When I first heard about using reusable pads instead of disposable pads, I wasn’t sure how I felt. Sure, I washed my baby’s cloth diapers, but washing menstrual pads seemed a bit different.
However, we lived on a tight budget, and it seemed like a way to stretch our money a bit more. So, I made the switch, and never looked back!
Ditching disposable pads reduces trash output, reduces exposure to toxic chemicals, and feels more comfortable. That’s reason enough to make the switch to cloth pads.
Between cloth pads and menstrual cups, women have no need to buy disposable menstrual products anymore. We have comfortable, toxin-free options. Now is the time to choose reusable period products more than ever!
5 Reasons Why You Should Choose Reusable Cloth Pads
The first time I used menstrual cloth pads, I felt nervous. I thought they’d leak everywhere, so I stayed home all day. They never leaked, and I discovered that I felt more comfortable. That’s all it took to hook me into using reusable pads, but there are a few clear benefits for making the switch.
1. Cloth Pads Save You Money!
Estimates say that an average woman spends up to $6,000 on menstrual products throughout her lifespan; that’s a lot of wasted money. I’m sure you have plenty of other ways you would rather spend that money. It’s a big reason why more women make the switch to menstrual cups instead of tampons.
After you put together your starting set of pads, you’ll have enough to last for years to come. Most menstrual pads last for a minimum of five years, but it’s possible that they’ll last much longer. This is an economical choice for your wallet.
2. No Toxic Chemicals in Cloth Pads
Disposable menstrual pads contain plastic, artificial fragrances, adhesives, chemical gels, and more. It makes no sense to have these toxic chemicals near one of the most sensitive parts of your body.
These chemicals have several negative side effects, such as:
- Ovarian cancer risk
- Lower fertility
- Increased risk of Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS)
When you use cloth pads, you don’t have to worry about irritating materials that expose your body to potential toxins that you should avoid. Reusable pads are made without the synthetic ingredients typically found in tampons and pads.
3. Menstrual Pads are Better for the Earth
Statistics say that an average woman uses around 16,000 tampons, pads, and panty-liners throughout their menstruating years. That’s a lot of waste that ends up in a landfill somewhere. That doesn’t include the packaging and wrappers used to ship the products.
Needless to say, disposable menstrual products have a negative impact on our environment, and we all need to play our part to take care of the Earth.
Most cloth pads use 100% cotton or sustainable cotton blends. Stay away from brands that might include nylon; natural fibers are the best bet.
4. They’re More Comfortable!
One of the biggest differences I noticed was that I felt more comfortable. Disposable pads led to irritation for me by the end of my cycle, and I was sick of that feeling every month.
Wearing reusable pads feels like wearing underwear; they’re soft and comfortable. No more itchy feeling or scratchiness that comes with plastic, disposable pads.
5. No More Loud Noises in the Bathroom
It might seem strange, but every woman knows that awkward moment in a public bathroom when you open a pad wrapper. Everyone now knows you’re on your period.
Now, having your period isn’t shameful – it’s natural and a beautiful part of being a woman. That doesn’t mean we want to let everyone know when it’s happening!
Menstrual pads are quiet and discreet. It’s particularly helpful for young people who need to change their menstrual pads in a school bathroom.
What You Need to Know When Switching to Reusable Pads
If you’re ready to make the switch, you might have some questions about how to start using menstrual pads. Here is what you need to know.
How Many Pads Do You Need?
The number of pads that you want to buy depends on a few factors, such as:
- The length of your period
- How heavy your flow is
- How often you want to wash your pads
Typically, 6-12 daytime pads and a few night pads along with a couple panty-liners works for most women. If you use them for the first time and realize you don’t have enough, that’s no big deal. Add a few more!
How to Pick the Right Types of Cloth Pads
You can find several different styles of cloth pads. There are three main groups, and it’s typically recommended that you have a bit of all of them to create your supply.
Cloth Panty-Liners
- Back-up for a period cup or a tampon
- Perfect for light flow days
- Everyday protection
Cloth Day Pads
- Standard disposable pad replacement
- Great for moderate flows
Cloth Night Pads
- Best for heavy flow days
- Works after giving birth and postpartum pads
- You typically leak out of pads.
How Do I Wash Cloth Pads?
Washing pads seem intimidating, but if you can do laundry, you can wash these. Use either the dry method or soaking method.
Keep a zippered wet bag near your toilet for used cloth pads, and at the end of your cycle, fill up a container with cold water and soak the pads for 30 minutes. Adding a pre-soak cleaner reduces stains.
Drain out the water and put them into the washing machine. This is the dry method because you aren’t soaking the pads ahead of time. If you want to use the soaking method, keep a small container of water and presoak cleaner, putting the pads into this each day. You have to change the water daily to keep odor and mildew out.
Make the Switch
If you feel unsure, my best advice is to give it a try. You’ll never know if you like cloth pads until you try them. Most people enjoy using them and stick with reusable options until they stop menstruating.
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