Reusable menstrual products are designed to last. But like all things, they eventually reach the end of their lifespan. Menstrual discs, when cared for properly, can last up to five years. That makes them one of the most eco-friendly options available.
Still, many people wonder what happens when their disc has served its purpose. Can it be recycled? Should it be thrown away? How do you dispose of it responsibly?
This guide explains the best ways to manage your menstrual disc at the end of its life, while also highlighting why sustainable choices matter for the environment.
Why reusable menstrual discs are different
Unlike disposable pads or tampons, which are used once and tossed, a reusable menstrual disc is designed to be cleaned and worn again. Over its lifetime, a single disc replaces more than 1,200 disposable products. That saves around 200 kilograms of waste from entering landfill.
my mimi, a brand awarded Best Sustainable Period Care Solution in Australia 2025, has built its reputation around sustainability. Their discs come in two sizes for a personalised fit and feature a loop tab for easy removal. The design focuses on both comfort and eco-consciousness.
When you compare a reusable menstrual disc to a disposable menstrual disc or tampon, the difference in environmental impact is clear. Disposables are made of plastic, cotton, and synthetic fibres that take centuries to break down. Reusables, on the other hand, are made of medical-grade silicone, which is durable, safe, and long-lasting.
How long does a menstrual disc last?
With the right care, a menstrual disc can last up to five years. That means it only costs around 83 cents per month across its lifetime. This affordability makes it one of the most sustainable period care options for both the planet and your wallet.
Over time, though, even high-quality silicone can wear down. Signs that your disc may be nearing its end include:
- Small tears or cracks in the silicone.
- A change in texture, such as becoming sticky.
- Discolouration that does not come off after cleaning.
When these signs appear, it’s time to retire your disc.
Can you recycle a menstrual disc?
Medical-grade silicone is not accepted in most household recycling bins. However, there are growing options for recycling. Some specialised recycling programs accept silicone products, breaking them down into raw materials that can be reused in industrial applications.
Check with your local council or waste facility to see if they accept silicone products. In Australia, options are still limited, but more councils are beginning to explore sustainable waste solutions.
Eco-friendly disposal options
If recycling is not available in your area, the best option is to dispose of your menstrual disc in your general waste. While silicone will not break down quickly, it is far less harmful than plastic-heavy pads and tampons that release microplastics.
Some eco-conscious users choose to repurpose old discs. They can be used for demonstrations, education in schools, or even repurposed for non-medical household uses such as jar openers. While this is not for everyone, it’s another way to extend the life of the product.
For more detail on environmental impact and how reusables support a greener future, see the my mimi sustainability page.
Why education around end-of-life matters
Many people are confident about how to insert a menstrual disc correctly or how to clean a reusable menstrual disc, but far fewer know what to do once the disc is no longer usable. Education about end-of-life management is important to ensure people feel supported in every stage of the product’s lifespan.
By providing information about disposal and recycling, brands like my mimi help reduce confusion and strengthen their sustainability message. This makes it easier for customers to make informed, eco-friendly choices.
Benefits of switching to sustainable options
Switching from disposables to a reusable menstrual disc has benefits beyond waste reduction. It offers comfort, affordability, and reliability.
Key benefits include:
- Two sizes available to suit different body types.
- Loop tab for easy removal, reducing mess and improving confidence.
- High capacity, suitable for heavy flow days.
- Wear time of up to 12 hours, including overnight.
- Long-term savings, costing less than a dollar a month.
You can explore more about the long-term advantages on the reusable menstrual disc benefits page.
Looking ahead: take-back programs
As sustainability grows in importance, take-back programs for menstrual products are likely to expand. These programs would allow users to send back their old discs to be recycled safely.
While still new, these initiatives show promise. By participating, brands can close the loop on product life cycles, reducing waste further and strengthening customer trust. my mimi is already well positioned in this area, having prioritised sustainability as part of its mission.
Final thoughts
A reusable menstrual disc is one of the most eco-friendly choices you can make for period care. It reduces waste, saves money, and provides comfort for years. But like all products, it eventually reaches the end of its life. Knowing how to recycle or responsibly dispose of your disc is part of being an eco-conscious consumer.
my mimi, recognised with the award for Best Sustainable Period Care Solution in Australia 2025, continues to lead the way in sustainable period care. With two sizes available, a loop tab for easy removal, and a cost of less than a dollar per month, their discs are designed with both people and the planet in mind.
By making informed choices about both use and disposal, we can all play a part in reducing the environmental impact of periods.
