Reusable sanitary pads

This is also called cloth menstrual pads, cloth pads, or reusable period pads. They are eco-friendly, washable alternatives to disposable pads. They’re made from soft, absorbent fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or microfiber, with layers that soak up menstrual blood. Most have wings with snaps (poppers/buttons) instead of sticky adhesive to secure them to your underwear.

They last 3–5+ years with proper care, save money over time, and reduce waste. They are comfortable, breathable, and often feel softer than disposables once you’re used to them.

Step-by-Step: How to Use Reusable Sanitary Pads

Step 1: Choose the right size/absorbency for your flow:

• Lighter days or liners: smaller/thinner pads (e.g., panty liner size).
  • Average flow: regular/medium.
  • Heavy flow or night- time: longer/thicker pads (often overnight style with extra back coverage). Many come in sets with different sizes:

(Source, Amazon.com)

Step 2: Wash your hands first for hygiene. Ensure that your hand is WASH with soap and appropriate to avoid any risk of infections.

Step 3: How to keep the pad secure:

• Fold the wings down and around the edges of your underwear.
• Snap the buttons/poppers together underneath (they click securely, no adhesive needed).
• Adjust so it’s centered and comfortable.

Step 4: Wear it like a regular pad, go about your day! Change every 4–8 hours (or sooner on heavy days) to stay fresh and prevent leaks/irritation.

Step 5: How to remove/change:

• Unsnap the wings.
• Gently peel it off.
• If out and about: Fold or roll it up (absorbent side in to contain mess), and store in a waterproof wet bag or pouch (many brands sell these , they prevent odors and leaks in your bag).

Step 6: Washing & Care Instructions

Reusable pads are easy to maintain and stay fresh/smell-free with these steps:

After use: Rinse in cold water right away (or as soon as possible) to remove blood (cold prevents setting stains). Squeeze gently — don’t rub hard. You can skip immediate rinsing and store in a wet bag until wash day if preferred.

Store between uses:  Keep used pads in a breathable or waterproof wet bag (not sealed plastic, to avoid mildew).

Wash:

• Machine wash: 30–60°C (check your brand; many are fine at 40°C) with regular detergent (no fabric softener,  it reduces absorbency).
• Hand wash option: Soak in cold/soapy water, then wash.
• Add a bit of white vinegar or oxygen-based stain remover for extra freshness/stain fighting.
• Wash with other clothes if you like , no need to separate unless very heavy soiling.

(Source: Myavni.com)

Step 7: How to Dry the reusable pad:

• Line dry in the sun (sunlight naturally disinfects and removes stains) or tumble dry on low/no heat.
• Air drying works great too.

(Source: Amiepad.ca)

How to ptore the pad clean: Once dry, fold and keep in a drawer or bag until next period.

Quick Tips on using Reusable Sanitary pads

• Start with 8–12 pads (enough for a full cycle without daily washing).
• They feel bulkier at first but get more comfortable; many say they’re softer and less irritating.
• No leaks if you change on time and match absorbency to your flow.
• If stains persist, sun drying or a pre-soak helps a lot.
• They’re hygienic when washed properly, many users report no odor issues.