Kotex Tampon Super 16 pcs
Lower concern, but no public transparency from Kotex on coatings.
Kotex tampons use standard cellulose-based absorbent cores and cotton/rayon covers not typically treated with PFAS. The brand makes no PFAS claims or discloses applicator composition.
We flunk more products than we pass. This one earned its grade. How we grade
Material
Rayon/cellulose core; cotton/rayon cover; plastic applicator
Lab data
No public lab test
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What Kotex Tampon Super 16 pcs is made of, ingredients and materials
Kotex Super uses a rayon and cellulose core (absorbent material), with a cotton or rayon cover, and a plastic applicator. Rayon is a regenerated cellulose fiber made from wood pulp and is the industry standard for absorbency in tampons. The plastic applicator is typically polypropylene or similar commodity plastic. This material combination is chemically stable under normal body conditions and poses minimal leaching risk during the short contact period (hours) of use.
What’s concerning
Category baseline
The starting point for this type of product, before anything specific to this product is counted.
No PFAS disclosure
No public statement from the brand about PFAS in this product.
Chlorine bleach residues in rayon core
Conventional rayon tampons are typically chlorine-bleached during processing. No toxicologically concerning residual levels have been established in regulatory testing, but traces may remain and are not publicly disclosed by Kotex. Users sensitive to chlorine or interested in minimizing exposure should seek unbleached options.
Microplastics
Polypropylene applicators are durable and stable at body temperature but may shed micro-fragments if cracked or degraded. Single-use design minimizes cumulative exposure. Risk is generally low but not zero; users concerned about microplastic exposure may prefer cardboard applicators (e.g., competitor brands).
Source, EPA ↗Allergic reaction to synthetic fibers or residual processing chemicals
Some individuals report vaginal irritation or allergic contact dermatitis with conventional tampons, though causation (fiber allergy vs. dyes vs. residual chemicals) is often unclear. Incidence is rare. If symptoms appear, switch to hypoallergenic or certified organic brands and consult a gynecologist.
Toxic shock syndrome risk (general tampon hazard, not brand-specific)
TSS is a well-known but rare risk associated with any tampon left in place too long, regardless of brand or absorbency level. Use Kotex Super only as directed, with replacement every 4-8 hours, to minimize risk.
What’s reassuring
Base material not linked to PFAS
The main material recorded for this product is not one associated with PFAS.
Azo dyes in cover or core
Kotex does not publish dye specifications. While azo dyes can degrade into aromatic amines, the regulatory standard for tampons and the minimal dye load in white or light-colored tampon covers make systemic toxicity unlikely. No adverse events have been reported.
How is this PFAS grade calculated?
The brand's record and disclosure
Kotex (Kimberly-Clark) has not published detailed ingredient lists or third-party certifications specific to tampon safety testing on their website. The brand does not highlight organic, chlorine-free, or other premium safety claims, placing it in the mainstream commercial category. No major safety recalls or controversies have been established for Kotex tampons in public health databases. Transparency around bleaching agents, dyes, or coatings remains limited compared to certified organic brands.
How it compares in its category
Kotex Super is a conventional tampon at the mass-market tier. It lacks certifications such as Organic, non-toxic (Leaping Bunny), or chlorine-free labeling that some premium competitors (e.g., Seventh Generation, Cora) carry. Conversely, it is widely available, affordable, and has an established user base with no documented acute safety signals. For absorption level, Super sits mid-range; users with heavier flow may choose super-plus alternatives.
If you buy it
Use as directed, insert fully and replace every 4-8 hours to minimize toxic shock syndrome risk. Do not leave in place for longer than 8 hours. Discard applicator in trash (not toilet) to prevent plumbing issues. If you experience unusual vaginal irritation, odor, or allergic symptoms, discontinue and consult a healthcare provider. For any concerns about dyes or bleaching residue, consider switching to unbleached or certified organic alternatives for comparison.
What is not known about PFAS in this product?
- Basis
- Model estimate, 72% confidence, not a lab result
- Lab test
- None on record for this exact product
- Brand statement
- Kotex has made a specific claim
Formulations change between production runs, so check the current label. How we grade.
What are the PFAS-free alternatives to Kotex Tampon Super 16 pcs?
- 100% organic cotton
- A third party reports verifying it as PFAS-free
- Heavy metals
Natracare
Organic Super Plus Tampons, 3 x 20 ct
- organic cotton, cardboard applicator
- The brand calls it PFAS-free, which we have not verified
- Dioxins from bleaching
Natracare
Organic Cotton Super Plus Tampons
- organic cotton, no added fluorochemicals
- The brand calls it PFAS-free, which we have not verified
- Verified PFAS-free by a third party
More tampons grades
How we score, every product runs through the same public 0-100 rubric based on materials, coatings, brand disclosure, lab findings, and recalls. See the full methodology → Spotted a mistake? Report an error.