Spotting the gap: The rise of Australian cotton tampons

In a world saturated with polished ads and perfect smiles, it was a single TV commercial that set Kim Coskun on a path she never anticipated. As she watched a Carefree girl performing an exaggerated bus boogie, she felt a disconnect. The ad’s portrayal of femininity felt off-key, prompting Kim to question – why are tampons, an essential item, still shrouded in synthetic materials and outdated marketing? This moment of clarity led her to discover a gap in the market and, more importantly, an opportunity. Through relentless research and late-night development, Kim pioneered the first tampon made from Australian grown cotton, revolutionising period care and sparking a much-needed conversation about authenticity and women’s health.  

Kim’s journey from cosmetics sales and merchandising to founding Down Under Cotton is both inspiring and unconventional. Working in cosmetics gave her invaluable insights into bringing a product to market, but it was during her maternity leave in 2021 that the now mum of two launched her entrepreneurial venture.  

“My entrepreneurial journey began unexpectedly in 2015 while I was still working full-time,” recalls Kim.  

“One evening, I saw a TV ad featuring a Carefree girl performing an over-the-top bus boogie. As I watched, I realised I couldn’t relate to the out-of-touch marketing of this particular feminine hygiene brand.”  

This moment of realisation ignited her mission to redefine the conversation around period care. Conducting her research and development outside of work hours, Kim was determined to address the real issues women faced. 

From paddock to product  

The defining moment for Kim was her first trip to a cotton farm in Goondiwindi which she describes as “unforgettable”. 

“I drove four hours and spent the weekend with some incredible farmers. Reflecting back, it was a bold move for a single 26-year-old, but stepping out of my comfort zone proved incredibly rewarding.”  

This visit sparked the collaboration needed to bring her product to market.  

Developing Australia’s first tampons made with natural cotton fibres involved several key steps and milestones. Kim and her team conducted a survey to gauge demand for locally sourced products, confirming that over 50 per cent of respondents preferred Australian cotton. Securing a manufacturer willing to use Australian cotton proved difficult, requiring persistence and negotiations.  

“We even travelled to Switzerland to visit a tampon machine manufacturer, only to discover the high cost and rarity of such facilities. 

“Once we had secured a manufacturer, the next step was to make tampons using Australian cotton. This involved extensive testing to ensure that the product met our standards.”

A rigorous process behind every tampon  

The process of making tampons from locally grown cotton begins with the farmers.  

“Australia’s cotton growing season lasts approximately six months, starting with soil preparation and planting between August and November, and ending with picking between March and June,” explains Kim.  

Once harvested, the cotton is compressed into bales and transported to a ginning facility. There, it is separated from the seeds and re-compressed into rectangular bales. 

The cotton undergoes several stages to prepare for tampon manufacturing, including thorough sanitisation to eliminate impurities.  

“The sanitisation process avoids chlorine bleach, adhering to global organic textile standards for safety and cleanliness. Then the cotton is transformed into ribbon, which is used in the tampon manufacturing process.” 

Down Under Cotton launched its tampons in February 2021, beginning with pre-orders. The response was overwhelming, with the first order coming from a cotton farmer in Moree.  

“The launch was followed by a flood of orders, supportive messages, and interest from three rural pharmacies wanting to stock our brand in-store.” 

Sustainable and traceable  

Full traceability of the cotton from farm to finished product is a highlight of Down Under Cotton. This traceability ensures that each product is made from the highest quality Australian cotton. 

“From the moment our cotton is picked and turned into bales, it’s matched with a bale identification number that stays with the bale from farm to finished product. 

“Australian cotton is renowned globally for its exceptional quality, attributed to advanced research and innovation in the agricultural sector. 

“By choosing our tampons, you are selecting premium natural fibres that not only ensure comfort and reliability but also support sustainable and environmentally friendly practices.” 

Future plans  

Looking ahead, Kim has ambitious plans for Down Under Cotton.  

“We dream of being Australian-grown, owned and made. With the support of the consumer, Down Under Cotton is getting closer to being the first cotton tampon that’s Australian-grown, made and owned.” 

Kim’s venture is supported by the Australian cotton industry at every level.  

“I’ve felt support from every corner of the Australian cotton industry — from farmers and their families to the leadership of Cotton Australia.” 

Down Under Cotton is committed to sustainability, from sourcing materials to packaging.  

“Our raw materials are sourced from a family-owned and operated farm in Goondiwindi Queensland. The farm is Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) accredited, ensuring more sustainable cotton production.” 

By offering a sustainable alternative without compromising quality, Down Under Cotton is making a significant impact.  

“At Down Under Cotton, we believe every choice we make should benefit our bodies, communities, and the environment.”