The Truth About Eco-Friendly Menstrual Pads: Are They Worth It?

 

As sustainability and eco-conscious living continue to rise in popularity, many people are opting for reusable menstrual products as an alternative to disposable options. Among these, cloth pads have gained widespread attention for their comfort, eco-friendliness, and long-term cost savings. Whether you're interested in a DIY project or trying to find the best cloth pads available on the market, this comprehensive guide will provide all the information you need. From making your own cloth pads to selecting the right ones for your unique needs, you’ll discover how cloth pads can fit seamlessly into your lifestyle.

 

Cloth pads are an excellent alternative to traditional single-use menstrual products like disposable pads and tampons. There are numerous reasons why more people are making the switch. One of the primary benefits is that cloth pads are eco-friendly. Disposable pads contribute significantly to landfill waste and can take hundreds of years to decompose. In contrast, cloth pads are reusable for several years, which drastically reduces their environmental impact. As part of the zero-waste movement, using cloth pads eliminates the need for plastic packaging and non-biodegradable materials commonly found in disposable products.

 

Cloth pads also offer significant cost savings. While the initial investment in reusable cloth pads might seem higher than buying disposables, the pads quickly pay for themselves over time because they can be reused for years. Users also report that cloth pads tend to be more comfortable than their plastic counterparts, providing greater breathability and reducing irritation or rashes. Moreover, if you choose to make your own cloth pads, you can completely customise the absorbency, shape, and fabric to suit your specific preferences.

 

One of the best aspects of cloth pads is the ability to make them yourself, especially if you enjoy DIY projects. Crafting your own cloth pads can be a rewarding and cost-effective solution. To get started, you’ll need several materials, including a soft, absorbent top layer made from fabrics like cotton flannel, bamboo, or jersey knit. The absorbent core can be constructed using layers of cotton terry, hemp, or even old towels or fleece. For the backing layer, a waterproof fabric like PUL (Polyurethane Laminate) or fleece is essential to prevent leaks. Fleece is breathable, while PUL provides a waterproof barrier but is less breathable. You will also need plastic snaps or buttons to secure the pad around your underwear, as well as basic sewing tools such as scissors, pins, fabric markers, thread, and a sewing machine.

 

To make cloth pads, you can start by finding or creating a sewing pattern. Many free patterns are available online, or, if you’re confident in your sewing skills, you can create your own based on your desired size and shape. Once you have your pattern, use it to cut out the top layer, absorbent core, and backing layer. Assemble the layers by placing the absorbent core between the top and backing fabrics and pinning them together. Sew around the edges, leaving a small gap to turn the fabric right side out. After turning the pad right side out, topstitch around the entire pad to close the gap and secure the layers. Finally, add plastic snaps to the wings so the pad can be fastened securely around your underwear.

 

If DIY projects aren’t your style, or if you’re looking to buy cloth pads, the market offers a wide variety of options. Several factors should be considered when choosing the best cloth pads for your needs, such as absorbency, fabrics, size, shape, and fastenings. Cloth pads, like disposables, come in different absorbency levels. Liners are ideal for light flow or spotting, while regular pads work well for medium flow during the day. Heavy-flow pads are designed for overnight use or for those who experience heavier periods.

 

When it comes to fabric choices, many options are available. Flannel is a popular choice for the top layer because it is soft and absorbent. Bamboo is known for its softness, antibacterial properties, and excellent absorbency, making it an ideal fabric for cloth pads. Hemp is another highly absorbent material that is often used for heavy-flow pads, while cotton jersey is smooth and breathable, making it perfect for those with sensitive skin. The backing layer, which helps prevent leaks, is often made from PUL or fleece.

 

Cloth pads come in various sizes and shapes, typically measured by length. Shorter pads are suitable for light flow, while longer pads provide more coverage and protection for heavy flow or overnight use. Some cloth pads are designed with extra wings or contoured shapes to ensure a better fit and to prevent leaks. Additionally, most cloth pads use snaps to secure them around the underwear, as snaps tend to be more durable and comfortable than Velcro, which can wear out over time and irritate the skin. Pads with wings offer extra protection against leaks and shifting, whereas wingless designs may feel less secure.

 

Several well-known brands produce eco-friendly cloth pads, each offering unique features in terms of comfort, absorbency, and design. GladRags, for instance, is one of the most well-known cloth pad brands. They offer pads in various sizes and absorbency levels, with fun patterns and kits for beginners. Lunapads, now rebranded as Aisle, is another popular brand offering a range of organic cotton pads with leak-resistant layers. These pads are particularly great for heavy flow and overnight use. Tree Hugger Cloth Pads are renowned for their soft bamboo velour top layer and their commitment to eco-conscious initiatives, such as planting trees. Party In My Pants is a brand known for its quirky designs and slim, lightweight pads that still provide excellent absorbency.

 

If you're new to cloth pads, transitioning can seem overwhelming at first. There are a few tips that can make the process easier. Pre-washing new pads a few times before use can increase their absorbency. When you're out and about, store used pads in a waterproof wet bag until you're ready to wash them. On heavier flow days, you can layer two pads together or use an extra insert for added absorbency. Choosing darker or patterned fabrics for the top layer of your pads can also help to hide stains more easily.

 

Proper care is essential to keep your cloth pads clean, fresh, and stain-free. After use, rinse the pad in cold water to prevent stains from setting. You can then soak the used pads in cold water or a mixture of water and baking soda until you're ready to wash them. Machine washing your pads with mild detergent is recommended, but avoid using fabric softeners, as they can reduce the absorbency of the pads. While air drying is ideal for prolonging the life of your pads, you can also tumble dry them on low heat if necessary. For stain removal, applying lemon juice and leaving the pad in the sun can naturally bleach out any discolouration, while soaking pads in diluted hydrogen peroxide is an effective method for tougher stains. To prevent odour, adding baking soda to the soaking water or using a vinegar rinse during the wash can help keep your pads fresh.

 

If you experience heavy flow or need reliable overnight protection, there are several features to consider when choosing the right cloth pads. Look for pads that are longer and wider, typically around 12 to 15 inches, to provide full coverage while lying down. Heavy-flow pads often include an extra absorbent core made from materials like hemp or bamboo, which helps increase their absorbency. Additionally, a waterproof backing made from PUL or fleece will provide leak protection during heavier flow days or overnight use.

 

For beginners, starting with cloth pads can feel intimidating, but it’s a good idea to ease into the transition gradually. Many brands offer starter kits that include different sizes and absorbencies so you can try them out and determine what works best for you. Experimenting with different fabrics such as bamboo, cotton, or flannel will also help you figure out what feels most comfortable against your skin. Beginning with cloth liners on lighter days or using them as a backup can help you get accustomed to the feel of cloth pads before making a full switch.

 

Occasionally, some issues like rashes, leaks, or stains may arise when using cloth pads. If you experience a rash or irritation, it may be due to the detergent you’re using. Switching to a hypoallergenic, fragrance-free detergent can help. Also, make sure that the pads you’re using are made from breathable fabrics like cotton or bamboo. Leaks can occur when the pad doesn’t absorb enough for your flow, so switching to pads with heavier absorbency or changing them more frequently may solve this issue. While stains are natural, pre-rinsing and proper washing can minimise them, and choosing dark or patterned fabrics can help hide any discolouration.

 

Switching to cloth pads is a sustainable and eco-friendly decision that offers comfort, customization, and long-term cost savings. Whether you decide to make your own cloth pads or choose from trusted brands, there are plenty of options available to ensure you find the perfect fit for your menstrual needs. With the right care and selection, cloth pads can become a key part of your zero-waste, healthy, and natural period routine.

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