Almost all women choose to use sanitary napkins during menstruation. This is due to the ease of use, care and storage of sanitary napkins.
Because sanitary napkins are disposable items that must be thrown away after use, the question arises whether sanitary napkins must be washed before being thrown away or whether they can be thrown away immediately.
Some myths state that throwing away sanitary napkins without washing them first is bad, because it can invite unwanted things. Despite this myth, many people think that washing sanitary napkins before throwing them away is more hygienic.
In this context, we need to consider religious views as well as health aspects. So far, the act of washing sanitary napkins before throwing them away is often done because of fear of myths that have developed in society.
So, do we actually need to wash sanitary napkins before throwing them away? Find the answer in this article.
Do Sanitary Pads Have to Be Washed?
Basically, there are no specific rules regarding whether sanitary napkins should be washed first or not. However, it is important to know the type of sanitary napkin you are using, whether it is a disposable sanitary napkin or a cloth sanitary napkin.
Disposable sanitary napkins do not need to be washed after use because this type of sanitary napkin uses disposable material which functions to absorb menstrual blood and is designed to be thrown away directly after use.
However, some women may choose to wash the pads first for hygiene reasons, and this is also a valid choice. However, the most important thing is to make sure that you dispose of sanitary napkins in the correct way.
There are several reasons why washing sanitary napkins before throwing them away is not appropriate. These reasons include:
- Sanitary napkins do not need to be washed before being thrown away because our hands will come into direct contact with the blood, making them unhygienic, and washing them will require a lot of water.
- Burying sanitary napkins in the ground will pollute the environment, because sanitary napkins are objects that cannot be decomposed.
- Throwing away sanitary napkins in the toilet or toilet will cause a blockage in the drain.
Thus, it is important to dispose of bandages in the correct way and in accordance with the prevailing hygiene rules.
Read also: Types of sanitary napkins
Important Considerations Before Washing Bandages
Before washing used bandages, there are some important things to note. Washing the bandages before disposal can cause several problems.
First, washing sanitary napkins can cause the spread of bacteria on the sanitary napkins to other surfaces, such as the sink or hands. This can increase the risk of infection, especially if the pad is not washed properly.
Apart from that, washing sanitary napkins can also damage the materials they are made from, such as the absorbent layer. When the material they are made from breaks down, the dressing may no longer absorb blood as well, which can increase the risk of leakage. Cotton from sanitary napkins that have collected menstrual blood can decompose and spread.
Furthermore, washing sanitary napkins before disposal can be wasteful of water if too much water is used, which is ultimately not environmentally friendly. Therefore, it is better to throw away used sanitary napkins directly into the trash without washing them first.
The Islamic View of Unwashed Pads
According to medical opinion, disposable sanitary napkins do not need to be washed. However, what is the ruling on unwashed sanitary napkins from an Islamic perspective?
Quoting from Sharia Consultation, which explains that in the Islamic Fatawa, there was not a single scholar whose knowledge was recognized as recommending that women clean used sanitary napkins that hold menstrual blood before throwing them away.
In fact, from the actions of the female companions, it can be seen that they did not wash the bandages, even though the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, knew about it. The Prophet sallallahu 'alaihi wa sallam never advocated or forbade such actions.
And the most important and mandatory thing to do is clean menstrual blood that sticks to clothes or body when you want to pray after menstruation is finished.
Tips for disposing of sanitary napkins properly and safely for the environment
Apart from it being important to know whether sanitary napkins should be washed after use, you also have to know the correct way to dispose of sanitary napkins so as not to damage the environment.
Read also: Can I wash the diaper at night?
Here's how to properly dispose of a bandage:
1. Fold the Wrap Correctly
After using a sanitary napkin, fold it neatly before throwing it away, then wrap it in toilet tissue or the available sanitary napkin wrapping paper. This method is used to maintain cleanliness, avoid the spread of germs, minimize unpleasant odors, and prevent the pads from being infested with insects such as flies.
2. Get into the habit of wrapping the bandage before throwing it away
Apart from folding it with the new sanitary napkin wrapper that will be used, you can also wrap the used sanitary napkin before throwing it in the trash. It would be better if you throw it away in a plastic bag marked that it is a sanitary napkin. This method is used to make it easier for cleaning staff to dispose of waste according to its type.
3. Dispose of Bandages in the Trash
If you have folded and wrapped the used sanitary napkin properly, then you can throw it in the trash. If possible, make sure the trash can you use has a lid. A trash can with a lid will help prevent unpleasant odors and prevent wild animals such as cats from rummaging through the trash can.
4. Don't try to throw the sanitary napkin into the toilet
The best way to dispose of sanitary napkins that does not damage the environment is not to throw used sanitary napkins into the toilet because this can clog the drains. Make sure to properly dispose of sanitary napkins in the appropriate trash can.
Let's learn about "Sanitary Pads Don't Need to be Washed, Can Be Thrown Away!" in this video
Not Washing Sanitary Napkins Can Be Visited by Ghosts Is a Myth
One of the myths that is still widely believed regarding menstruation is the belief that not washing sanitary napkins before throwing them away can bring ghosts. This myth often makes women feel afraid and burdened.
In fact, there is no scientific evidence to support this myth. Sanitary napkins on the market are generally designed for single use and do not need to be washed before being thrown away. Washing used sanitary napkins is not recommended because it can damage the structure of the sanitary napkins and pollute the environment.
Please remember that not all areas have adequate access to water. Washing used sanitary napkins requires a lot of water, so this can be an obstacle for some women.
Instead, make sure to wrap used sanitary napkins tightly before throwing them in the trash. This aims to maintain cleanliness and prevent unpleasant odors.
It is important to get accurate information about menstruation from trusted sources such as doctors or other health professionals. Avoid spreading unfounded myths and create an informative and supportive environment for women during menstruation.
Choosing the Right Way to Manage Sanitary Pads
Menstruation is a natural part of a woman's life. One product commonly used to manage menstruation is sanitary napkins. However, there are two options for handling used sanitary napkins, namely washing them or throwing them away immediately. This decision often leads to confusion and debate.
Therefore, the following guide is here to help women make the right decisions that suit their needs.
1. Washing the Bandage
For women who choose to wash sanitary napkins, it is important to follow the correct steps. First, wash the sanitary napkin with soap and clean water after use. Make sure to remove any blood and bacteria attached to it. Rinse thoroughly and dry thoroughly before throwing it away. This method can minimize the risk of infection and maintain a clean environment.
2. Discarding the Bandage
For women who choose to immediately throw away sanitary napkins, it is important to follow these steps. First, wrap the sanitary napkin tightly in paper or a plastic bag before throwing it in the trash. This aims to prevent the spread of odors and bacteria. Avoid flushing sanitary napkins down the toilet as this can clog drains and cause problems with the drainage system.
3. Choose safe and comfortable feminine products
Apart from choosing the right way to manage sanitary napkins, it is also important to choose feminine products that are safe and comfortable. Choose sanitary napkins, both cloth and disposable, which are made from soft materials and do not cause irritation, such as Nona Woman's organic sanitary napkins.
Using the right products can reduce the risk of allergies and infections, and provide maximum comfort during menstruation. Don't hesitate to try the types and brands of organic sanitary napkins from Nona Woman until you find which one is most suitable for you to use.
Ultimately, the decision to wash or throw away used pads is a personal choice. There are no right or wrong answers. The most important thing is to choose the method that best suits your needs and preferences, and ensure that used sanitary napkins are managed properly to maintain a healthy and clean environment.
Read also: Knowing the Natural Ingredients Used in Organic Feminine Pads
Nona Woman's Organic Sanitary Pads, Safe and Comfortable for Sensitive Skin
Miss Woman understands women's need for safe and comfortable menstrual products. Therefore, Nona Woman presents sanitary napkins made from "food grade" materials and free from dangerous chemicals such as chlorine and fragrance. This makes Nona Woman an ideal choice for women with sensitive skin that gets irritated easily.
Nona Woman's sanitary napkins are made with soft and breathable organic cotton, so they are able to absorb well and keep the feminine area dry and free of moisture. The thin and flexible design follows the curves of the body, so it doesn't feel bulky and provides a comfortable feeling all day long.
More than that, Miss Woman is also committed to supporting women's menstrual health by donating some of her profits to help underprivileged women in Indonesia get access to appropriate menstrual products.
By choosing Nona Woman, you not only get safe and comfortable sanitary napkins, but also contribute to realizing menstrual equality for women in Indonesia.
References:
https://yoona.id/blog/pembalut-harus-dicuci/#hukum-islam-mengenai-pembalut-yang-tidak-dicuci
https://www.charmgirlstalk.com/artikel/939/apakah-pembalut-harus-dicuci-cek-faktanya-disini-ya
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