Sanitary Napkins & Vending Machines

Types

• Cotton or cellulose pad napkins — standard disposable pads in regular and extra-long sizes.
• Biodegradable or oxo-biodegradable napkins — made with materials intended to break down faster after disposal.
• Reusable cloth pads — washable pads sometimes distributed by NGOs and schools.
• Coin-operated or free-vend machines — wall-mounted units for school, college and office washrooms.
• Napkin incinerators — small electric units that burn used napkins in the washroom.
• Disposal bins and bags — covered bins and bags for safe napkin disposal.

What to check before buying

• BIS certification for sanitary napkins; IS 5405 is the Indian standard.
• Absorbency, length, wings and pack size matched to users.
• Material composition and whether it is free from fragrance additives or irritants.
• For vending machines: capacity in pads, coin or free-vend mode, wall or floor mounting and lock quality.
• For incinerators: burn capacity, power load, ash tray and a smoke-control design.
• Restocking, service support, warranty and a GST invoice.

Who buys them

Schools, colleges, offices, factories, hospitals, hostels, NGOs, housing societies and government offices.

Frequently asked questions

How many napkins should an institution stock?

Estimate by number of female users and average monthly use, and keep a buffer stock for a month or two. Ask suppliers about regular replenishment.

Where should vending machines be placed?

Place them inside or next to girls' and women's washrooms, where privacy is respected and the machine is easy to refill.

How should used napkins be disposed of?

Use covered bins with regular collection, or an incinerator where permitted by local rules.