As people are becoming more and more environmentally aware, individuals have been looking for new and innovative ways to reduce their negative impact on the environment. For many people, this means assessing their common everyday habits and adjusting them in order to be more environmentally conscious.
One way in which this is achieved is by switching single use disposable pads and tampons for more ecologically friendly options. The two most popular variations for the classic pads and tampons are the menstrual cup and reusable cloth pads.
Despite the environmental and economic benefits, many individuals are hesitant to make the transition to reusable sanitary pads as they have a preconceived idea that they are hard to use, unhygienic and inconvenient, none of which is true. In order to highlight the numerous benefits of reusable sanitary pads, we have prepared a quick guide on everything that you need to know about them.
What are washable sanitary napkins?
Washable sanitary napkins are pads made out of cloth that can be washed and reused. Apart from the fact that they are reusable, there are other differences between a regular disposable menstrual pad and a reusable one.
They are both inserts that you need to place in your underwear that you need to remove after a certain amount of time. They both work to absorb any menstrual blood that you might have during your period. The main difference between the two menstrual products is the fact that one is disposable and one is reusable.
If you prefer the type of disposable pads which have wings, you will be pleased to hear that reusable pads have a similar mechanism. However, instead of the annoying adhesive that disposable pads use, cloth menstrual pads have wings that clip together, making it far easier to use.
As reusable pads are made out of cotton, they are often reported to be more comfortable than the plastic type of feel that disposable pads give wearers. They are made from more breathable material, which creates a far more comfortable pad.
Moreover, one of the benefits that you are afforded with a reusable pad that you otherwise do not get the luxury of, is the fact that you can choose from lots of different fun designs for your pad, bringing some more much needed joy into that time of the month.
Shop for washable sanitary pads
Are washable pads hygienic?
A common misconception regarding washable pads is that many people assume they are unhygienic simply because they are reusable. However, they are not more or less hygienic than the classic disposable pad. The truth is that no type of sanitary product is completely sterile, all that is required is thorough cleaning and they will remain hygienic. It is recommended to use a non-harsh laundry detergent that is approved by a dermatologist to ensure the washing process does not cause irritation.
How long do washable sanitary napkins last?
Whilst cloth reusable sanitary napkins last exponentially longer than a disposable pad which only lasts one wear, they do not last forever. If you care for them well, however, they will last longer than you probably would have first expected.
The main varying factors that dictate how long a reusable cloth pad will last is how often you use it and, like with anything else, how well you care for them. However, if cared for well and used a normal and expected amount, your washable sanitary napkins will last around 5 years.
How do reusable sanitary pads work?
If you have been wearing disposable pads for a long time and are worried about switching to reusable night and day pads, we are here to tell you that there is nothing to worry about. There is not much difference at all regarding how you wear reusable sanitary pads.
There are two main types of cotton pads, the generic type which resembles almost exactly a reusable pad in which you simply attach the pad to your underwear by using the wings and clipping mechanism. Others will have the same basic application, but will include space for an insert to be placed inside, which is what created the absorbency.
The type of pad that requires inserts comes with added benefits, as you can put more inserts into the pad depending on how heavy your flow is, ensuring that you get the protection that you need. However, in addition to this feature, most disposable pad companies recognize that every period is different and create different sizes and levels of absorbance to account for these variations.
Most sanitary products are made from cotton or some form of synthetic fabric. In addition to this main material, reusable pads also often include a variation of other materials such as wood pulp and polymer. Although this might sound alarming, these materials are simply what is also used in diapers and you can place full trust in these products as the FDA regulates the production of reusable pads.
Tips to wash washable sanitary pads
The main aspect of reusable pads that puts people off using them is the fact that they do not know how to wash the pads or are afraid of the process of washing them. In order to alleviate some of these worries, we have collated a quick guide on how you should be washing reusable pads.
Soak your pads
Soaking your pads is a step that many people think they can skip, which technically they can, they just will not have as good of an end result as those who soak the pad. Soaking the pad before you put it into the wash will help to remove those stubborn stains that menstrual blood often causes.
Our top tip for soaking your reusable pads is to do it cold water as this will help the entire process of bringing out the stain from your cloth menstrual pads. You should leave it in the cold water for around 40 minutes, but if you find that the majority of the stain is still there, we recommend draining the water, adding fresh cold water and soaking it for another 40 minutes.
Face your pads downwards
When you wash cloth pads, if you face the stained side downwards, gravity will be on your side and the stains will be removed easier. Although this might seem like a trivial extra step, it does not actually mean you have to do any extra work and it is more effective, so if you can remember and get into the habit of placing your sanitary pads face down in the water, make sure to do it.
Wait for the water to run clear
Whilst soaking your cloth menstrual pads, you want to ensure eventually the water starts to run clear. Once the water is running clear, you will know that the majority of the stain will have been removed and then can move on to the next step in cleaning your pad.
Use soap
When you wash cloth pads, in addition to soaking them to get the main bulk of the stain out, you also need to wash them with soap. It is up to you how you do this, as it can be done by hand washing them or putting them in the washing machine.
If you choose to use the washing machine, you should use hot water and wash your sanitary pad at about 40 degrees. In addition to this, you should place your pads in a wet bag. As reusable cotton pads are fairly small, placing them in a wet bag will ensure they do not get lost or stuck in any part of your dishwasher and you keep all pieces intact at all times.
Pull it into shape
This is another one of those tiny steps in the washing process that will make all the difference. Simply pulling and stretching the pad into shape will ensure that it does not shrink over time from the continuous washing and will fit you better for longer.
Drying
Although technically you can tumble dry your cotton menstrual pads, if you want a high quality finish in your washing process, we recommend air drying them. To make the process even easier, we recommend drying your pads in direct sunlight because the UV light from the sun helps prevent staining and works as a natural sanitizer.
Things to avoid when washing sanitary napkins
Just as there are some practices that will help you when cleaning and washing your sanitary napkins, there are also some things that you should try and avoid. The main one being to avoid adding anything extra into the washing process.
It can be tempting to put a load of washing detergent, stain remover and fabric softener in the washing machine when you are washing your pads, but that is actually not a great idea. Although it might make them smell wonderful, using too much product in your washing cycle can cause irritation to your skin, so it is best kept to a minimum.
What are the best reusable sanitary pads?
If we have convinced you that reusable period products are the way to go, browse our collection. Not only does Auxptitscadeaux have organic reusable pads, we also offer period underwear, which are an equally easy to use and environmentally friendly alternative to disposable pads and tampons. All our pads and underwear offer high absorbency levels.
One of the best things about our collection is that we understand that everyone has different preferences when it comes to underwear and pads. Our range offers six different styles of period underwear, all coming with three reusable pad inserts and a wash bag.
In addition to period underwear, we also offer reusable pads which come in two different sizes in order to make sure you are able to choose a size that will afford you maximum comfort. Our reusable pads also come in a range of different designs so that you can find something you like.
Reusable menstrual hygiene products
