Kotex

How ethical is Kotex?

Kotex is a brand of period products which has a below-benchmark score on The Good Shopping Guide’s Ethical Period Products Ratings Table. Although Kotex has not yet met our ethical benchmark, we hope to see the brand make progress in the future.

We would have extra confidence in Kotex if it applied for Ethical Accreditation, whereby The Good Shopping Guide would make further detailed assessment and recommendations for improvement. Find out more about the issues facing the Ethical Period Products sector.

What does Kotex do?

Kotex is an American brand of period products which is owned by Kimberley-Clark and was launched in 1920 to make use of leftover cellucotton from World War I bandages.

In which areas does Kotex perform poorly?

Kotex’s products lack any Vegetarian or vegan, or Organic certification so a bottom score is given for these criteria. Kotex also gets a bottom rating for Animal Welfare as Kimberley-Clark confirms that animal testing is used when required by law.

Kotex scores poorly for Political Donations as Kimberley-Clark Corp. donated more than our threshold amount in recent election cycles. Find out more about how we rate by exploring our ethical criteria.

Past Criticisms of Kotex’s record

In 2022 Kimberley-Clark agreed to pay a $20m settlement relating to claims that its ‘flushable’ wipes cause damage to and clog pipes, and are not suitable to be flushed as advertised.

In which areas does Kotex score well for its ethics?

Kotex gets a top rating for its Environmental Report, as Kimberley-Clark’s 2030 Goals publication  includes several targets on carbon emissions and use of water and plastics.

We found no criticisms of Kotex relating to; GM, Nuclear Power, Fossil Fuels, Armaments or Irresponsible Marketing  therefore the brand scores well for these criteria. Find out more about how we rate.

How can Kotex improve its ethical rating?

The below-benchmark score that Kotex is awarded with on The Good Shopping Guide’s Ethical Period Products Ratings Table is the result of an evaluation of multiple ethical criteria.

To reach our minimum ethical benchmark and qualify for Ethical Accreditation, Kotex has some issues to resolve.  If it applies for Ethical Accreditation, The Good Shopping Guide will be able to give Kotex some guidance to improve on these areas.

Were you aware that your brand could benefit from Ethical Accreditation? Brands accredited by The Good Shopping Guide can display our Ethical Mark, showcasing to consumers that it is an ethical and sustainable brand. If you’re interested in learning more, please contact us or complete a Free Initial Assessment form.