Snappies: Organic, Reusable, Alternative Pads Coming To Malta As Fundraiser Is Launched
A new innovative alternative sanitary product for women has been created in Malta – and a fundraiser has been launched to get the product out of the drawing board and into your life.
“Snappies are reusable pads that look similar to the winged single-use pads – with a big difference,” explains creator Sonia Sano Suraci.
As the owner of environmental and organic shop Ħames Sensi, Sano Suraci wanted to create something closer to her value system. Although Snappies share the convenience afforded by single-use pads, they are far more safe, reliable and sustainable, Sano Suraci says.
Made from organic cotton, Snappies feature a silver anti-bacterial lining, are leak-proof and comfortable – and they can significantly reduce waste by lasting five years or more, saving the equivalent of 1500 single-use pads or an average of €650 over that time.
“They are easy to use and change, guaranteeing safety against leaks through the use of plastic snap-on buttons instead of glue. These buttons prevent the pads from moving around, unlike the reusable pads that are currently on the market. The pads allow you to remain in the same underwear, simply snapping on a new, clean Snappies pad when necessary and sealing the used one in a wet bag to be washed at home,” she said.
“With Snappies, I have not invented reusable pads – I have redesigned them to create a product that is impeccable.”
A crowdfunding campaign has been launched on ZAAR to raise €25,000 to fully develop produce and market globally.
“Currently, reusable pads are expensive and designed in a way that doesn’t always guarantee safety, practicality or ease of use,” continues Ms Sano Suraci. “Periods are natural, yet most women are very conscious of them. They fear leaking in public or using products that are bleached or made with plastic materials that could harm their body or threaten their reproductive health. Women have been paying a high price, both health-wise and environmentally – and it’s time for that to change.”
Sano Suraci believes her product has the potential to change the lives of women in developing countries too.
“We will be using the funds raised to produce and deliver the reusable pads and underwear sets that have been pre-booked. We hope to use any extra funding to help women and girls who cannot afford or who do not have access to sanitary products, particularly in developing countries, by donating to the relevant organisations,” she said.
Campaign backers can expect some attractive rewards depending on the amount donated.
For every pledge above €5, backers will receive a personal thank you email as a token of appreciation.
For a €70 donation, the sponsor will receive the One-Dayer early bird package including one pair of underwear, one small pad and two medium pads, all at a 30 per cent discount on the retail price and with shipping included.
Without the early bird offer, the One-Dayer Kit is then available for an €80 contribution alongside a 20 per cent discount.
The Doubled Kit, featuring a two-day set with two pairs of underwear, two small pads, four medium pads and two large pads, is available at a 40 per cent discount with the early bird offer for a donation of €120, and with a 30 per cent discount with a contribution of €140 beyond.
The Eco-Queen complete set including three pairs of underwear, three small pads, six medium pads and three large pads is available with a 40 per cent discount with a €180 donation in an early bird offer, while it will later be available with a 40 per cent discount for a donation of €210.
For a donation of €400 to the campaign, retailers will receive Snappies products of their choice worth a total of €800, as well as a mention on the website. With a donation of €500, sponsors will earn a spot on the dedicated sponsor list on the Snappies website and social media – forever.
“With your open heart, helping hand and generous donation, you will have the chance to be the first to try this amazing new product,” concluded Ms Sano Suraci. “Together, we will be the pioneers of a revolution that promises to change women’s lives the world over.”
Visitors are invited to donate to the Snappies crowdfunding campaign on ZAAR by following this link.