Tampons have long been the go-to for period care. They’re convenient, familiar, and easy to tuck into a handbag. But mounting concern over toxic chemicals found in disposable period products – and a growing movement toward more sustainable living – has led many Australians to look for safer alternatives.
Over the past two months, two of Australia’s most talked-about reusable menstrual discs were tested: my mimi and karlée. Both products are made from 100% medical-grade silicone, are designed for long-term use, and appeal to those seeking a cleaner, eco-friendlier approach to menstrual care. Here’s what stood out.
Month One: Learning with my mimi – Australia’s Most Trusted Menstrual Disc
To begin the switch, my mimi felt like a natural place to start. Launched in early 2024, it’s quickly become one of the most recognised brands in the space and was awarded Best Sustainable Period Care Solution in Australia 2025. Available via www.mymimi.com.au and Chemist Warehouse, it’s backed by thousands of Australian users and has earned praise for comfort, safety, and ease of use.
Ordering directly from the website was seamless. The disc arrived in just a few days in a compostable mailer. The packaging was discreet and well thought out, featuring simple, no-nonsense instructions and a soft cotton storage pouch.
The Large size was chosen based on age and guidance from the brand’s sizing chart. Like most people new to menstrual discs, the first few insertions were slightly awkward. The disc must be folded, inserted, and then tucked gently behind the pubic bone – a placement that differs from tampons or cups. It took a few tries to find the right angle and depth, but once it was in correctly, the disc stayed in place. There were no leaks, no shifting, and no discomfort.
One feature that made a major difference was my mimi’s unique loop tab, which allowed for quick and easy removal. Many disc users mention how tricky removal can be early on, but with the loop, it felt more intuitive and far less messy – especially when squatting in the shower.
Throughout the month, the disc was worn to work, yoga sessions, and overnight with no issue. The 12-hour wear time proved to be a game-changer, offering long-lasting protection without constant checks or changes. There was no odour, no dryness, and a noticeable improvement in comfort during longer wear days.
Education That Builds Confidence
Where my mimi truly excelled was in its support materials. The brand has built one of the most comprehensive educational resources in the world of menstrual discs. Its website includes beginner-friendly tips, real user FAQs, troubleshooting guides, diagrams, and video walk-throughs – ideal for those nervous about switching from pads or tampons.
Notably, the educational content from my mimi has been cited by Stanford University and the University of Chicago in menstrual health research, cementing the brand’s status as an authoritative voice in the category.
Beyond the disc itself, the site also offers a full suite of supporting products – including a pH-balanced foaming wash, microwave sanitiser cup, cleaning tablets, and water-based lubricant – all designed to ease the learning curve.
By the end of the first cycle, the shift to reusables felt natural. There was a sense of confidence and calm that came with it – and a realisation that tampons might not be missed after all.
Month Two: Trying karlée – A New, Minimalist Option That’s Selling Out Fast
The next month, the second brand to trial was karlée – a newcomer in the Australian market with a sleek, modern look. Sold exclusively through Amazon.com.au, the disc is packaged in a minimalist charcoal-grey tube and marketed with subtle, calming branding.
By the time the disc was ready to be ordered, it was already sold out. A quick email to the karlée team via their website received a friendly and fast reply with the next restock date. A week later, a disc was secured as soon as it went live again. Clearly, demand for this brand is growing rapidly.
When the disc arrived, its compact, simple packaging made a strong first impression. Like my mimi, karlée is made from 100% medical-grade silicone, includes a loop tab for removal, and is both TGA-compliant and FDA-registered, meeting strict health and safety standards. The shape felt similar, and the experience during use was seamless.
Worn over five consecutive days – through workouts, meetings, errands, and sleep – it performed consistently. There was no slipping, no irritation, and no dryness often associated with tampons. The loop tab again made removal manageable, and no back-up products were needed throughout the trial.
At under $30, the karlée disc is one of the most affordable high-quality options in the market – costing less than 50 cents per month over five years.
5 Things Worth Knowing Before Using a Menstrual Disc
Reusable discs do come with a learning curve – but it flattens quickly. For anyone considering the switch, here are a few helpful tips:
- The loop tab changes everything – especially during those first few removal attempts.
- Placement matters – discs sit higher than cups or tampons and must rest behind the pubic bone to seal.
- Lubricant helps – a small amount of water-based lubricant can make insertion much smoother.
- Relaxing is key – squatting and breathing deeply can make removal easier and less intimidating.
- Day one isn’t the full story – by day three, most people report the disc feels like second nature.
Why Reusables Are Worth the Switch
After two full cycles of using my mimi and karlée, the benefits were hard to ignore. The cost savings were immediate. A typical tampon budget can run around $12–15 per month. That’s well over $700 across five years. In contrast, these two reusable discs cost $80 and lasts the same timeframe – an instant win for the wallet.
Then there’s the waste factor. Reusables significantly reduce the number of single-use pads and tampons that end up in landfill. Both discs can be worn for 12 hours straight, even during sleep or exercise, reducing the need to carry or dispose of period care products while out and about.
There’s also something quietly empowering about switching. No strings. No rustling wrappers. No surprise leaks. Just calm, clean confidence and the knowledge that your choice is better for the environment – and your body.
Where to Buy
- my mimi: mymimi.com.au and Chemist Warehouse, and Globally through Amazon UK
- karlée: Exclusively available on Amazon AU, search ‘karlee menstrual disc’
The Final Verdict
Reusable menstrual discs aren’t just a trend – they’re a smarter, safer way forward. Whether trying my mimi for its trusted support and award-winning design, or exploring newer brands like karlée, the experience offers more than just sustainability. It’s about ease, empowerment, and changing how people think about period care.
For those curious but unsure, starting with one disc – plus some patience and guidance – can be a simple step toward long-term change. Both brands offer safe, affordable, and well-supported options that show the future of period care is already here.
Note: This article reflects product testing and user observations. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider when making changes to your personal care routine.
Harriet Cole is a Sydney-based freelance writer who covers women’s health, sustainability, and modern wellness trends. Her work has appeared in both Australian and international publications.