Redefining Period Care Performance with Sustainable Bamboo: The Cheeky Panda Launches Pads and Liners
Traditional period products are causing two major problems. They are terrible for our planet, taking up to 500 years to decompose, and pose potential health risks - with research just last year discovering trace amounts of up to 16 heavy metals in feminine hygiene products from 14 different brands.
The Cheeky Panda, leader in products made from sustainable bamboo, launches a solution with its innovative bamboo period pads and liners, designed with a soft kind-to-skin bamboo top and the UK's first bamboo core* – all while delivering exceptional leak-proof protection that surpasses conventional pads in performance.
A game-changing alternative to traditional options, the core is made with 100% super-absorbent bamboo instead of the synthetic super-absorbent polymers (SAP) found in conventional products, or wood pulp used in some newer alternatives. While wood pulp represents a step toward sustainability, it still requires cutting down trees which take decades to grow. In contrast, bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants on earth and can be harvested frequently without depleting resources.
By leveraging bamboo's rapid growth and renewable nature, The Cheeky Panda offers a product that is not just healthier for users, but also significantly reduces environmental impact, providing an effective and sustainable alternative to traditional period products. The Cheeky Panda pads are also 100% metal-free, eliminating exposure to potentially harmful heavy metals during use.
The ecological challenges of traditional products*:
- Pads are the fifth most common item found on European shores, with the average menstruating person throwing away up to 200kg of period products in their lifetime
- One traditional pad can take up to 500 years to decompose, releasing microplastics into waterways which can impact marine life and ecosystems
- Conventional products can contain up to 3,000 chemicals including potential carcinogens, allergens, and endocrine disruptors
- Just one ‘big brand’ pack of 14 pads can contain the same amount of plastic as five plastic bags
Why is bamboo the solution?
- Bamboo is a rapidly renewable resource, growing up to 91 centimetres daily without the requirement of pesticides
- Bamboo absorbs 60 tonnes of CO2 per hectare annually and releases 35% more oxygen than trees
- Naturally hypoallergenic bamboo fibres are kind to sensitive skin whilst its naturally antibacterial properties reduce odour without chemical additives
- As a natural plant, bamboo fibres are biodegradable.
The Cheeky Panda's innovation eliminates the need for plastic and wood pulp cores while maintaining high absorbency. Combined with bamboo's unmatched sustainability credentials* and a biodegradable cornstarch wrapper, this redefines feminine hygiene with a solution that is both trustworthy and environmentally responsible.
"We're tackling both environmental and health challenges with one innovative solution," says Julie Chen, Co-Founder and CEO at The Cheeky Panda. “We believe bamboo is the very best material for personal care and household essentials due to its rapid growth and vast natural benefits, and this launch brings bamboo into a new category, combining comfort and sustainability."
The Cheeky Panda's non-toxic, biodegradable bamboo pads are available now at VOW Wholesale, Lyreco, Exertis, Banner & Complete with launches planned with Viking and RS Group. RRP: 18 Panty Liners £2.25; 15 Light Flow Period Pads £2.75; 12 Heavy Flow Period Pads £2.75; 10 Night Period Pads £2.75
Please see imagery HERE
*[1] 100% bamboo lining & core patent pending
*[2] Traditional period product sustainability data collated from GovUK & Friends of the Earth
*[3] The Cheeky Panda has published its Lifecycle Assessment Report and 2023/2024 Impact Report to ensure full transparency in sustainability. The Cheeky Panda also has completed heavy metal test reports and biodegradable test reports, further demonstrating its commitment to transparency.
About The Cheeky Panda
Founded in January 2016 by entrepreneurs Julie Chen and Chris Forbes, The Cheeky Panda believes bamboo is the ultimate eco-friendly resource. With a turnover in 2024 of £12m and 2025 forecast at £15m, the B Corp certified brand offers a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional, paper-based, everyday essentials. Its award-winning range of bamboo-based products spans personal care, baby and beauty.
