Table of Contents
Best Cloth Menstrual Pads
Best Overall Reusable Pads | Most Affordable Pads | Best Organic Cloth Pads | Best New Cloth Pads |
---|---|---|---|
Wegreeco | Dutchess | Hesta Organic | Simfamily |
Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
What are the Best Cloth Menstrual Pads?
It’s an important question! You may want to make the switch to reusable cloth pads because they’re cheaper, more eco-friendly, and can reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals. But, which ones are the best reusable pads? Find out the best choice here!
We’ll give you all the details you need to know about our picks for the best cloth pads to help you choose the right one:
- Wegreeco Reusable Sanitary Pad
- Gladrags Organic Pads
- LBB Reusable, Washable Cloth Pads
- Dutchess Cloth Menstrual Pads
- Majestic Diva Bamboo Reusable Sanitary Pads
- Morxy Bamboo Reusable Cloth Pads
- Simfamily Reusable Menstrual Pads
- Party in My Pants Reusable Pads
- Ma Petite Chou Reusable Cloth Pads
- Charlie Banana Feminine Pads
- Lunapads Cloth Menstrual Pads
- Interlabial Pads
If pressed for our top pick, we’d probably go with Wegreeco. They’re very reasonably priced, and have some of the best customer ratings and reviews in the category. Learn more about Wegreeco Pads on Amazon.
It can be difficult to find reusable cloth menstrual pads in stores, which is why we recommend shopping online. You can check out some of our top-rated reusable cloth pads here:
What are Cloth Menstrual Pads?
Okay, so before we get into the details, you might be wondering about what they are! We’ll give you a quick rundown of what you need to know.
During your period, you have a few different options to absorb menstrual fluid. The main ones are
- Tampons and menstrual cups (worn internally)
- Disposable pads, and cloth menstrual pads (worn externally)
Disposable pads are made from cotton and plastic and have a sticky backing to them which helps them to stick in your underwear.
They are very similar in design, but they are made from cloth and other natural materials. They stick in place on your underwear by snaps on the wings.
Three Important Questions…
Before anything else, let us ask you three important questions:
- Does heavy menstrual flow give you stress because of leaks and stains?
- Is your bank account exhausted because you keep on buying expensive pads month after month?
- Are you worried about your health and the environment because of the current tampons or pads you’re using?
If your answer to all three questions is a big YES, we can help you address those issues with one of these best reusable cloth pads.
Why Make the Switch to Cloth Menstrual Pads?
Why cloth menstrual pads? There are lots of reasons why you might want to consider them!
The first thing you must do is change to something more practical, safe to use, more comfortable and eco-friendly. It just makes sense to make the switch from disposable feminine hygiene products to reusables. We’ll help you get there with our top recommendations.
Our Top 5 Menstrual Cloth Pads have everything it takes to achieve total comfort and protection during your menstrual cycle, especially during heavy flow. Are you ready for some period awesome?
Keep on reading to find out the best cloth pads that we recommend.
Washable Cloth Pads = A Ton of Benefits
Each cloth pad in our list promises affordability, ease of use, convenience and environmental friendliness. They are washable so no worries about adding waste to the landfill that can be harmful for the environment.
There’s also no need to buy pads every month. You just have to wash them and then keep them in your drawer until next month.
These Top 5 Menstrual Cloth Pads in our list vary in sizes, features, designs and prices. However, they provide the same financial, ecological and health benefits.
We arranged our products from the most affordable to the most expensive product. Read on and discover the cloth pads that meet all your menstrual needs, requirements and preferences.
Keep reading for our reviews of the Top 5 Cloth Menstrual Pads!
How Do We Choose the Best Reusable Pads?
That’s a great question! You’ll probably want to know how we came up with this list of the best reusable pads for you to choose from. Here’s how we do it:
- We scour the reviews on Amazon, mainly looking at the 3-4 star reviews because they give the most accurate picture of the pros and cons of an item.
- We then see what other bloggers and people online are saying.
- Next, we check out the company website and Amazon description very carefully to see what we can uncover. Price is definitely a factor at this point, as we try to choose products that offer the best value for your money.
- Finally, we try them out for ourselves and see how it goes. Sometimes we get free products from companies, but sometimes we pay for them. Either way, it has no impact on our review of them.
- After that? We make the list of the best products to try out.
#1: Wegreeco Bamboo Reusable Pads
We placed the Wegreeco Bamboo Reusable Cloth Pads in the No. 1 spot because it is the most affordable of all the five products, depending on the size.
It’s so easy to place and use these sanitary cloth pads. You just have to simply snap one into your underwear. And like the regular disposable pad you use, change these cloth pads according to your need.
The difference is that, you need not dispose or throw each pad as you can wash and dry it along with your other clothes.
Wide Variety of Size Options
The Wegreeco Pads come in small, medium and large sizes, so you are guaranteed of comfort and convenience while you a pad snapped in your underwear. That’s why we’ve chosen them as one our best reusable pads.
Here’s the better news! During your heavy-flow days, this product has overnight pads to keep you worry-free during the cycle (or you could also pair with a menstrual cup such as the Lunette Cup).
- FOUR SIZE AVAILABLE,small size length 8 linch X width (including wings) 7 inch, middle size length...
- LOVELY PRINT LEAK-FREE OUTER of Cloth Sanitary Napkin and comfort of the softer, Bamboo layer...
- CHARCOAL BAMBOO INNER LAYERS of these cloth menstrual pads is soft with maximum and have a stay dry...
- GREAT CHOICE FOR GIRL & WOMEN. Reusable and Sustainable. HUGE convenience to be made by using HEAVY...
- TWO SNAPS DESIGN for better fasten the pads around your underwear and make it more security.Change...
More Information and Where to Buy the Best Reusable Pads
See: Full Review of the Wegreeco Bamboo Reusable Pads.
All these reasons make Wegreeco an obvious pick for #1 on our list of Top 5 Cloth Menstrual Pads. Buy the Wegreeco Cloth Pads today:
Wegreeco Cloth Pad Review
#2: LBB Reusable Washable Pads
Who will ever feel comfortable with their menstrual cycle, all the stains and leaks, all on top of the painful cramps? Not unless you put a washable menstrual pad on! They feel great against your skin, save you money, and are also amazing for the environment. Reusable pads are a game-changer and it’s our mission to share this feminine hygiene awesome with the world!
These eco-friendly period products are now readily available and many of them are reusable. And, since washable menstrual pads now designed to be breathable, and organic, it’s possible to not be so uncomfortable during that time of the month. If you have sensitive skin, and find that disposable sanitary pads irritate it, then check out reusable feminine pads. No more irritation or rashes.
Let’s get into more details about the LBB Cloth Reusable Pads, and whether or not these reusable period pads are a good choice for you.
Keep on reading for the full review of these popular reusable cloth pads, or have a look for yourself over on Amazon:
LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads for a Happy Period
The LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads usually come in a set of 3 for a very reasonable price. because of the comfort and convenience it provides every user. At only a few dollars per pad, they’re also cheaper than most other cloth menstrual pads on the market today.
A highly-rated product at a very reasonable price? We love that here at Reusable Menstrual Cups!
One of the best things about these LBB reusable pads is that they have a super absorbent feature. This helps to lessens the possibility of leaks and stains. These washable period pads are made of very soft materials that are extremely comfortable next to your skin. This is true even when they’re a little bit wet.
Try them out for yourself and see: the LBB Reusable Pads are more comfortable to wear than disposable sanitary napkins.
Save and Reuse with the LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads
Because the LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads are washable, you can save some serious money when compared to disposable feminine hygiene products. And the easy-washing feature makes them easy to keep looking clean and new.
There’s no need for special instructions as the pads are so easy to clip on the underwear. They also have wings with snaps to make sure that the pad stays in place and that there are no embarrassing leaks out the sides. Undeniably, this set of washable menstrual pads is worth its cost.
What People are Saying About LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads:
“These are really nice cloth pads. I’ve been using them for a couple months, and so far, they have been amazing. The lining is soft and comfortable, plus they are very absorbent. More than I thought a cloth pad would be actually.”
“I originally bought these for myself, but my teen daughter’s cycle started before mine, and she decided to try one, she loved them and I ended up having to give them to her.”
“These washable menstrual pads are such a great product. Reusable pads feel drier because they absorb better than disposable pads; plus they are not irritating. These ones wash up nice too for whatever reason. I expected them to stain but with a wee bit of stain remover and a regular wash cycle, they came out looking brand new.”
LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads Pros:
- A set of 3 so there are extra pads for heavy flow
- Easy-washing pads for the next use
- Made of materials that truly absorb
- Leakproof backing for extra protection
- Great for the environement
- Save money-disposable pads are expensive!
- Feels great against your body
- No harsh chemicals, pesticides or dyes
LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads Cons:
- Thinness has the tendency for leaks and stains.
- A few complaints about not staying in place
- Some comments about possibility of discomfort
The Takeaway on the LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads:
LBB reusable cloth pads are a great value for the money and we give them our two-thumbs up here at Reusable Menstrual Cups.
Imagine! With just so little to spend, you are treated to a hassle-free menstrual cycle. What’s more comfortable than an 8-inch long pad that’s breathable and soft? The LBB Reusable Washable Menstrual Pads are a top-quality cloth pad at a very reasonable price.
We love that their easy-absorbent feature helps control leaks and stains. And because you are spared from such embarrassments and discomfort, you will always have a happy period with these highly-rated menstrual pads!
Shop now on Amazon to experience a more comfortable, economical period with these reusable feminine pads.
#3: Dutchess Cloth Menstrual Pad
Dutchess Cloth pads are one of our favourites on this list. They’re a very reasonably priced alternative to some of the ridiculously expensive pads. But, they actually seem to work quite well and not leak like crazy.
3 Reason to Try Duchess Cloth Pads
We’re giving you three good reasons to opt for the Dutchess Cloth Menstrual Pad.
First is huge savings on your money.
Second is your ability to help save the environment.
And third, you are guaranteed of zero-chemical so you are saved from any negative impact on your health.
The Dutches Cloth Menstrual Pads are an excellent choice when it comes to reusable cloth pads. They are guaranteed comfortable to wear, not to mention very affordable.
- HEAVY FLOW / OVERNIGHT Protection for those heavy days and nights when needing extra security and...
- ESSENTIAL for savvy eco-conscious women. Reusable, and Sustainable. HUGE savings to be made by using...
- DOUBLE CHARCOAL BAMBOO LAYERS of these cloth menstrual pads is soft with maximum absorbency. Eco...
- FEEL SECURE - the waterproof outer layer and comfort of the softer, cotton microfleece layers...
- MACHINE WASHABLE - Better for your Body than Tampons and Paper Pads! No chemicals! Fold over, snap...
More Information and Where to Buy these Cheap Cloth Pads
You can easily purchase them Amazon today. Click the button below to find out more, and also to see if this product is eligible for free shipping with a Prime membership:
#4: Majestic Diva Bamboo Menstrual Cloth Pads
Are you experiencing heavy flow during the first couple of days of your menstrual cycle? Then you’ll need to consider the Majestic Diva Bamboo Menstrual Cloth Pads.
They take fourth spot on our list of the Top 5 Cloth Menstrual Pads because they have some excellent user reviews.
These top-quality cloth pads are made for you and all the other people who bleed profusely.
Set of 5: All you Need for your Period
You can buy Majestic Diva Cloth pads in a set of five. We find this to be the ideal amount to get through your period in style. Pair these pads with a menstrual cup for even better protection on those heavy flow days.
Made of 100% bamboo, this product has a five-layer feature that guarantees you protection, especially on your heavy-flow days. Any woman who opts for this product is offered total comfort.
Other than the five-layer protection, the Majestic Diva pads can be cleaned through washing. This does not require you anymore to spend extra for another set for in time for your next period cycle.
Many Uses Beyond Just Menstruation
What makes this a bestselling product is that these cloth pads are designed not just for your period. They can be used for postpartum bleeding, as well.
Anyone suffering from urinary incontinence, or with heavy vaginal discharge can also depend on the Majestic Diva cloth pads, too. They’re soft, comfortable and people really seem to love them.
More Information and Where to Buy these Waterproof Pads
The Majestic Diva Bamboo Menstrual Cloth Pads can be easily purchase on Amazon today:
#5: Morxy Bamboo Reusable Sanitary Cloth Pads
The Morxy Bamboo Reusable Sanitary Cloth Pads are up next.
Like our third and fourth in the list, this product is affordably priced. With such a reasonable cost, you get a pack of six all-natural menstrual pads.
Since each cloth period pad has a layered bamboo, it has strong fluid absorbency. The same bamboo material in each pad offers a waterproof support, as well.
Washable and Reusable
And since the pads are made of cloth and washable, you can definitely reuse them. These qualities make them a natural fit for our list of the best reusable menstrual pads.
Washing the Morxy cloth pads for reusing is so easy. You can simply wash it along with your other underwear pieces and clothes. And, since this product is all-natural, you are able to help save the environment from tons of toxins that can be hazardous, not just for humans, but Mother Earth, as well.
More Details and Where to Buy Morxy Bamboo Pads
See: Full Review of the Morxy Bamboo Reusable Sanitary Cloth Pads.
You can easily buy the Morxy Bamboo Reusable Sanitary Cloth Pads on Amazon.
Morxy Reusable Cloth Pads Review
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=axHlGufe85c&t=1s
#6: Simfamily Washable Resuable Cloth Pads
A new addition to our list of the best cloth pads are these ones from Simfamily. They made the list because of their very reasonable price. They’re actually some of the cheapest ones you can buy, but the quality is still decent.
Range of Size and Absorbency Options
There is a nice range of size options, from pantyliners to heavy/overnight pads. They come in a variety of colours and patterns as well.
Simfamily pads contain a waterproof outer layer, organic bamboo middle layer that absorbs well and traps odours and then a microfleece layer next to the skin.
More Details and Where to Buy these Cloth Pads
Just head over to Amazon and shop now. Click the button below to check for the best prices and also to see if this product is eligible for fast, free shipping with a Prime membership:
#7: Party in my Pants Reusable Pads
Another great option for reusable pads for menstrual fluid, incontinence, or vaginal discharge are these ones from Party in My Pants (PIMPS). They come in a wide range of sizes, styles and colour options. The best part? The fun and cute designs!
They’re handmade in the USA from premium materials, are thin and comfortable and can last for up to five years with proper care and cleaning.
Learn more about Party in My Pants here:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I6dUAngRJiM&t=4s
#8: Ma Petite Chou
Another option for reusable menstrual pads is Ma Petite Chou. The name is a French term of endearment, and it also happens to be the company behind these top-quality reusable pads.
They’re thin, but very absorbent and don’t seem to leak for most people. For the price, they have some excellent customer ratings and reviews on Amazon.
We LOVE that they’re made in the UK and can offer a healthier, more eco-friendly alternative to disposable products.
More Information and Where to Buy
If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to something like Party in My Pants, you may want to consider Ma Petite Chou pads.
Although they can be a bit difficult to find outside of the UK, you can get them on most Amazon marketplace’s around the world. You can find them on Amazon here:
#9: Charlie Banana Feminine Pads
If you’re looking for some top-of-the-line, but affordable reusable feminine pads, then look no further than Charlie Banana. The company makes an impressive line of eco-friendly products for moms and babies, and are perhaps most well-known for their cloth diapers and accessories to go along with them.
A More Affordable Cloth Pad Option
As far a their reusable cloth pads go, they are much cheaper than some of the other options on the list. But, they work very well at preventing leaks, which after all, is what you want in a sanitary pad. These pads come in a nice range of sizes and colour options.
In short, there isn’t much not to love about them!
Excellent Customer Reviews
Online, these cloth pads have some excellent customer ratings and reviews. You can check some of them out for yourself here:
“I have super-heavy periods and didn’t think that a cloth pad would be absorbent enough. Charlie Banana proved me wrong and I never have leaks with these things, even overnight. I’m impressed!”
“I’m currently using these cloth pads for post-partum bleeding and find that they’re just so much more comfortable than disposables. My sensitive skin loves them.”
Where to Buy Them
If you’re looking for some more details about these eco-friendly feminine pads, you’ll want to check this out: Review of Charlie Banana Cloth Pads.
Or, head over to Amazon to take a look for yourself:
#10: Lunapads
Another excellent option for cloth menstrual pads are these ones from Lunapads. The company is based in Vancouver, Canada and the pads are ethically made there as well.
The thing we love most about Luna Pads is that the company is committed to helping young girls in need around the world. They’re donated more than 100,000 pads and period panties to people in more than 17 countries, and have also helped other organizations get started with similar programs.
2 Styles of Cloth Pads
As far as their pads go, they have two different styles.
Their older, classic version consists of a stand-alone pad, along with an optional insert for heavier flow days. This is a nice way to turn a regular pad into a heavy one.
Their newer cloth pad is more like most of the other options on the market. It’s a pad by itself and it comes in a wide variety of absorbency levels and sizes.
Where to Buy Luna Pads
For more details about this company making a difference in our world, you’ll want to check out our: Luna Pads Review. Or, head over to Amazon to find out more for yourself:
#11: Interlabial Pads
An interesting option for eco-friendly period protection are interlabial pads. They’re just like they sound! A pad that fits under your labia. Unlike regular cloth pads, there are no snaps, and they don’t attach to your underwear.
Okay, I know what you might be thinking right now. Why would anyone want to use these?
The main reason you might want to use them is if you don’t use a tampon or menstrual cup and have fluid that gushes out when your flow is very heavy.
Another situation that you might want to use Interlabial pads for is if you regularly lay on your back with your knees up. In this situation, you may find that menstrual fluid drains out of your butt crack and stains your clothes and bed sheets.
Interlabial pads can help to prevent this. However, they only offer some light protection, at best, so it’s recommended to use them with another form of protection.
Learn more about Intralabial Pads
More more details, check out our full review of Interlabial Pads, or have a look over on Amazon:
Cloth Pad Care and Cleaning
So you’ve found your pick from our list of the Top 5 Cloth Menstrual Pads? Here’s how you care for them! Read more for our tips and tricks.
Cloth pads are a bit more expensive than disposables in the short to medium-term. That’s why it makes sense to take care of them and get them to last as long as possible.
The good news is that it’s pretty easy to take care of reusable menstrual pads.
Most people throw reusable cloth pads in with their regular laundry. You’ll have the best results if you wash them in cold water, since hot water can set the stains. Then, hang dry to reduce staining, and also wear and tear on your cloth pads.
What about Cloth Menstrual Pad Staining?
If you don’t care about stains, that’s it! If you do, you have a couple of options:
- Soak your cloth menstrual pad in some cold water before laundering. You should do this as soon as you remove it, before the menstrual fluid dries.
- Use commercial stain remover.
- Remember, the best cloth pads are made from stain-resistant material, so if you care about this, you may want to spend a bit more on a top-quality cloth menstrual pad
For more details about this, check out: Cloth Pad Care and Cleaning.
How to Wash Reusable Pads
How to Wash Cloth Menstrual Pads by Hand?
You’ve made your pick from out list of the Top 5 Cloth Menstrual Pads? Now, how do you wash them by hand? Here are a few quick tips.
In general, it’s easier to just throw cloth pads in the machine with your regular laundry. They’re for the most part, quite durable and don’t really need to be washed by hand, or on the delicate cycle.
That said, if you do want to wash reusable menstrual pads by hand, you can do the following:
- Fill up a sink or bucket with cold water.
- Add a bit of laundry soap (liquid works best)
- Swish the pads around, making sure to soak them through very well.
- Get a scrub brush (one you use for your nails works well) and pay careful attention to any staining.
- Rinse extremely well. Soap residue won’t feel nice the next time you wear them. The water should run clear.
- Squeeze out excess liquid.
- Hang to dry.
Wash Reusable Cloth Pads by Hand
What is the Detergent for Cloth Pads?
One of our top picks for laundry detergentis from the Honest Company. You can use it both for machine washing, or a small amount to wash your cloth pads by hand.
Here are a few of the reasons why we personally use Honest Laundry Detergent:
- All-natural, plant derived cleaner with stain fighting enzymes
- Hypoallergenic and perfect for people with sensitive skin
- Fresh, clean scent
- Certified, bio-based ingredients.
Best of all, a mild laundry detergent like this one will keep your menstrual pads in top shape. They’ll last longer because they’re not getting hit with harsh chemicals every single time you wash them.
Remember, for best results, wash them in cold water and hang to dry. This way, you’ll get the maximum amount of life from them.
You can check out the best detergent for cloth pads over on Amazon:
What are the Best Reusable Menstrual Pads?
Best Cloth Menstrual Pads
Best Overall Reusable Pads | Most Affordable Pads | Best Organic Cloth Pads | Best New Cloth Pads |
---|---|---|---|
Wegreeco | Dutchess | Hesta Organic | Simfamily |
Check Price | Check Price | Check Price | Check Price |
Away From Home: All About Cloth Menstrual Pad Wet Bags
Women who’ve never used reusable menstrual pads often wonder what you do with them when you’re not at home. If they’re soiled, and you have to change them, what do you with that old pad?
Some people put it into something like a Ziplock bag. But of course, this isn’t that nice to have in your purse, particularly if you’re pulling something out and someone sees it!
A better option is a wet bag that is specifically designed to carry soiled cloth pads. They are waterproof and leakproof so the rest of the things in your purse or backpack are safe. They’re also not clear, so even if someone sees your wet bag, they won’t know what’s in it.
You can check out our full review of one of the most popular cloth menstrual pad wet bags:
The Dutchess Wet Bag Full Review.
Another quick tip is to find a public bathroom that is actually more like your bathroom at home. By this I mean a bathroom with a private room with a toilet and sink. You’ll find clean-up is much easier in this case.
Are Reusable Cloth Menstrual Pads Expensive?
A common question that people have is whether or not reusable cloth pads are expensive. In general, they cost around $5 per pad, while the organic ones can be double, or even triple that amount.
Of course, you can make your own more cheaply than that, but that assumes skills and motivation (I lack both!).
Let’s compare this to disposable sanitary pads. If you have a heavy, long or irregular period, then you’ll probably spend at least $5 a month on them.
How Many Cloth Pads Do I Need for my Period?
A common question that people have is how many reusable menstrual pads they need to get through their period. It really depends on how heavy your flow is, as well as how often you do laundry. However, here’s some general advice about how many reusable pads you need.
Most people need 5-6 cloth menstrual pads to get through their period. You can get away with fewer if you have a very light period, or do laundry quite frequently.
How Many Reusable Pads for Incontinence?
If you use reusable cloth pads for incontinence issues, then you’ll perhaps need more, or less depending on your situation. You might have very few problems and wear the same pad for the entire day.
In this case, you’d need only a few of them, depending on how often you do laundry.
If you change out your pad multiple times a day, then you might need more than 20 of them.
The best advice we can give you when making the switch from disposable to reusable pads is to start small. Buy 4-5 of them and see if that works. If not, buy a few more and see if you’re running out. You WILL eventually have the exact right amount. It also doesn’t hurt to have a couple extras hanging around because they do wear out eventually.
Expensive? Just in the Short-Term
For the sake of comparison, let’s assume 6 pads at $7/pad, which is $42. Compared to disposables at $5/month, you’ll recoup your costs in 8-9 months.
Are washable menstrual pads expensive? In the short-term, yes. But, in the medium to long-term, no. You’ll actually save a lot of money when you consider that the best cloth pads can last for 5-10 years.
If you’re all about the frugal living, then reusable period products like menstrual cups, and cloth pads can go a long way towards saving you thousands of dollars over a lifetime. Of course, make the switch early for the best results.
Are there Any Negatives to Reusable Menstrual Pads?
Before you buy reusable cloth menstrual pads, it makes sense to find out if there any reasons NOT to buy them.
The good news is that washable cloth pads are a solid product and most people are pretty happy with them. However, there are a few things you should be aware of.
Less Absorbent than Disposables
Disposable sanitary pads are very absorbent. They’re also great at keeping the fluid away from your skin. They’re also not great for the environment, your health, and bank account.
That’s why you might make the switch to reusable menstrual pads, even though they are a little bit less absorbent. Most people use them with a menstrual cup or tampons, so find that this isn’t really an issue though.
Can Shift Around
Disposable menstrual pads stick to your underwear really well! Cloth pads have no sticky tape on the back, so rely on the snaps on the wings to do this.
In general, this works well enough for most people. However, if you’re exercising, you may prefer a disposable pad because they stay in place better.
A good solution is to keep a box of disposables in your cupboard for when you exercise, but then use reusable cloth menstrual pads for everyday use.
If you’re worried about this, you may consider period panties instead. They can serve much the same function (get the absorbent ones instead of the ones with only a leakproof layer) but stay in place the same as a regular pair of underwear would.
Costs More in the Short-Term
As mentioned in the previous section, the best cloth pads are a little bit expensive. This is true especially if you stick with the organic cloth menstrual pads (Hesta Organic, or GladRags).
However, in less than a year, you’ll recoup your costs when compared to disposable sanitary napkins. It’ll be an even shorter amount of time if you have a very heavy and/or long period. Or, if you need to wear them all the time if you have some incontinence issues.
The Blood Factor
When you use disposable feminine hygiene products, it’s pretty easy to be disconnected from your period. You just throw the used tampon or pad in the trash, and don’t have second thought about it. However, when you use reusable products, you will certainly get blood or menstrual fluid on your hands.
Is it a big deal? Most people find that it’s not. You’ll get used to it after a while.
The Sweaty Factor
Cloth pads are made from a variety of materials including flannel, fleece, bamboo, minky, charcoal, cotton, terrycloth, etc. The choice of materials has a big impact on whether they’ll be hot and sweaty, or not. Check customer reviews carefully for help in deciding which ones might work for you.
Pair Reusable Pads With a Menstrual Cup
If you’re looking for the best in eco-friendly period protection, then we recommending using cloth menstrual pads along with a menstrual cup.
In case you don’t know what they are, menstrual cups are bell-shaped cylinders that are designed to replace tampons. They are usually made from medical grade silicone, and range from very soft to very firm.
Menstrual Cups are better than tampons for a number of reasons, including the following:
- Better for the environment. One period cup can replace thousands of tampons.
- Save money—thousands of dollars over a lifetime
- Better for your health. Have a toxic chemical free period experience
- Reduce your risk of toxic shock syndrome.
Do You Have a Heavy Period?
If you have a heavy period, then you’ll want to consider switching from tampons to a menstrual cup. Even jumbo tampons only hold 10 ml, while an average cup can hold 30 ml. There are even some high-capacity menstrual cups that can hold up to 42 ml.
You might actually be able to sleep through the night when pairing your reusable menstrual pads with a menstrual cup. Finally!
What is the Best Menstrual Cup?
The best menstrual cup really does depend on your body type. There are two main factors to consider:
- Cervix Height (high/medium/low), which influences menstrual cup length.
- Have you given birth vaginally? If yes, you’ll need a bigger diameter cup.
There are more than a hundred menstrual cups on Amazon. It can be hard to find the best one to match up with your reusable cloth pad. That’s why we recommend taking our menstrual cup quiz.
There are 5 simple questions that will only take a minute or two. At the end, you’ll get a recommendation for the best menstrual cup for your body type. Check it out here:
Reusable Pads: Not just for Periods
They’re not just for periods! There are a few other reasons why you might consider using cloth pads, including incontinence, vaginal discharge and postpartum bleeding.
Use for Incontinence
Reusable pads also make an excellent choice for people with incontinence. This is particularly true because if you suffer from incontinence, you’ll probably need protection every day. So you’ll want to seriously consider getting a few of the best reusable pads from our list.
Using disposables can get expensive, and it also creates a lot of non-biodegradable waste. It makes sense to go green with some of these Top 5 Eco-Friendly Incontinence Products (cloth pads are on the list!).
What are the Best Reusable Pads for Incontinence?
Here are a few features of these best cloth pads for incontinence:
- Made from organic cotton
- Thin and soft so that they feel comfortable and stay in place well
- 6 layers of absorbent organic cotton
- Waterproof layer that isn’t crunchy, and also doesn’t lose its’ properties, even when washed at high temperatures
- Made for maximum airflow so that you’ll stay cool and dry
- Can last for 2-3 years if you care for them properly
- Various size and colour options.
For an organic product, they’re very reasonably priced, considering that they come in a pack of three. You can check out these reusable pads for incontinence over on Amazon:
For Vaginal Discharge
If you use pads or pantyliners for vaginal discharge, then you’ll need to consider reusables. But first of all, if you find yourself using pads all the time for discharge, go see your doctor. There probably is a solution. Your vagina likes to breathe, but it’s hard to do this when you’re wearing pads all the time (even cloth ones).
Besides that, consider making the switch from disposable pantyliners to reusable cloth pads. They’re cheaper, better for the environment and also reduce your exposure to toxic chemicals.
What are the Best Cloth Pads for Vaginal Discharge?
Dutchess pads are very soft and comfortable to wear, and best of all, they stay in place well. This is a common complaint about some brands of reusable pantyliners. Most people love the waterproof layer in them that prevents leaks.
We love the design and colours of these reusable cloth pads for discharge that are great at hiding stains. If you’re looking for an economical, reusable pantyliner for vaginal discharge issues, then you’ll want to check out Dutchess Pantyliners over on Amazon:
What are the Best Cloth Pads for Post Partum Bleeding?
Post Partum bleeding is quite normal. For more details, you’ll want to check out the following information from WebMD. Bleeding is heaviest in the first few days following birth, and you’ll want to use a very heavy pad.
Most people use hospital-grade disposable pads, but you could also use some heavy/overnight ones. My favourite recommendation for pads for postpartum bleeding are these Glad Rags Nighttime Cloth Pads
Here are some of the reasons that you might consider Glad Rags Organic Pads for postpartum bleeding:
- Glad Rags Pads consist of a holder and two pads. You can use one pad for a lighter flow, and two pads for a heavier flow.
- They are extra long and wide in order to protect against leaking.
- Ultra-soft flannel that is very comfortable and layers of cotton to keep you dry.
- No plastic for maximum breathability
You can check out Glad Rags Nighttime/Postpartum pads over on Amazon:
These overnight pads from Gladrags are also one of the best cloth pads for heavy flow. Check them out for yourself and see.
Can Teenagers Use Cloth Pads?
If you’re a tween, or teen, you may wonder whether or not reusable menstrual pads are a good option for you. The good news is that yes, they are a great choice.
Although most teenagers use disposables, reusable products like these cloth menstrual pads are a great choice for your body, the environment and also your bank account.
Start early with reusable menstrual products such as cloth pads for maximum savings, and environmental benefits.
For more details, check this out: The Best Period Products for Teens.
What about Cloth Menstrual Pads for Swimming?
As far as we know, there are no reusable menstrual pads for swimming. We recommend that you use some form of internal protection like a tampon or menstrual cup for this.
If you do try to swim with a reusable cloth pad, you’ll have much the same results as with a disposable sanitary pad: A soggy, dripping mess.
Trust on this one: it won’t work!
Instead, consider Modibodi Swimwear. You’ll get the same absorbency level as reusable cloth pads, minus all the soggy mess!
Can I make Cloth Menstrual Pads?
If you’re handy at sewing, you may want to know whether or not you can make your own reusable menstrual pads. It’s definitely possible to do this. Have a look over on Pinterest for some patterns.
In general, you’ll need the following materials to make your own cloth pads:
- Cotton print (wrapper part of liner)
- Cotton inner (you can use an old t-shirt)
- A cotton topper (thin white broadcloth works well)
Or, you can go a bit more high-tech and use the following materials:
- Moisture barrier (PUL fabric)
- Wicking fabric that keep moisture away from the skin (athletic jersey works well)
- Absorbent fabric (hemp fleece)
How to Sew your Own Reusable Pads
Top 5 Cloth Menstrual Pads: Have your Say
What’s your favourite cloth menstrual pad? Is it on our list of the Top 5 Cloth Menstrual Pads?
Leave a comment below and let us know. Or, do you go with disposable sanitary napkins?
And don’t forget to share this article on Facebook, Twitter, or Pinterest.
Last update on 2021-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API