back up plumbing systems.

At home, this could mean expensive repairs – but in public bathrooms, flushing tampons can cause major plumbing failures that affect multiple people. 

Some teens may worry about carrying a used tampon if there’s no bin, but knowing the risks of flushing can help them make the right choice in these moments.

The environmental impact of flushing tampons

Flushing tampons not only damages plumbing but also can harm the environment.

👉 When flushed, tampons often end up in sewage treatment plants that aren’t equipped to handle them

👉 If sewage systems overflow or fail, tampons can be released into rivers, lakes, or even the ocean

👉 Plastic applicators and tampon fibres contribute to waste and pollution in water systems

How flushed tampons end up in the sea

When sewage systems get overwhelmed – especially during heavy rainfall or floods – tampons and other non-biodegradable waste can escape into natural water sources. 

This is why some beaches have been found with tampon applicators and period product waste washing up on the shore.

Proper disposal helps reduce pollution and ensures that period products don’t end up damaging marine ecosystems.

Proper disposal of tampons (instead of flushing)

Teaching your teen how to properly dispose of tampons is an important part of period care. 

The best method is simple:

👉 Wrap the tampon in toilet paper or a period product disposal bag and place it in the bin

👉 Many bathrooms, especially public restrooms, provide bins specifically for period products

👉 If your teen is worried about someone seeing the product in the bin, they can place some tissue on top – but remind them that periods are natural and nothing to be embarrassed about

Disposing of a tampon without a bin

Some bathrooms may not have a sanitary bin – this can be confusing for teens. 

If they ever find themselves in a situation where no bin is available:

👉 Use a disposal bag – many period product brands sell small disposal bags that fit discreetly in a pocket

👉 Keep a small pouch in their bag  – a simple zip-up pouch or pocket in their bag can be used to store a wrapped tampon until they find a bin

👉 Never flush, even in an emergency – it might seem like a last resort, but flushing tampons can cause larger problems later

Encouraging your teen to be prepared with disposal options can help them feel more confident in managing their period in different settings.

Eco-friendly alternatives to using tampons

If your teen is eco-conscious, consider discussing reusable period products. 

Some teens worry about the waste produced by disposable period products, and there are sustainable options that don’t require disposal after each use.

Alternatives to disposable tampons

👉 Menstrual cups: these silicone cups collect rather than absorb period flow – they’re reusable for years, making them a cost-effective and environmentally friendly choice

👉 Reusable pads: these washable cloth pads function just like disposables but can be cleaned and reused multiple times

👉 Period pants: designed with built-in absorbency, period underwear is comfortable, discreet, and easy to manage – you can also get period swimwear which is great if they need to swim

Reusable products help reduce waste and provide a long-term solution for teens who want a more sustainable period routine.

Addressing period stigma and embarrassment

Some teens may feel awkward about disposing of tampons in a bin, especially if they worry about others seeing them. 

It’s important to remind your teen that periods are completely natural – there’s nothing to hide or feel ashamed of.

Encouraging confidence in disposing of period products properly

👉 Normalise conversations – let your teen know that all menstruating people go through this, and it’s nothing to be embarrassed about

👉 Remind them that bins are for this purpose – bins exist for a reason, and no one will be paying close attention

👉 Create a safe space – if they feel nervous, reassure them that handling their period in public is just as normal as going to the toilet

By building confidence and removing the stigma, you help your teen feel empowered in managing their period without unnecessary stress or discomfort.

Hopefully this helps you and your teen! If you need any info on whether tampons are safe for teens, luna has a whole guide you can explore.

By explaining how tampons should be binned, you’re helping them develop responsible habits that protect plumbing, the environment, and their personal hygiene.

Just keep encouraging open conversations and letting them know that periods are normal, natural, and nothing to be ashamed of.

With the right knowledge, they’ll feel more confident in managing their period wherever they are.