Gone are the days of pollution with disposable menstrual products. Alternatives like reusable menstrual pads, menstrual cups, and organic period underwear are gaining popularity all over the world.
Organic reusable pads are a great option if you want a more sustainable period. Have you thought about making the switch? Read on to learn more about this versatile period product.
What are Reusable Menstrual Pads?
Although cloth pads have become mainstream in the past couple of decades, they're far from new. Before the rise of disposable products in the twentieth century, people commonly used cotton and rags during that time of the month.
Reusable pads are menstrual pads that you can soak, wash, and use again and again. They often come in cute designs, with a wide variety of sizes and thicknesses.
Similar to disposable pads, you can buy reusable pads for your whole menstrual cycle. Use smaller pads on your light flow days, and more robust options for sleeping.
When to Change Your Pad
Everyone's flow is different, so it is important to change your pad accordingly. However, the absorbency of reusable menstrual pads may be different than what you are used to.
A good rule of thumb is to change your cloth pad as often as you would a disposable one. You can monitor your flow and adjust accordingly.
To avoid leaks and other problems, do not go more than four to six hours before changing your pad. If you wear a pad overnight, change it right when you get up in the morning, or opt for period underwear instead.
Washing Your Pads
Regular washing is one of the keys to keeping your reusable menstrual pads in good condition. By following these steps, they will be perfectly clean and ready to wear when you need them.
First, soak and rinse the pad. Use cold water so your pad doesn't stain. Warm or hot water will only set the blood stains, making it much more difficult to clean them.
If you don't want your pads to mingle with other clothes, you can hand-wash them in the sink. Make sure to use a detergent that doesn't contain harsh chemicals or fragrances.
Similar to your rinse and soak, always wash your pads in cold water. Avoid fabric softener or scent beads. These types of products can damage the pads and interfere with absorption.
Over time, you may notice the pads do not absorb as much. In this case, try stripping them. Laundry stripping is a technique that gets rid of excess detergent buildup.
Do not put your pads in the dryer. The heat can cause major shrinkage and ruin the pads. Instead, give them plenty of time to hang and air dry before reuse.
When to Replace Reusable Menstrual Pads
Reusable menstrual pads can last a long time with proper care and maintenance. Keep an eye on the condition of your pads. If there's a lot of wear and tear, or they aren't absorbing properly, then it may be time to replace them.
The lifespan of your pads depends on factors like how often you wash them, as well as your flow. In general, you can estimate that each reusable pad will last several years.
If you use reusable pads exclusively, you may need to replace them more often. However, combining them with other sustainable period products, like menstrual cups, can significantly increase their lifespan.
Benefits of Organic Reusable Pads
If you're new to the world of reusable period products, you may not understand the advantages. Organic cotton pads can be a game changer for your monthly menstrual cycle.
Live Your Values
The individual pad, tampon, or liner may not seem like a big deal, but the impact adds up quickly. A staggering 20 billion pads and tampons make their way to North American landfills every year.
Reusable menstrual pads are very eco-friendly. Since you can use them for a long time, you can avoid waste piling up in landfills or going into the ocean. If enough people choose sustainable period pads, it can make a big difference.
Spend Less Money
The cost of period products can quickly add up. Buying the same products every month for decades will put a significant dent in your bank account.
Although cloth pads can be pricier at first, they will quickly pay for themselves over time. Put the money you save into your bank account or use it for other things.
Help Those in Need
Reusable pads are also more accessible for areas with period poverty. In many parts of the world, girls and women face limitations during their periods because they can't access menstrual products.
When you buy reusable pads, it helps grow their demand and accessibility. You can even find charities online that donate cloth pads to people who need them.
Always Have Supplies
You won't find yourself running to the store because you don't have menstrual products. With cotton reusable pads, you can always have them ready to go.
Not everywhere has access to pads and tampons. You do not have to worry about on-the-fly solutions or spending unnecessary money if you have reusable pads with you at all times.
No Harmful Chemicals
Disposable period products contain quite a few chemicals to keep them absorbent and reduce the smell. These chemicals can harm your vaginal ecosystem and cause itching or irritation.
If you have a condition like eczema, disposable pads can make periods downright painful when the product rubs against your skin.
Organic pads made from cotton contain just that: cotton. Even if you don't want to fully switch to reusables, organic pads are a much healthier option than some of the popular brands.
Try Organic Reusable Pads Today
Are you ready to start using sustainable period pads? With this guide, you can feel confident about reusable period pads in your menstrual care regimen.
Your periods don't have to be costly or wasteful. Take a look around our site to learn more about our products, or contact us today with any questions you may have.