You know what? Menstrual supplies SHOULD be free in public restrooms.

I mean, come on, they don't force you to bring your own toilet paper and paper towels, which are just as important.

@authorlevai uhm, not so sure about the paper towels, these are rare goods in public restrooms, unfortunately

but, yeah, they absolutely should be

@authorlevai Seems like the most basic level of hospitality, like providing a toilet.

@authorlevai @Jay8780 Italians would argue that you can do without toilet paper much more easily than people who menstruate can do without menstrual products!

@authorlevai Seriously. When I lived in Eastern Europe in the 90s for a year, I was surprised to find that in many cases they *did* expect you to bring your own toilet paper. Our library offers free menstrual supplies in both its gender neutral bathrooms.

@authorlevai
And to think in Michigan USA, we're fighting to have hygiene products, including soap & deodorant, covered under food stamps. 🙄
"But why are poor people dirty and smelly?"

@authorlevai like this? https://canberraweekly.com.au/act-first-in-australia-to-pass-free-period-product-access-bill/

@authorlevai Where I work has pads and tampons for free in a dispenser, but it is only accessible to those who have access to the building. Would be nice to see in public restrooms.

@authorlevai exactly!
"say, what's that in your pocket, Todd?"
"oh, just some toilet paper, iN cAsE i HavE tO taKe a SHit LatEr"

@authorlevai Well ... I've used public toilets in India where the paper towels are on offer as you leave from freelancers in exchange for "baksheesh". But yes, I've always got toilet paper in my backpack, you never know.

@authorlevai

I concede your point, but flip it around - do you really want your employer deciding which lowest-bid-option menstrual supplies you're going to use?
I avoid using anything but the urinal at my office because of the 120 grit toilet paper they buy in bulk.

@authorlevai @NoraReed the first time I went to Japan I discovered they *sold* toilet paper at the entrance to public bathrooms. (not in stores, actually public ones like at train stations)

So based on my experience I agree with you.

@authorlevai I only drink in pubs where this is the case.

@authorlevai Ann Arbor, MI, requires this in all public restrooms. 🙂

@authorlevai I would even say it must be made out of organic cotton, because not many women know that they could get cancer if they use conventionally grows cotton (with pesticides) and put it into their bodies.

@jessamyn @authorlevai Suddenly I'm wondering what terrible things could happen in a library without toilet paper.

@luciedigitalni @authorlevai I was expecting an article about a place where you have to bring your own toilet paper

@aburka Oh, my.

@luciedigitalni Yep, basically.

@XaiaX @authorlevai i can't believe kairosoft didn't make that up

@ScottSoCal Then bring your own. No one's stopping you.

But if you have an emergency situation, or your kid does, even the cheapest option is going to be better than crossing your fingers and clenching until you can get to a shop.

@authorlevai @lisamelton Don’t give corporations ideas… soon we’ll have to bring our own toilet paper and paper towels.

@authorlevai They are free at my doctor's office, nail salon and my church. It keeps the bathrooms cleaner too.